Sports are an unparalleled vehicle for capturing, encapsulating and time-traveling human emotion. The thrill, the awe, the drama, the heartbreak, and the triumph-these moments don’t just change sports, they make an indelible mark on our culture. And while there are many different ways to go viral, some of the most memorable and impactful examples use a mix of humor, heartfelt anecdotes, or thought-provoking perspectives to capture our imaginations and reach millions.
For instance, a few days after the Dodgers won the World Series in 2021, Ringer columnist Brian Phillips perfectly nailed the Astros’ plan to signal their pitcher by banging on a trash can from the dugout. The gist is that the team’s “rickety-ass” scheme worked, and the defending champions will never be the same.
Or consider this moment from the 2004 NCAA Championship, as Syracuse basketball player Hakim Warrick lunges to block a shot by Kansas’ Jason Terry. The resulting video went viral and spawned thousands of memes. It was an image that summed up the desperation, determination and sheer heart of the Boeheim era.
And then there’s the story of Olympic shooter Ayhan Dikec, who made history with his gold medal performance in the mixed team 10-meter air pistol event despite wearing just a yellow hat and regular glasses instead of the high-tech shooting glasses worn by most competitors. It was a simple gesture, but one that reverberated across the globe, and is now synonymous with Dikec’s name.