At the close of 2023, The Roar is reflecting on the major sporting moments of the year in Australia and beyond. After much debate, they’ve compiled a list of 23 controversial moments. From tense sporting events to off-field scandals, there’s plenty to unpack. Readers are invited to share any missed moments in the comments.
Here are the top 23 controversial moments from 2023:
1. Bairstow’s dismissal by Alex Carey in a Test cricket match sparks debate.
2. Eddie Jones’s tumultuous return to coach the Wallabies results in a disappointing World Cup.
3. Controversy erupts in the AFL over a goal umpire’s mistake in a crucial match.
4. Canterbury Bulldogs’ NRL season takes a hit due to a player dispute.
5. Spain’s FIFA Women’s World Cup victory marred by a federation president’s inappropriate behavior.
6. A racial abuse claim during the Rugby World Cup final triggers outrage.
7. Brayden Maynard’s heavy bump on an opponent sparks conflict in the AFL.
8. Angelo Mathews dismissed timed out in a World Cup clash.
9. Wallabies’ players Michael Hopper and Quade Cooper sidelined from the World Cup squad.
10. Valentine Holmes’s photo with white powder causes controversy.
11. England’s strategic ball change leads to unexpected victory in the fifth Ashes Test.
12. Jon Rahm’s lucrative deal with LIV shakes up the PGA Tour.
13. Port Adelaide fined for concussion protocol breaches.
14. Wests Tigers board sacked following an independent review.
15. India’s pitch selection for a World Cup semi sparks questions about fairness.
16. VAR controversies in the English Premier League raise concerns about the technology’s impact on games.
17. Josh Addo-Carr’s involvement in a brawl at the Koori Knockout leads to repercussions.
18. Italian football scandal involving illegal betting tarnishes the sport’s reputation.
19. Novak Djokovic’s political message at the French Open causes a stir.
This list highlights the significant controversies that took place in the world of sports throughout 2023.