From a dog saving a soccer goal to an NFL star’s heartwarming tribute for Memorial Day, viral sports moments capture the world’s imagination. But these micro-moments are more than awe-inspiring plays or entertaining antics — they help athletes and brands bridge the gap to new fans, build communities of team loyalty, and create lasting memories.
It’s no secret that athletes rely on social media to connect with their fans in real time, increase brand awareness and boost engagement. But while the internet can give lightning-fast fame, it also can damage an athlete’s reputation with a single mistake or embarrassing moment.
Whether it’s a heartwarming gesture or a bad choice, an athlete’s online legacy can have a huge impact on their career and their personal lives. And that’s why it’s important to teach kids about the power of social media — and how to make smart choices online.
From mascot shenanigans to unexpected dance-offs, there’s no shortage of humorous antics in the world of sport. These lighthearted moments are just as popular with fans as they are with players and the media, earning big search uplift (as seen in the search graph below) on platforms like TikTok and Instagram X.
While there were plenty of head-scratching moments at this year’s Olympics, Rachael Gunn’s breakdancing antics grabbed the most attention. Her bizarre routine left spectators and judges scratching their heads and late-night hosts with a field day of jokes. And, of course, there was Simone Biles’ mind-blowing double-pike vault that left even professional gymnasts speechless — and earned over 750 million views on TikTok to date.