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 Refuses National Sports Role Shortly After Fellow Athlete’s Financial Complaints Emergeol
Two-time Olympic champion rejects South African sports leadership roles as fellow athlete raises financial concerns over federation support.
Track Silver Medalist’s Lawyer Considers Appeal to Reduce 22-Month Suspension for Whereabouts Failures
European silver medalist Auriana Lazraq-Khlass faces a 22-month suspension as her lawyer considers an appeal over whereabouts failures.
Goalkeeper Involved in Player’s Death Struggles to Return to Practice Amid Medical Support
FC Andorra goalkeeper struggles to return to training after Jesús de Miguel's death while receiving medical and psychological support.
USMNT Coach Announces Leaving Team in Tears to Join Manchester United
Mauricio Pochettino gets emotional while announcing his USMNT departure, with Manchester United set to become his next destination.
“Sabotaged Herself”: Swimming SA Operations Manager Hits Back at Tatjana Smith Despite Prize Money Admission
Swimming SA Operations Modutoane hits back at Tatjana Smith over sponsorship disputes as the federation admits mishandling her prize money.
Olympic Champion Hezly Rivera Explains LSU Choice While Headlining 2027 Recruiting Class
Hezly Rivera reflects on her college decision as LSU welcomes an impressive group of gymnasts for its 2027 season.
Josh Kerr Set for NYC Return as He Targets Long-Awaited Career First
Josh Kerr returns to New York for the 2027 Millrose Games, aiming to finally claim his first Wanamaker Mile title.
Legendary Broadcaster Dies Weeks After Celebrating Daughter’s Marathon Milestone
Dan Hicks celebrated his daughter’s Chicago Marathon achievement weeks before his sudden death at age 64, leaving fans heartbroken.
Masai Russell’s Sister Makes a Big Career Move to Join a Legendary Coach
Solai Russell commits to Kentucky, following Olympic champion sister Masai's footsteps to train under renowned coach Lonnie Greene.
ISU Seeks Clarification as Finland Moves to Deny Visas to Russian Athletes
Finland’s upcoming visa restrictions on Russian athletes have raised concerns over their participation in major figure skating events.
Amber Glenn Beats Ezra Frech on Dancing With the Stars Despite Toe Pain
Amber Glenn overcomes persistent toe pain to defeat Ezra Frech in the Dancing With the Stars quarterfinals dance-off.
Simone Biles Reveals Skin Condition That Took Years to Fix
Simone Biles opens up about her years-long battle with seborrheic dermatitis and the treatment that finally helped ease her symptoms.
