Good morning.

Before we get to our 2024 sports recap, we want to acknowledge the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, who died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia, at the age of 100. Carter was the country’s longest-living president and served a single term in office. As the 39th US president, the Georgia Democrat brokered a historic peace deal between Israel and Egypt, signed the Panama Canal Treaties, and normalized diplomatic relations with China. However, he was unable to win a second term due to rising inflation, soaring energy costs, and his administration’s handling of the Iranian hostage crisis. After leaving office, Carter spent years advocating for public health, conflict resolution, and democracy abroad. His efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Carter died nearly two years after entering hospice care for multiple health issues and just a year after losing his wife, Rosalynn, who was 96. In a statement, Chip Carter said his father was “a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love.” You can read more about Carter’s life, work, and legacy here.

In the rest of today’s newsletter, we’re recapping a standout year in sports. From the Olympics to Caitlin Clark’s electrifying performances, WNBA fever, and a record 15 female coaches in the NFL, 2024 was a slam dunk for women’s sports, athletes, and coaches alike. Let’s get into it. 

— The Editors