TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Sporty remain a captivating topic of conversation across all ages, genders and cultures. They inspire camaraderie and promote healthy lifestyles, with each sport showcasing its unique appeal through diverse rules and guidance.

Among the countless sports around the world, a few stand out for their passionate audiences. Football, in particular, reigns supreme as the world’s most popular sport, with around 4 billion fans.

10 most popular sports in the world

This article will break down most popular sport in the worldcited in Best diplomats And World Atlas.

1. Football / Soccer

Football, or soccer, tops the list of the world’s most popular sports, with around 4 billion fans. Played regularly by more than 240 million people, the sport captivates audiences with its thrilling international tournaments, such as the FIFA World Cup.

The sport is adopted by countless countries, including Brazil, England, and Mexico, due to its simple requirements. This accessibility allows everyone to participate, making it a popular sport in diverse communities.

2. Cricket

After football, cricket is another sport that plays an important role in global sports rankings. Originating in England at the end of the 16th century, the sport is today practiced by more than 100 nations. It is supported globally by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to promote and develop the sport.

With a fan base of over 2.5 billion, cricket’s appeal extends to countries like India, England and Australia, where it is not just a sport but of a passion. These countries have produced legendary players and cricket icons.

3. Hockey

Hockey is also one of the most practiced sports in the world. Attracted by more than 2 billion fans, the sport is particularly popular in countries such as Canada, European countries and the United States.

The sport was created in the 19th century and now features several variations of the game, including field hockey, street hockey, roller hockey, and ice hockey. With the Winter Olympics and World Championships, hockey has significantly increased its popularity.

4. Tennis

Tennis has grown in popularity since its origins in the 1900s. Accessible to all communities, tennis is one of the inclusive sports, attracting more than 87 million participants and 2 billion fans regardless of age and gender. With minimal equipment and no specialized training, tennis has earned a place on the sporting lists of 210 nations.

5. Volleyball

Historically, volleyball was invented by William G. Morgan in 1895 as a dynamic alternative to basketball, initially called “mintonette.” Today, it remains a favorite sport, celebrated for its inclusiveness and engaging gameplay, attracting over 900 million fans.

Ranked among the most popular sports in the world, volleyball relies on teamwork as the key to victory. Further enhancing the sport’s appeal, the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) currently has 211 member federations worldwide.

6. Table tennis

The 850 million fans explained why table tennis is one of the world’s favorite sports. The sport arouses charms that are both engaging and stimulating, allowing everyone to participate in the game. Increasingly popular around the world, table tennis has received special love from Europe and the Asia (China and Japan).

7. Basketball

Basketball is a global phenomenon, originating as simply a winter activity in 1891. The sport is experiencing strong growth, especially with high-impact leagues underscoring its popularity like the NBA. From street courts to international competitions, the sport has more than 800 million fans, making it one of the most popular sporting activities in the world.

8. Baseball

Cherished by more than 500 million fans, baseball carries a historic and nostalgic memory for people, often referred to as “America’s Pastime.” Born in the 18th century, the sport has continued to expand its reputation and has been adopted by many countries, including Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Japan, with prestigious leagues like Major League Baseball (MLB) boosting this passionate sport, the popularity of baseball resonates even more around the world.

9. Rugby

Rugby is a sport invented in England in the 19th century. The sport is highly regarded in the country for its exciting and challenging gameplay, as well as in several other countries. However, its global popularity is growing slowly due to a lack of investment and promotion. Despite this, it still attracts 475 million fans who are deeply passionate about this fun, exhilarating and power-packed sport.

10. Golf

Rounding out the list of the most popular sports in the world, golf has around 450 million fans. The sport’s emphasis on precision is evident when players cover small holes over long distances. Created in the 15th century in Scotland, golf is often associated with people with high incomes, but it can be played by people from all walks of life.

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