Sporting events have an awesome power to mesmerize audiences across the world. From the roar of the crowd to the feeling of success, these spectacles are some of the most watched events ever. Here, we’ll take a look at the most watched sporting events and why they’re so popular.
The Super Bowl holds the record for most watched. There’s high-stakes football, extravagant halftime shows, and millions of viewers every year. Seeing top teams battle it out on the biggest stage makes it a true cultural phenomenon.
The FIFA World Cup is another event that grabs global attention. It brings nations together, sparking national pride and fierce competition. Goals, upsets, and amazing athletic talent all come together to make it an unforgettable experience.
The Olympics is another individual competition that attracts many viewers. Every four years, athletes from all disciplines compete for glory and national pride. Watching them push their physical limits and achieve greatness is inspirational.
Most watched sporting events of all time
To discover the most watched sporting events of all time, explore the world of athletic spectacles like the Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup, Olympic Games, UEFA Champions League Final, Tour de France, NBA Finals, Wimbledon, UEFA European Championship Final, Cricket World Cup, and Rugby World Cup Final. These events have captivated audiences worldwide, making them hard to forget.
Super Bowl
The Super Bowl is the peak of sporting events, catching the attention of millions of viewers around the world. Each year, the National Football League’s championship game blends together the excitement of football, amazing halftime shows, and memorable commercials.
To get an understanding of its incredible popularity, let’s dive into some amazing numbers associated with the Super Bowl. Here’s a summary of the most-watched Super Bowls:
Year | Teams | Viewers (in millions) |
2015 | New England Patriots vs Seattle Seahawks | 114.4 |
2014 | Seattle Seahawks vs Denver Broncos | 112.2 |
2020 | Kansas City Chiefs vs San Francisco 49ers | 99.9 |
As you can see, these numbers prove the Super Bowl’s huge reach and appeal amongst audiences in the USA and beyond. Not only is it a fight for football greatness, it’s also become a celebrated cultural event that brings people together.
Although TV ratings illustrate its fame, we must also recognize the great income generated by advertisements during the Super Bowl. Companies are eager to get commercial slots during this special event because of its remarkable viewership and potential effect.
From electrifying last-minute plays to remarkable performances by popular artists during halftime, it’s no surprise that missing the Super Bowl can make someone feel distanced from a collective cultural experience. So, remember to make a note and join in the excitement when the next Super Bowl arrives!
FIFA World Cup
The FIFA World Cup is an astonishing event! It’s a century-old global tournament that unites nations through football. Here are some interesting facts about it:
- Year: 1930
- Host Country: Uruguay
- Winner: Uruguay
- Runners-up: Argentina
- Viewership (in millions): 270
- Year: 2018
- Host Country: Russia
- Winner: France
- Runners-up: Croatia
- Viewership (in billions): 3.572
Did you know the first World Cup was in Uruguay, with 270 million people tuning in? Fast forward to 2018 in Russia, where France won after a thrilling final and 3.572 billion viewers!
The FIFA World Cup is an event like no other. Don’t miss out on this incredible tournament of electrifying moments and unforgettable memories. Join millions across the globe as they come together to experience the sheer joy and passion of football – don’t fear missing out!
Olympic Games
The Olympic Games, an esteemed worldwide sporting event, has seen some of the most remarkable moments in sports history. This international multi-sport event brings together athletes from around the world to compete and display their athleticism.
Take a peek into some of the most-watched editions of the Olympic Games:
Year | Host City | Average TV Viewers (Millions) |
2016 | Rio de Janeiro | 3.6 |
2008 | Beijing | 4.7 |
2004 | Athens | 3.9 |
2000 | Sydney | 3.7 |
1996 | Atlanta | 3.5 |
The Olympic Games always mesmerize spectators worldwide with its amazing array of talent and competitive spirit. Every edition is renowned for its remarkable performances, extraordinary upsets, and inspirational stories of success against the odds.
To boost the viewing experience, here are some ideas:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Offer thorough coverage across multiple platforms, including live streaming, to suit the varied tastes of viewers.
- Athlete Profiles: Introduce personal accounts and behind-the-scenes insights to create an emotional bond between athletes and viewers.
- Enhanced Commentary: Employ knowledgeable commentators who can provide insightful analysis and entertaining commentary to upgrade the understanding and enjoyment of the games.
- Innovative Camera Angles: Test out unique camera angles and technologies such as drones or on-body cameras to give viewers new perspectives and a more immersive experience.
By using these tips, broadcasters can further elevate the thrill around the Olympic Games while making sure that this prestigious event continues to captivate audiences all over the world.
UEFA Champions League Final
The UEFA Champions League Final is a prestigious football event. It gathers the best teams from across Europe, captivating millions of fans with its intensity.
The competition has a long legacy and has seen many iconic clubs like Real Madrid and Bayern Munich reach the final. It’s more than just a game – it’s a cultural phenomenon that unites nations in support of their teams.
The finale brings extraordinary displays of skill, thrilling moments, and nail-biting suspense. Spectators can look forward to incredible goals, mesmerizing dribbles, and heart-stopping penalty shootouts.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event that celebrates competition, camaraderie, and triumph. Join the millions of passionate fans around the world and witness history in the making!
Tour de France
The renowned Tour de France captures audiences globally for decades. This iconic event displays the strength, skill, and tenacity of professional cyclists as they ride through the gorgeous scenery of France.
Athletes from across the world congregate for the Tour de France. The race is a 3-week journey of 3,500 km, including flat sprints, mountainous ascents, and individual time trials. Its history dates back to 1903, and has become a symbol of strength and excellence in cycling.
Let’s take a look at some facts about the Tour de France:
Year | Winner | Distance (in km) |
1903 | Maurice Garin | 2,428 |
1910 | Octave Lapize | 4,734 |
1921 | Lรฉon Scieur | 5,453 |
Every year provides fresh tales of success and difficulty in this rigorous competition. Riders form partnerships with teammates to get strategic advantages while fighting bad weather and tough terrains. The pursuit of success makes unforgettable moments in sports history.
NBA Finals
The NBA Finals is the championship series of the National Basketball Association. It’s the season finale that all basketball fans wait for – the top two teams battle it out for the title.
Here are some stats from a few of the most memorable NBA Finals:
- 2021: Milwaukee Bucks – Champions; Phoenix Suns – Runner-Up.
- 2020: Los Angeles Lakers – Champions; Miami Heat – Runner-Up.
- 2019: Toronto Raptors – Champions; Golden State Warriors – Runner-Up.
Notable players such as Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and LeBron James have shown their stuff in the NBA Finals. It’s no surprise that the games draw in viewers from all over the world.
Wimbledon
Wimbledon stands out as the symbol of excellence and tradition in the world of sports. Located in the centre of London, this prestigious tournament is synonymous with tennis brilliance. Let’s delve into its mesmerizing world!
Wimbledon boasts a captivating blend of history, talent and passion. Fascinating stats include: 2019’s Men’s Champion Novak Djokovic and Women’s Champion Simona Halep, both with an attendance of 520,000. 2018 saw Novak Djokovic and Angelique Kerber with 473,372 attendees, and 2017 had Roger Federer and Garbiรฑe Muguruza with the same attendance.
The tournament is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and adherence to tradition. The grass courts, all-white dress code and signature strawberries & cream are just some of Wimbledon’s highlights.
If you’re lucky enough to witness it, you’ll experience an undeniable thrill in the air. The roaring crowds and exhilarating matches create a palpable energy that can hardly be matched.
Secure your spot in history and join us in celebrating Wimbledon champions past and present. Get ready for the UEFA European Championship Final and the excitement that only tennis at its finest can provide.
UEFA European Championship Final
The UEFA European Championship Final is one of the most awaited sports occasions on the planet. It’s the end result of a month-long competition that brings together Europe’s best national teams. Millions of supporters around the globe watch the final match, displaying exceptional football talent and serious rivalry.
Here are some important facts about the UEFA European Championship Final:
- Date: Usually held in June or July, it brings an exciting finish to the tournament.
- Venue: Every edition has a different host country.
- Teams: Two teams compete for the title, representing their nations with pride.
- Viewership: The final entices an immense worldwide audience, with millions tuning in.
- Excitement: The stadium atmosphere reaches fever pitch during the final, with excitement that can be felt through TV too.
In 2004, Greece created a historic moment at the UEFA European Championship Final. They went in as underdogs but shocked everyone by making it to the final against all odds. After an intense clash with Portugal, Greece won 1-0. This unexpected victory demonstrated that anything is possible in football, and added to the charm of this remarkable event.
Ultimately, the UEFA European Championship Final mesmerizes sports lovers everywhere, continuously being a remarkable showcase of skill, enthusiasm, and national pride.
Cricket World Cup
The Cricket World Cup is a much-awaited sporting event! It brings together some of the best cricket teams from around the world. Here are some interesting facts about it:
Year | Host Nation | Winner |
1975 | England | West Indies |
1979 | England | West Indies |
1983 | England | India |
Since 1975, the Cricket World Cup has had some amazing matches and moments. From underdog wins to close finishes, this tournament always captivates cricket fans around the world!
One thing that sets the Cricket World Cup apart is the pride of each nation. Fans come together to cheer on their teams with passion. The atmosphere is electric – filled with chants, costumes, and flags.
To make the most of your experience, here are a few tips:
- Stay informed: Follow news, team announcements, and expert analysis before the tournament. This will help you understand each team’s strategy.
- Organize watch parties: Get your cricket mates together and create an amazing atmosphere with flags, jerseys, and props.
- Have prediction contests: Make things more fun by predicting who will win each match.
- Catch up on missed matches: Watch on-demand highlights online or through sports channels to savor the best moments.
Follow these tips and get ready for a thrilling tournament full of athleticism and excitement! Don your jerseys, rally your friends, and prepare for an unforgettable experience.
Rugby World Cup Final
The Rugby World Cup Final is a much-awaited event, showcasing the best of rugby on a global scale. Spectators enjoy passionate rivalries between different nations’ athletes – drawing in a huge viewership and captivating fans worldwide.
Let’s examine some stats!
Year | Teams | Venue | Viewership (in millions)
———–|—————————–|———————-|————————-
2019 | England vs South Africa | Yokohama, Japan | 57.15
2015 | New Zealand vs Australia | Twickenham, England | 120.85
2011 | New Zealand vs France | Eden Park, New Zealand| 88.56
2007 | South Africa vs England | Stade de France, France | 60.45
The Rugby World Cup Final has seen moments that will stay etched in our memories forever. Players give electric performances and the competition is intense – making it part of sporting lore.
An interesting fact? The highest recorded viewership was for the 2015 final between New Zealand and Australia, with an incredible 120.85 million people watching worldwide.
The Rugby World Cup Final gives us a chance to witness sporting greatness. From thrilling moments to stunning displays of skill – it remains a source of fascination for people across nations.
Factors contributing to viewership? A subject of much debate, but let’s face it – if watching sports was a crime, most of us would be serving life sentences!
Factors contributing to viewership
To understand the factors contributing to the viewership of sporting events, delve into the global popularity of the sport, its historical significance, the competitiveness of matches, the star athletes and teams involved, as well as the impact of media coverage and broadcasting. Explore how these elements shape the allure of the most watched sporting events.
Global popularity of the sport
This sport has become a worldwide favorite, loved by millions of people. Let’s explore what makes it so popular!
Accessibility is key. You don’t need special equipment or facilities; anyone can join in. Plus, its fast-paced action, thrilling competition, and unpredictable nature make it exciting.
The sport also has international appeal. Fans can connect with their favorite players, no matter where they are from.
Finally, tech advancements have helped drive viewership. Live streaming, social media, and digital content make it easier to follow teams and players from anywhere.
These are just some of the factors that contribute to the global popularity of this amazing sport. Its mix of accessibility, excitement, international appeal, and technology create a force that can’t be ignored.
Historical significance
Time’s impact can be seen through the lens of historical significance. Events of historical importance possess the power to captivate audiences. Such events give a unique peek into the past, helping viewers to develop a deeper understanding of their world. By examining key moments and uncovering their relevance, viewers become engrossed in content that explores these enthralling stories.
Historical significance also connects people across generations. As viewers learn of narratives from different eras, they feel a connection to those who came before them. This shared human experience motivates them to seek out media that reveals untold stories of the past.
Furthermore, historical significance adds to the authenticity and credibility of the content. Viewers are likely to be drawn to narratives based on real events and accurate portrayals of historical context. From docuseries depicting centuries-old conflicts to period dramas recreating bygone eras, authenticity adds to viewership.
Moreover, viewing historical events on screen can evoke powerful emotional responses in audiences. History encompasses triumphs, tragedies, and much more. By exploring these emotions through media such as film or television, viewers become emotionally invested in the narrative.
Research has shown that historical programming has always been popular. A study from Nielsen Media Research showed that historical documentaries have consistently ranked among the top-rated programs on various networks. The charm of history continues to fascinate audiences worldwide.
Competitive and intense matches
Competitive matches bring out the thrill, anticipation, and intrigue. Spectators witness the fierce competition, showcasing the skills of players. Intense matches feature dramatic comebacks, adding suspense and captivating viewers. The pressure and intensity bring out the best in athletes, resulting in breathtaking displays of talent.
These competitive matchups serve as a breeding ground for unforgettable moments. Goals, buzzer-beating shots, and epic final set tie-breakers add depth to the viewing experience. Viewers eagerly await the next exhilarating match-up and organizers can promote behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive interviews with players. This gives viewers a deeper understanding of the game and creates a personal connection with the athletes.
Star athletes and teams
Data shows us the vast following that star athletes and teams have. LeBron James, Barcelona FC, and Serena Williams have achieved fame due to their exceptional skills, their success, and global reach. Their fame influences popular culture, making them household names. Fans are eager to watch their stars defy limits and achieve greatness.
A few years ago, during the NBA finals, young Ethan watched with wide eyes. He saw LeBron James lead his team to victory. Ethan became an ardent fan of basketball and followed every move of his idol. This shows the influence of beloved figures on viewers’ attention. They make a huge impact on viewership figures.
Media coverage and broadcasting
Quality content is key to successful media coverage and broadcasting. It should be engaging and relevant to the target audience:
- Wide reach is also important; it should be available on various platforms such as TV, radio, social media and online streaming.
- Timing also matters – it should be strategic to maximize viewership.
- Expert analysis and visuals like graphics, videos, and storytelling can make a program or event more interesting.
- Interactive elements like live chats, polls and Q&A’s can make viewers feel more involved.
- Media coverage and broadcasting should also be informative, professional, unbiased and credible.
During an international football tournament, two teams clashed in a highly anticipated match. Media coverage included in-depth analysis of the players’ strengths and weaknesses, expert predictions, and interviews with key figures. The broadcasting was top-notch with multiple camera angles, instant replays, and commentary from renowned sports analysts. The result? Immense viewership from both teams’ fans and casual viewers – all attracted by the intense rivalry and excitement.
Total viewership
Viewership numbers play a big part in the success of any content. It’s the total number of people who have watched a program, movie or event. This gives us great insights into audience engagement, and helps measure the impact of the content.
To make sure your content is engaging, you need to understand your target audience and create offerings tailored to their interests. Do some thorough market research and look at viewer preferences.
Get creative with marketing too. Use social media, influencers and digital advertising campaigns to reach more people. Invest in high-quality production values and storytelling techniques to keep viewers coming back. Word-of-mouth promotion can help increase viewership numbers too.
By always listening to viewer feedback and adapting to trends, you can attract more audiences and stay successful in the competitive media landscape. As new programs become popular, the total viewership figures will change.
By focusing on audience engagement and refining your offerings, you can get higher viewership numbers and keep viewers entertained. Average viewers per event: We all know it’s not about the quality of the show, it’s about how many people can’t find the remote!
Average viewers per event
Viewership numbers are key to any event’s success. Knowing the average number of viewers helps understand the reach and impact. Let’s take a look at a table of viewership numbers for different events:
Event Category | Average Viewers |
Sports | 2 million |
Conferences | 500,000 |
Music Concerts | 1.5 million |
Award Shows | 3 million |
Here’s something special we haven’t mentioned yet. Award shows draw the biggest crowd of 3 million, showing how much people love them.
Don’t miss out on these captivating experiences! Tune in and feel the excitement and anticipation with millions around the world. Join the moments that capture hearts and minds!
Regional and international viewership
The following table highlights the viewership of a popular television series in different countries.
Country | Viewership (in millions) |
United States | 10 |
United Kingdom | 6 |
Australia | 3 |
Germany | 2 |
Brazil | 4 |
These stats illustrate the show’s global appeal. The US takes the lead with 10 million viewers, followed closely by the UK with 6 million. Australia, Germany, and Brazil also contribute notable viewership figures.
What makes these numbers even more eye-opening is the insight they provide on audience preferences. For instance, high viewership in non-English speaking countries like Germany and Brazil shows that language may not be a barrier when it comes to engaging content.
Importance of advertising and sponsorship
To understand the importance of advertising and sponsorship in the realm of the most watched sporting events of all time, explore how the cost of advertisements during these events, their attractiveness for sponsors, and the revenue generation potential contribute to their significance.
Cost of advertisements during sporting events
Advertising during sports events is a vital aspect that should not be ignored. Companies spend tons of cash to advertise their products or services in front of a large crowd. This helps them reach potential customers and make their brand more visible.
Let’s take a closer look at the cost of ads during sports events. Here’s a table with the expenses related to different types of ads:
Type of Ad | Cost Range |
---|---|
Television | $500,000 – $5,000,000 |
Radio | $10,000 – $200,000 |
Stadium Signage | $10,000 – $500,000 |
Online | $1,000 – $100,000 |
$5,000 – $50,000 | |
Social Media | $2,000 – $50,000 |
This table has various columns highlighting different aspects connected to the cost of advertising during sporting events. The first column is the type of advertisement, and the rest have the associated costs. The data reflects real figures that show how much money is required for effective marketing during sports events.
Remember, the prices in the table can vary depending on factors such as the event popularity, time slot, and duration of the ad. So, when advertisers try to get prime slots during big sports tournaments or championships, costs can go through the roof.
To emphasize how important these costs are, here’s an interesting story: Company XYZ advertised their new product during a major international football match. They invested a lot in a prime time slot, hoping for amazing returns. Amazingly, their sales tripled within a week after millions saw their captivating ad. This shows how investing in advertising during sports events can give great results and help businesses grow.
Attractiveness for sponsors
Advertising and sponsorship have a big importance for businesses to bring in sponsors. Here’s why they find it appealing:
- Sponsors go for advertising and sponsorship as it allows them to reach a broader public. By linking up with an event or organization, sponsors can market their brand to potential patrons who may not have known about their goods or services.
- Another great point is the chance for sponsors to attach themselves to a positive image. By linking their name with a famed event or organization, sponsors can boost their reputation and construct trust among consumers.
- Moreover, advertising and sponsorship offer sponsors the occasion to connect directly with their target market. They can communicate with customers through various channels such as social media campaigns, product shows, or exclusive offers.
- In addition, sponsors enjoy the visibility that comes with advertising and sponsorship. Their brand logo or name is prominently featured in promotional items, on signs at events, or even on merchandise. This higher exposure leads to larger brand recognition and recall among customers.
- Lastly, advertising and sponsorship provide a great return on investment for sponsors. By investing in these strategies, sponsors can anticipate increased sales, customer allegiance, and overall business growth.
What makes advertising and sponsorship even more attractive is the capacity to tailor campaigns depending on particular demographics, interests or values of the target audience.
The Association of National Advertisers (ANA) conducted a survey in 2020, and 85% of participants said they found advertising and sponsorship effective in achieving their marketing aims.
These impressive statistics back up its influence on sponsor attraction and brand success stories across industries like sports events and music festivals highlight the importance of this strategy.
Revenue generation
Advertising and sponsorship can have an impact on revenue generation. Let’s take a closer look at the data:
Advertising | Sponsorship |
Cost-effective | Brand visibility |
Targeted reach | Customer loyalty |
Increased brand awareness | Financial support |
Revenue from ad sales | Exclusivity opportunities |
Advertising means promoting products or services across various platforms. It is cost-effective and reaches a specific target audience. It also helps build brand visibility and attract potential customers.
On the other hand, sponsorship allows businesses to align with events or organizations sharing the same values or interests. This leads to increased brand awareness and customer loyalty. Plus, sponsors often provide financial support which contributes to revenue generation.
For best results, analyze your target audience and select platforms or events that match your brand image and objectives. This will maximize your investments in advertising and sponsorship.
Impact on host countries and cities
To understand the impact on host countries and cities when hosting the most watched sporting events of all time, delve into the economic benefits, infrastructure development, and tourism and international exposure. Explore the positive outcomes these events bring, both in terms of financial gain and the lasting legacy on the city’s infrastructure and global recognition.
Economic benefits
Tourism can be a major source of economic gain for host countries and cities. Visitors bring in revenue from various sources, including accommodation, transportation, and food services. This boosts tourism spending, creating job opportunities and income for locals.
Hosting international events, like conferences or sports tournaments, can have big economic benefits. These events draw people from all over the world, leading to increased spending on hotels, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. Additionally, investing in infrastructure improvements to accommodate these events can lead to long-term economic growth by boosting the city’s appeal.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) is essential for shaping the economic landscape of host countries and cities. When businesses decide to invest in a certain location, it creates employment opportunities and stimulates economic activities. FDI not only brings in capital, but also encourages knowledge transfer through technological advancements, aiding sustainable economic growth.
Proper management of economic benefits is necessary to ensure their maximum impact. Governments should prioritize investments that support long-term sustainability, such as infrastructure improvements to support both tourism and business activities. Moreover, fostering an environment favorable to entrepreneurship and innovation can attract more investors and create a diversified economy. Hosting a major event can transform a city’s infrastructure quickly.
Infrastructure development
Infrastructure development has a positive impact on host countries and cities. Roads improve connectivity for goods and people, bridges enhance accessibility, and power plants provide reliable electricity. Water supply systems ensure access to clean water and telecom networks create efficient communication.
It’s worth noting that these are only a few benefits. Infrastructure development also creates jobs, attracts investments, and boosts region competitiveness.
A report by Oxford Economics states that global infrastructure investments will reach $94 trillion by 2040. This confirms the importance of infrastructure development for future economic growth.
Tourism and international exposure
Tourism plays a vital role in transforming the international outlook of host countries and cities. It’s a platform for cultural exchange, which encourages understanding between people of diverse backgrounds. Tourists bring their own customs, values, and traditions to different destinations, giving locals a chance to discover new cultures and broaden their horizons.
Plus, tourism stimulates economic growth. It creates job prospects and boosts local businesses. The influx of tourists boosts demand for services such as accommodation, transportation, restaurants, and entertainment. Local entrepreneurs can take advantage of this by providing goods and services that meet the needs of visitors. This leads to economic development and improved living standards for locals.
What’s more, the presence of international tourists has a positive effect on the preservation of heritage sites and natural landscapes. Host countries often invest in the upkeep and renovation of these attractions to attract more visitors. This helps protect cultural landmarks and encourages sustainable tourism practices that value environmental conservation.
To make the most of tourism and international exposure, host countries can take certain measures.
- They should focus on building infrastructure that can accommodate more tourists without compromising sustainability. Efficient transportation networks and well-maintained facilities are necessary to create a positive experience for visitors.
- Host countries can promote intercultural exchanges by organizing events that celebrate their own culture while highlighting diversity. Cultural festivals or exhibitions can be held where both locals and tourists can experience different traditions first-hand.
Lastly, governments should invest in raising awareness of lesser-known destinations within their country. This will help spread out tourism revenue among different regions and stop over-tourism in popular destinations. By highlighting unique attractions off the beaten track, host countries can attract more visitors while ensuring sustainable growth.
FAQs
What is the most-watched sporting event of all time?
The most-watched sporting event of all time is the FIFA World Cup, with an estimated 3.5 billion viewers tuning in to the 2018 tournament.
How many people watched the Super Bowl in 2019?
An estimated 98.2 million people watched the Super Bowl in 2019, making it one of the most-watched sporting events in the United States.
What is the most-watched sporting event in the United States?
The Super Bowl is the most-watched sporting event in the United States, with millions of viewers tuning in every year to watch the game and the halftime show.
How many people watched the Olympic Games in Rio?
An estimated 3.6 billion people watched the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, making it one of the most-watched sporting events of all time.
What is the most-watched sporting event in Europe?
The UEFA Champions League final is one of the most-watched sporting events in Europe, with an estimated 380 million viewers tuning in to watch the 2019 final between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.
How many people watched the NBA Finals in 2020?
The 2020 NBA Finals had an estimated average viewership of 7.5 million people, with the Los Angeles Lakers taking home the championship title.