The 2020s in sports have been marked by some truly bizarre moments, many of which were influenced by the COVID pandemic.
From empty stadiums to cardboard fans, the sports world saw unprecedented changes during this era.
Let’s dive into some of the strangest events that have occurred so far.
Unforgettable Moments:
Rudy Gobert’s infamous microphone-touching incident in March 2020 stands out as a pivotal moment. He touched every mic at a press conference, mocking COVID concerns, only to test positive two days later. This led to the abrupt halt of many sporting events.
When sports resumed amidst COVID, things were odd. Stadiums had no real fansโjust cardboard cutoutsโand entire playoffs took place in “bubble” environments. It felt both necessary and eerie.
In another strange twist, the Ravens-Steelers game scheduled for Thanksgiving 2020 was moved multiple times due to COVID tests, finally happening on a Wednesday afternoon. The Ravens played without Lamar Jackson but still gave a tough fight before losing 19-14.
Fans might think these moments are surreal and unforgettable.
The Denver Broncos faced an unusual situation when all their quarterbacks were out due to COVID protocols. Kendall Hinton, a practice-squad wide receiver with some college quarterback experience, started against the Saints but struggled as expected.
During halftime of the Big East Tournament game between Creighton and St. John’s on March 12, 2020, officials abruptly canceled the tournament due to rising COVID concernsโleaving players and fans bewildered in Madison Square Garden.
Lamar Jacksonโs sudden dash off-field during a game against Cleveland Browns sparked rumors about an urgent bathroom break . Though he claimed it was cramps, many doubted his explanation.
NASCAR drivers turned to virtual racing using iRacing platforms during early pandemic months with surprisingly high viewership numbersโover a million tuned in for these digital races!
Jake Paulโs entry into boxing seemed like a publicity stunt initially; however, he has since built an impressive record (10-1) mostly against former MMA fighters while making significant earnings from his matches.
David Ayres lived every amateur hockey playerโs dream when he stepped in as an emergency goalie for Carolina Hurricanes mid-game after their main goalies got injuredโand won!
Roger Goodell hosted NFL Draft picks from his basement amid lockdownsโa surreal yet oddly successful event that humanized him somewhat despite its unconventional setting.
Bert Smith collapsed while officiating Elite Eight clash between Gonzaga & USC; subsequent medical checks revealed life-threatening blood clot which might’ve gone unnoticed otherwiseโturning scary incident into lifesaver moment!
A woman caused massive crash at Tour de France stage one by holding up homemade sign obliviously blocking cyclistsโ path resulting chaos ensued among peloton riders
Antonio Brown dramatically quit playing mid-game versus Jets following argument with coach Bruce Arians over alleged injury cover-up claims leading him never returning professional football thereafter…
Tommy Pham slapped Joc Pederson over fantasy football dispute during batting practice showcasing how intense trivial matters can get even among professional athletes
NHL had warm up ice literally during Winter Classic held under extreme cold conditions ensuring playable surface despite freezing temperatures (-8ยฐF)!
Kyler Murrayโs contract extension included controversial homework clause requiring independent study hours sparking widespread ridicule forcing Cardinals remove it eventually…
Patriots’ lateral blunder cost them game vs Raiders creating comedic yet tragic end highlighting even best-coached teams prone mistakes occasionally…
Aaron Rodgers’ peculiar behaviors ranging therapeutic vomiting ayahuasca retreats darkness isolation sessions made headlines frequently portraying him eccentric figure within sports realm…
Dallas Cowboysโ inexplicable Hail Mary attempt left everyone scratching heads wondering what they hoped achieve providing endless amusement haters alike
Nikola Jokic seemed indifferent towards basketball post winning NBA Championship focusing more personal pursuits reflecting burnout perhaps?
Erin Matson transitioned seamlessly from player coach leading North Carolina field hockey team another championship victory right after graduating demonstrating exceptional leadership skills early age!
Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce relationship brought new audience NFL games boosting ratings significantly thanks Swifties enthusiastic support blending pop culture seamlessly sporting events
Connor Stalionsโ sign-stealing scandal rocked college football involving elaborate schemes spy opponents ultimately resigning amidst controversy leaving lingering questions unresolved…
Women NCAA Tournament featured incorrect three-point line measurements unnoticed until fifth game played highlighting organizational oversight embarrassing proportions
Climate protesters disrupted Traveler’s Championship dumping powder green causing temporary chaos before officials recut hole ensuring fair playoff eventual winner Scottie Scheffler emerged victorious amidst drama unfolding final moments
