The selection includes 523 sports from around the world, arranged alphabetically for quick reference. It spans well-known games, niche competitions, and traditional activities practiced across many cultures.

Sports are physical activities that involve skill, effort, and often competition between individuals or teams. They range from simple playground games to complex events requiring specialized equipment and training. Many sports grew out of everyday tasks, military drills, or regional customs before turning into organized competitions. Today they hold a major place in health, entertainment, education, and international relations, from neighborhood clubs to the Olympic Games.

Interesting and little-known facts about Sports: – The ancient Olympic Games began in 776 BC and featured only one event, a short foot race. – Chess is recognized as a sport by the International Olympic Committee, despite involving no physical exertion. – In jai alai, the pelota can travel faster than 300 km/h (188 mph), among the fastest speeds of any sport ball. – Sepak takraw, popular across Southeast Asia, combines volleyball-style rules with feet, knees, chest, and head instead of hands. – The longest tennis match on record lasted 11 hours and 5 minutes, spread across three days. – Curling stones are traditionally cut from granite quarried on Ailsa Craig, a small island off the coast of Scotland.

The alphabetical index below lists every sport by name, with a short Description explaining what each one involves and how it is played.