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.
Gabby Thomas Redeems Olympic Gold, Fastest Woman Alive Struggles and More: Hungarian Athletics Grand Prix Recap
Gabby Thomas bounces back with 200m victory, while Julien Alfred, Mondo Duplantis, Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Ja’Kobe Tharp shine in Budapest.
Paraguayan Senator Mocks Kylian Mbappé Over France’s Exit After FIFA World Cup Controversy
Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla reignites feud with Kylian Mbappé, mocking France's World Cup exit after controversial racist remarks.
“Bit of a Relief”: Suni Lee’s Coach Reveals Strategy Behind Returning for LA Olympics
Jess Graba reveals why Suni Lee is back to gymnastics, her journey through illness, Olympic pressure, and her dream of another 2028 comeback.
Pat McAfee Gives Standing Ovation to Mikaela Shiffrin and Skiing Over Women’s Progress
Mikaela Shiffrin's impact on women's sports earns praise from Pat McAfee as they discuss skiing, growth and the future of female athletes.
Gabby Thomas Skips US Champs After Touring Around the World for 2026 Season
Olympic champion Gabby Thomas skips the U.S. Championships after a successful 2026 season that included victories across three continents.
Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey and More Olympians Lose Their Minds Over Suni Lee’s Return
Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey, and Olympic stars celebrate Suni Lee’s emotional gymnastics comeback after nearly 2 years away from competition.
“Lack of Words”: Athletes Speak Up After IOC Gutted their Chance of Ever Competing at the Olympics
Nordic combined athletes share heartbreak after IOC removes the sport from 2030 Olympics, ending dreams of future Olympic competition
“Too Much Pain”: Olympic Gymnast Forced to Withdraw From Euro Championship Due to Shoulder Injury
Two-time Olympian withdraws from European Championships trials due to a shoulder injury, ending hopes of another continental appearance
Massive Fire Damages $23 Million Olympic Venue Used Back in Athens 2004
A massive fire severely damages the Athens 2004 Olympic venue worth millions, leaving behind destruction at the historic badminton hall.
Megan Rapinoe Feels Argentina Isn’t Playing Well but Has a Key Reason for Winning at World Cup
Megan Rapinoe reflects on Argentina's dramatic World Cup victories, praising Lionel Messi's side for finding ways to win under pressure.
Visa Issues Forced Olympic Athlete Star to Miss NCAA Championships Amid Academic Trouble
Ella Onojuvwevwo missed the NCAA Championships after visa delays caused academic issues, ending her record-breaking LSU season unexpectedly.
Lindsey Vonn Shares Heartbreaking Note as Childhood Friend and US Skier Dies at 41
Lindsey Vonn mourns longtime friend TJ Lanning, sharing an emotional tribute after the former U.S. skier's death at 41.
