The World Sports Photography Awards 2025 brought the thrill of sport to life, celebrating the magic of capturing those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments. With over 13,000 jaw-dropping entries from 96 countries, the competition showcased an incredible array of talent. British photographers and athletes stood out from the crowd, proving once again that the UK knows how to steal the spotlight in the world of sports photography.
The Winning Image
Jerome Brouillet’s iconic photograph, “Golden Moment,” depicting Brazilian surfer Gabriel Medina at the 2024 Olympic Games in Teahupo’o, French Polynesia, took the top prize. The image masterfully encapsulates the emotion, athleticism, and spectacle that define the spirit of sports.
British Athletes in Focus
British triathlete Ruth Astle shone on the global stage, featured in Jack Schofield’s shortlisted photograph, “In the Shadow of the Palm Trees.” The image, capturing Astle during her rigorous training for the IRONMAN World Championships in Kona, Hawaii, is a testament to the dedication and resilience of British athletes.
British Photographer Among the Winners
The 2025 awards highlighted the exceptional achievements of a British photographer:
- Edward Whitaker, a renowned equestrian sports photographer, won with his evocative image, “Winter in Lambourn”, which captures the beauty and essence of the British countryside through an equestrian lens.
- Tom Weller, widely admired for his remarkable versatility and skill in capturing the spirit of sport, received well-deserved recognition for two outstanding shortlisted works. The first, “Double Gymnastics”, masterfully highlights the elegance, precision, and sheer physical strength of gymnasts in perfect harmony. The second, “Forehand”, captures the dynamic energy and intensity of tennis, showcasing the power and athleticism required to excel in the sport. Both images stand as a testament to Weller’s ability to bring the beauty and drama of athletic performance to life through his lens.
The Art of the Moment
The World Sports Photography Awards 2025 has once again proven that sports photography is not merely about capturing action; it’s about encapsulating the essence of human endeavour, the fleeting moments of triumph and despair, and the universal stories that transcend the boundaries of the playing field.
This year’s winners and finalists have showcased an extraordinary ability to freeze time, to turn the raw energy of athletic competition into timeless art. From the serene beauty of a diver’s plunge to the raw emotion of a victory celebration, these images remind us that sports are not just about the results but about the passion, perseverance, and humanity that drive athletes to push their limits.
The awards have highlighted the evolution of sports photography, where technological advancements have opened new avenues for creativity, allowing photographers to capture once unimaginable perspectives. Yet, amidst this technological revolution, the heart of sports photography remains the same: the ability to tell a story, evoke emotion, and to connect us with the athletes in a way that transcends language and culture.
In a world where sports are often reduced to statistics and scores, these photographs serve as a poignant reminder of the human element. They capture the sweat, the tears, the joy, and the agony, providing a visual narrative that resonates with fans and non-fans alike. They are not just images; they are windows into the soul of sports, revealing the dedication, the struggle, and the sheer beauty of athletic achievement.
As we celebrate these photographers, we also celebrate the athletes whose stories they tell. Each photograph is a testament to the power of sports to inspire, to unite, and to elevate the human spirit. The World Sports Photography Awards 2025 have not only recognized the technical prowess and artistic vision of these photographers but have also underscored the enduring legacy of sports photography in shaping our collective memory and cultural heritage.
