Basketball took off in 2024, taking centre stage on the global sports news calendar at key points of the year.

Al Jazira Sports and Cultural Club was created through the merger of Abu Dhabi’s al Bateen and khalidiya clubs in 1974. The club has since become a major influence in the sporting life of the UAE.

Sonu Vishwakarma represents India in the sport of pickleball [Manasi Pathak/Al Jazeera] “The long-term vision is the Olympics,” Prabhoo said. “If at all, pickleball can only be considered ...