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.
Simone Biles’ ESPY Look Loses Spotlight to Jonathan Owens’ Red Carpet Demeanor
Simone Biles dazzled at the 2026 ESPYs, but Jonathan Owens' serious expressions sparked fan reactions and renewed online debate.
Brutal Tour de France Crash Leads to Cyclist Losing Part of His Thumb
Chris Harper loses part of his thumb after a brutal Tour de France crash but remains positive despite a heartbreaking setback.
Olympian Skier Issues Statement as Influencer Dies Nineteen Days After Motorcycle Collision
Olympic skier Peter Runggaldier breaks silence after influencer Laura Härtig dies 19 days after honeymoon collision.
Olympic Committee Defends Russian Decision to Secure Funding Against Complaint from 9 Countries
IOC faces backlash from European countries after lifting ROC suspension while defending its decision and position on Russia’s return.
“Didn’t Really Get a Full Chance”: Suni Lee Focuses on Why LA 2028 Olympics Return Matters
After overcoming a career-threatening kidney disease, Suni Lee returns to gymnastics with unfinished Olympic goals and renewed motivation.
Major Last-Minute Withdrawals from London Diamond League as Olympic Medalists Back Out
Olympic stars Letsile Tebogo, Marco Arop and Georgia Hunter Bell withdraw as London Diamond League faces major last-minute changes.
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.
