Olympics Writer
Maleeha Shakeel is a Senior Olympic Sports Writer at EssentiallySports, known for covering some of the biggest moments in global sport. From the World Athletics Championships 2023 to the Paris Olympics 2024 and the Winter Cup 2025, she has reported live on events that define sporting history. Her coverage has also been cited by Olympics.com on its official platform.
Whether breaking developments in real time, such as her widely-followed live blog on Jordan Chiles’ medal revocation, or crafting feature stories that explore the mental and emotional journeys of athletes, Maleehah’s work blends accuracy, clarity, and storytelling flair to resonate with fans worldwide.
As part of EssentiallySports’ Journalistic Excellence Program, an in-house initiative to hone advanced reporting, editorial strategy, and audience-focused writing, she has developed a distinct voice that focuses on people, pressure, and pivotal moments. From chronicling Sha’Carri Richardson’s sprints to capturing Letsile Tebogo’s rise, her reporting offers readers insight beyond the scoreboard.
Olympic Gold Medalist Dies at 60 After Making History for Soviet Gymnastics
1988 Olympic champion Vladimir Gogoladze dies at 60 after making history in Soviet gymnastics and inspiring future athletes.
Runner Dies Mid-Race After Suffering Medical Emergency Despite Life-Saving Efforts
A runner dies after suffering a medical emergency during American half marathon, following several similar fatalities earlier this year.
Former LSU Star Confirms Leaving America After Winning Multiple NCAA Honors
British 400m record holder Amber Anning returns home after seven years in America, beginning a new chapter ahead of LA28.
Two Unexpected ‘Bodyguards’ Make Simone Biles’ Viral Handshake With Jonathan Owens Possible at NFL London Game
Simone Biles shares a playful London game-day moment as two flag football stars jokingly step in as her unexpected security team.
US Runner Recounts How USADA Completely Caught Him Off Guard Before Training
Vinny Mauri recalls the moment USADA arrived at his Planet Fitness gym, where he was preparing for another demanding training session.
Denmark Rival Publicly Denies Supporting Cristiano Ronaldo in Portugal Coach’s Controversial Decision
Denmark striker Rasmus Højlund publicly denies viral Cristiano Ronaldo message after Portugal coach Jorge Jesus controversy unfolds
US Athlete Retires at 19 After Lower-Leg Amputation Following Traumatic Soccer Injury
A 19-year-old US soccer athlete retires after a traumatic leg injury led to amputation, ending his 13-year journey in soccer.
Gabby Thomas Takes a Step Outside Track and Field to Empower Girls to Pursue Sports
Gabby Thomas steps beyond track and field, using her voice and experience to empower more girls to discover their potential through sports
US Olympian Explains Being Sidelined From World Team After Return to Elite Gymnastics
US Olympian explains World Team snub after returning from a two-year break and competing against a new generation of young gymnastics talent
Mondo Duplantis Takes Track and Field Break for Injury Recovery Following Multiple Setbacks
Mondo Duplantis skips 2027 indoor season for injury recovery after rare setbacks as he sets sights on defending Olympic title at LA28
Olympic Champion Retires at 28 for a Surprising Career Switch
Olympic champion Claire Thompson retires from hockey at 28, choosing to return to medical school and pursue her long-held dream.
Champion Athlete Apologizes After Positive Drug Test Costs Him Historic Title and $40,000 in Prize Money
Stawell Gift champion loses historic title and $40,000 prize after positive drug test, later apologizing over the accidental violation
