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.
Former Olympic Sprinter Swaps Track for Rugby After World Athletics Rules Affect Her Career
Former Olympic sprinter leaves athletics for rugby after World Athletics regulations affect her career and future on the track.
“Never Give Up”: Teen Refugee Athlete Targets LA28 After Youth Olympics Medal Hopes Fall Short
Refugee judoka Arno Yafunga sets his sights on LA28 after finishing fifth at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, inspired by his journey.
Olympian Puts Decathlon on Hold to Focus on Long Jump Ahead of LA28
Simon Ehammer puts his decathlon career on hold to focus on long jump as he chases Olympic gold at LA28 in 2028.
US Olympic Medalist Breaks Down in Tears After Defying Fourth ACL Tear to Win First Senior World Title
Spencer Lee wins his first Senior World Championship title despite a fourth ACL tear, breaking down in tears after years of injuries.
Teen Star Gymnast Forced to Take a Break Due to Foot Injury
16-year-old gymnast Elena Colas takes a break after a bone spur diagnosis, but her dream of competing at the 2028 Olympics remains alive.
Two-Time Olympian Dies at 34 Just Weeks After Her Wedding
Two-time Olympian Ciara Mageean dies aged 34, just weeks after marrying longtime partner Thomas Moran in Ireland.
Olympic Champion Promises to Stand by Partner’s Side Amidst Investigation Into Cycling Controversy
Emma Finucane vows to support partner Matthew Richardson as British Cycling investigates allegations of misconduct and discrimination.
Multiple Countries Respond to Controversial CAS Decision on Russia’s Return to International Hockey
Multiple countries react to the CAS ruling on Russia's possible return to international hockey, with federations expressing differing views.
“Deep Feeling of Guilt”: Track Legend Allyson Felix Shares Honest Emotions Behind Olympic Return
Allyson Felix opens up about feeling guilty over her ambitious Olympic comeback at 40 and explains what motivated her return to track
“No One Remembers”: Ex-US Runner Lays Out Harsh Truth About Doping Ban Ahead of NYC Race
Dathan Ritzenhein explains how doping bans affect clean athletes, costing them podium moments, recognition, and career opportunities.
Track Agent Representing Kenyan Athletes Calls Out WADA Over Anti-Doping Rules
Athletics Kenya athletes' representative calls for major changes to the WADA Code, questioning whether the current anti-doping system is working.
20-Year-Old Prodigy Becomes World Champion Without Stepping in an NCAA Match
At 20, Bo Bassett wins the Senior World Championship, making history by claiming freestyle gold before wrestling his first NCAA match.
