Will this phenomenon persist into 2026, providing fans with even more reasons for celebration in the upcoming year? Only time will reveal the answer.
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The year 2025 has been heralded as a landmark year for underdogs, characterized by the breaking of long-standing championship droughts and remarkable upsets across global football, cricket, and more. Nations and teams, once in despair, reclaimed their glory, and this narrative celebrates these achievements. (Source: Reuters)
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No. 1 | After many near-misses, the Indian Women’s Team clinched their inaugural ICC Women’s ODI World Cup by overcoming South Africa in the final held in Navi Mumbai. (Image Source: Reuters)
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No. 2 | The Proteas concluded a 27-year-long wait for an ICC title by winning the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, effectively shedding their ‘chokers’ label with a resounding win over Australia in the final held in England. (Image Source: Reuters)
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No. 3 | After nearly two decades, RCB finally secured their first-ever IPL title in June 2025. It was a heartfelt moment for their large fanbase, culminating a near-flawless run under Rajat Patidar’s leadership, where every aspect came together perfectly. (Image Source: Reuters)
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No. 4 | The Oklahoma City Thunder claimed their first championship in 46 years, dating back to the Sonics era, while the Indiana Pacers reached the finals as the most unlikely contender since 1985 (+5000 odds). In a league featuring stars like Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant, the final showdown between Shai Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton was a treat for basketball purists. (Image Source: NBA)
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No. 5 | At 35, Rory McIlroy finally triumphed in a major championship, winning his first Masters Tournament in a tense playoff against Justin Rose. (Image Source: AP)
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The emergence of unexpected and lesser-known teams to the pinnacle of their realms was a consistent feature throughout 2025. Will this trend persist into 2026, offering fans even more reasons for celebration in the forthcoming year? Only time will determine. (Image Source: Reuters)
