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 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
“I’m Still Processing It”: American Cyclist Set for Rainbow Jersey Debut at Giro dell’Emilia
Brandon McNulty set to debut rainbow jersey at Giro dell’Emilia after overcoming setbacks and claiming his first elite world road title
Hezly Rivera Headlines U.S. Women’s Gymnastics Team for 2026 World Championships
Hezly Rivera finally earns her Worlds opportunity as a young U.S. gymnastics team prepares for a new chapter in Rotterdam.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic Calls Cristiano Ronaldo’s Camp Exit ‘Disrespectful’ as Portugal Moves on With New No. 7
Zlatan Ibrahimovic reportedly reacts to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal camp exit as Rafael Leão takes over the iconic No. 7 shirt.
Noah Lyles Shares Heartwarming Fanboy Moment With American Sprinting Legend
Noah Lyles shares a fanboy moment with Tyson Gay, revealing his admiration for the American sprinting legend and their special connection.
Cristiano Ronaldo Drama Costs Portugal Heavily as Instagram Followers Take a Major Hit
Portugal’s Instagram account faces reported follower exodus after Cristiano Ronaldo leaves national team camp amid growing fan backlash
Olympian Reveals Unexpected Childhood Moment That Confirmed Her Track and Field Career
Daryll Neita reveals the unexpected childhood moment her family first realized her natural speed could take her to the Olympic stage.
“Advocated for Myself”: Suni Lee Opens on Struggles With Doctors During Kidney Issues
Suni Lee details her experience with doctors during her kidney disease battle and explains why advocating for herself became essential.
Gymnast Who Beat Simone Biles for Olympic Gold Confirms Two Surgeries in Six Months
Olympic champion Alice D’Amato opens up about two shoulder surgeries in six months after her historic victory over Simone Biles in Paris.
Sha’Carri Richardson and Boyfriend Get Involved in Atlanta’s Decision for 50-State Torch Journey
Sha'Carri Richardson and Christian Coleman join Olympic figures in Atlanta as the city prepares to launch LA28's historic torch relay journey.
“Want to Start a Family”: Simone Biles on Baby Talk Amid Decision for LA Olympics
Simone Biles discusses motherhood, family plans and the physical demands of returning to gymnastics as she weighs competing at LA28.
