When the 2023 BBC Sports Personality of the Year shortlist came out last month, a teaser began doing the rounds. Which of the six names was the odd one out? The answer: Katarina Johnson-Thompson. Because while she became world champion, no one else on the list – Mary Earps, Stuart Broad, Frankie Dettori, Rory McIlroy and Alfie Hewett – actually won the biggest event on their calendars.
Harsh? Undoubtedly. Especially given that England’s women reached the final of the World Cup, Broad retired after a thrilling Ashes, and the others enjoyed spectacular moments too. Yet it did reflect a broader truth: last year was a fine year for British sport, but not a vintage one.
