In 2021, sports leagues faced various challenges, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the decisions they had to make regarding the presence of fans at events. The new year is expected to be a bit more normal, but the pandemic is still likely to impact athletes’ playing statuses.
To help plan your coverage for the rest of 2022, here is a sports calendar that includes some of the significant events that will be happening in the world of professional sports.
U.S. Open
The U.S. Open is a prestigious tournament held in New York City. The event is set to premiere August 29th and end on September 11th. It’s the fourth Grand Slam event of the year and the last major tournament of the year. Many of the world’s top players have been struggling with injuries this year. According to Kurt Streeter of the New York Times, there’s a silver lining in the sport’s newfound uncertainty. It’s easier to get excited about a broader range of players now that the stars are no longer the main attractions.
U.S. Grand Prix (Formula 1)
During the pandemic, viewers could catch up with Formula 1 through Netflix’s Drive to Survive. This year, the racing series will hold its usual US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas from October 21-23, but it will also feature the inaugural Miami Grand Prix from May 6-8.
World Series
The 2022 Major League Baseball season is off to a rocky start following the announcement of a lockout by commissioner Rob Manfred in December 2021. There’s been no progress in the negotiations since January, and it’s not expected that the first substantive talks will lead to positive results. Despite the uncertainty, sports outlets will likely make their predictions for the World Series and aim for October.
FIFA World Cup
The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar from November 21-December 17 is expected to be the first major sporting event that’s been opened to the public since the pandemic began. Tickets for the event went on sale last week, and residents of the country will receive special pricing. However, it’s also expected to be a controversial event due to various human rights issues. A report released by Amnesty International last year criticized the country’s anti-gay laws and migrant worker exploitation.
NCAA Football Bowl Games
Although many college football fans are still celebrating the victory of Georgia over Alabama in the national championship game, it’s already time to start preparing for the upcoming season. Some teams expected to be in the running for the title include Oklahoma, Texas A&M, and Ohio State. The NCAA Football Bowl Games championship game will be held in Los Angeles on January 9, 2023.