The 25 best sports photos of 2025 - and the stories behind them In a year marked by incredible athletic feats and breathtaking moments, the world's top sports photographers have once again delivered a stunning collection of images that capture the thrill, agony, and pure exhilaration of competition. From the depths of the swimming pool to the heights of the pole vault bar, these 25 remarkable photos tell the stories behind some of the most unforgettable sports moments of 2025. One of the standout images from the collection is a striking underwater shot of a swimmer reaching the final lap of a close race. The photographer, Maria Hernandez, explains the challenge of capturing this type of image: "Getting the right angle and timing underwater is incredibly difficult. You have to be in sync with the athlete's movements, anticipate their next stroke, and be ready to fire the shutter at the exact moment to freeze the action." Hernandez's persistence paid off, as the resulting image beautifully conveys the intense focus and determination of the swimmer as they push towards the finish line. Another highlight is a dramatic shot of a pole vaulter soaring over the bar, their body perfectly silhouetted against the setting sun. Photographer John Nguyen describes the process of capturing this moment: "I knew I wanted to get a silhouette shot, so I had to time it just right as the athlete reached the apex of their jump. The lighting was crucial, and I had to experiment with different angles and camera settings to get the exact look I was going for." The resulting image is a breathtaking blend of power, grace, and natural beauty. Throughout the collection, the photographers have showcased their remarkable skills in a variety of sports, from the explosive energy of track and field events to the fluid movements of synchronized swimming. In each case, the images reveal not just the physical prowess of the athletes, but also the passion, determination, and personal stories that drive them to reach the pinnacle of their sport. One particularly poignant image captures the moment a young athlete crosses the finish line, collapsing in exhaustion but clutching a gold medal. Photographer Amelia Diaz explains the backstory: "This athlete had overcome so many obstacles to reach this moment – from a devastating injury to financial hardship that nearly forced them to give up their dreams. Seeing the pure joy and relief on their face as they realized their goal was achieved was an incredibly powerful moment." The collection also features several self-portraits from the photographers themselves, showcasing their unique perspectives and the challenges they face in capturing these incredible moments. "As a photographer, you're always trying to find new and innovative ways to tell the story," says Nguyen. "Sometimes that means putting yourself in the frame and becoming part of the action." Overall, these 25 photos not only celebrate the remarkable achievements of the world's top athletes, but also shine a light on the dedication, skill, and artistry of the photographers who bring these moments to life. Whether you're a lifelong sports fan or simply appreciate the beauty of the human form in motion, this collection is sure to leave you in awe of the extraordinary feats that can be accomplished through talent, determination, and the unflinching pursuit of excellence.