Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the thrilling world of sports anime? 2024 is shaping up to be an incredible year for the genre, with a mix of returning favorites and exciting new contenders. Whether you're a die-hard sports fan or just love a good underdog story, there's something here for everyone. So, grab your popcorn, get comfy, and let’s jump into the top 10 sports anime you absolutely need to watch this year!

1. Haikyu!! (To The Top Part 2)

Haikyu!! continues to dominate the sports anime scene, and for good reason. The series follows Shoyo Hinata and the Karasuno High School volleyball team as they strive to reach the national championships. What makes Haikyu!! so compelling is its incredible attention to detail in portraying the sport of volleyball. The animation is fluid and dynamic, perfectly capturing the intensity of each game. Beyond the action, the series excels in character development. Each member of the Karasuno team, as well as their rivals, are given depth and complexity, making you genuinely care about their journeys. The themes of teamwork, perseverance, and overcoming challenges resonate deeply, making Haikyu!! not just a sports anime, but a truly inspiring story. In "To The Top Part 2," the stakes are higher than ever as Karasuno faces tougher opponents and Hinata continues to push his limits. Expect nail-biting matches, heartwarming moments, and plenty of hype-worthy plays that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The blend of comedy, drama, and intense sports action makes Haikyu!! a must-watch for any anime fan.

2. Yowamushi Pedal (Limit Break)

Yowamushi Pedal is another standout in the sports anime world, focusing on the intense and strategic sport of competitive cycling. The story centers around Sakamichi Onoda, an otaku who initially joins the cycling club to save it from being disbanded. Little does he know, he possesses a natural talent for cycling, and his journey from an anime-obsessed introvert to a competitive cyclist is both inspiring and entertaining. What sets Yowamushi Pedal apart is its detailed portrayal of cycling tactics and the physical and mental endurance required to compete at a high level. The characters are well-developed, each with their own unique strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. The series does an excellent job of balancing the competitive aspect with the personal growth of the characters, making it more than just a sports anime. "Limit Break" continues Onoda’s journey as he faces new challenges and strives to become an even better cyclist. Expect thrilling races, intense rivalries, and plenty of heartfelt moments as Onoda and his teammates push themselves to their limits. If you're looking for a sports anime that combines strategy, camaraderie, and personal growth, Yowamushi Pedal is definitely worth checking out.

3. Ace of Diamond (Act II)

Ace of Diamond, also known as Diamond no Ace, is a gripping baseball anime that follows the journey of Eijun Sawamura, a passionate and energetic pitcher with a unique pitching style. Sawamura dreams of becoming the ace of the Seido High School baseball team, one of the most prestigious baseball programs in the country. What makes Ace of Diamond so compelling is its realistic portrayal of high school baseball and the challenges faced by young athletes. The series delves into the intense competition, rigorous training, and emotional highs and lows that come with pursuing a dream in a highly competitive environment. The characters are well-developed, each with their own distinct personalities and motivations, and the relationships between them are complex and engaging. "Act II" continues Sawamura’s journey as he strives to improve his skills and earn his place as the ace of the team. Expect intense games, strategic plays, and plenty of character development as Sawamura and his teammates battle their way to the top. If you're a fan of baseball or sports anime in general, Ace of Diamond is a must-watch.

4. SK8 the Infinity

SK8 the Infinity is a vibrant and stylish skateboarding anime that takes place in an underground world of high-stakes skateboarding competitions. The story revolves around Reki, a high school student who is passionate about skateboarding, and Langa, a transfer student who quickly becomes a skateboarding prodigy. What makes SK8 the Infinity so appealing is its dynamic animation, colorful characters, and the sheer joy of skateboarding that it conveys. The series is visually stunning, with fluid animation that perfectly captures the energy and excitement of skateboarding. The characters are all unique and memorable, each with their own motivations and backstories. The series explores themes of friendship, competition, and self-discovery, making it more than just a skateboarding anime. Expect thrilling skateboarding sequences, intense rivalries, and plenty of humor as Reki and Langa navigate the world of underground skateboarding. If you're looking for a sports anime that is both visually stunning and emotionally engaging, SK8 the Infinity is definitely worth checking out.

5. Tsurune -Kazemai Koukou Kyuudoubu-

Tsurune is a beautifully animated and emotionally resonant anime that focuses on the traditional Japanese sport of Kyudo, or archery. The story follows Minato Narumiya, a high school student who had given up Kyudo after a traumatic experience in middle school. However, he is drawn back to the sport by the encouragement of his friends and the allure of the tsurune, the unique sound of the bowstring when an arrow is released. What makes Tsurune so special is its serene and contemplative atmosphere, as well as its focus on the mental and emotional aspects of Kyudo. The series delves into the challenges faced by Minato as he tries to overcome his past trauma and rediscover his love for the sport. The characters are well-developed, and the relationships between them are complex and nuanced. Expect beautiful animation, a moving story, and a deep dive into the art of Kyudo. If you're looking for a sports anime that is both visually stunning and emotionally engaging, Tsurune is a must-watch.

6. Re-Main

Re-Main is a unique and refreshing take on the sports anime genre, focusing on the sport of water polo. The story centers around Minato Kiyomizu, a former water polo prodigy who lost his memories after an accident. When he returns to high school, he decides to rejoin the water polo team and rediscover his passion for the sport. What makes Re-Main so interesting is its focus on the mental and emotional challenges faced by athletes, as well as its quirky and humorous tone. The series deals with themes of memory, identity, and overcoming adversity. The characters are all unique and memorable, and the relationships between them are complex and engaging. Expect thrilling water polo matches, humorous moments, and plenty of character development as Minato and his teammates strive to become a top team. If you're looking for a sports anime that is both unique and engaging, Re-Main is definitely worth checking out.

7. Burning Kabaddi

Burning Kabaddi offers a fresh and exciting take on a lesser-known sport: Kabaddi. The anime follows Tatsuya Yoigoshi, a former soccer ace who is invited to join his high school's Kabaddi team. Initially reluctant, Tatsuya soon discovers the intensity and strategy of Kabaddi, a sport that combines elements of wrestling and tag. What makes Burning Kabaddi stand out is its portrayal of Kabaddi's fast-paced action and tactical depth. The series effectively captures the physicality and mental agility required to excel in the sport. Tatsuya's journey from a soccer star to a Kabaddi enthusiast is compelling, and the supporting characters each bring unique skills and personalities to the team. If you're looking for a sports anime that introduces you to a new and exciting sport, Burning Kabaddi is a must-watch.

8. Wave!! Surfing Yappe!!

Wave!! Surfing Yappe!! is a visually stunning anime that captures the thrill and beauty of surfing. The story revolves around Masaki Hinaoka, a high school student who becomes fascinated by surfing after meeting a transfer student named Shou Akitsuki. Together, they form a surfing club and compete in local competitions. What makes Wave!! Surfing Yappe!! so appealing is its vibrant animation and its focus on the camaraderie and personal growth of the characters. The series effectively conveys the excitement and challenge of surfing, as well as the close-knit community of surfers. The characters are all likable and relatable, and their passion for surfing is infectious. If you're a fan of surfing or just looking for a feel-good sports anime, Wave!! Surfing Yappe!! is definitely worth checking out.

9. Hanebado!

Hanebado! is a badminton anime that combines intense sports action with complex character drama. The story follows Ayano Hanesaki, a naturally gifted badminton player who struggles with the pressure to perform. Her coach, Tachibana Kentaro, tries to help her overcome her mental blocks and reach her full potential. What makes Hanebado! so compelling is its exploration of the psychological challenges faced by athletes, as well as its intense badminton matches. The series delves into the relationships between the characters and the sacrifices they make to pursue their dreams. The animation is fluid and dynamic, perfectly capturing the speed and agility of badminton. If you're looking for a sports anime that is both thrilling and emotionally engaging, Hanebado! is a must-watch.

10. Aoashi

Aoashi is a realistic and engaging soccer anime that follows the journey of Ashito Aoi, a talented but undisciplined soccer player from rural Japan. Ashito is scouted by a coach from a prestigious youth academy in Tokyo, where he must learn to refine his skills and work as part of a team. What makes Aoashi stand out is its focus on the tactical and strategic aspects of soccer, as well as its realistic portrayal of youth development. The series delves into the challenges faced by young players as they strive to improve their skills and earn their place on the team. The characters are well-developed, and the relationships between them are complex and engaging. If you're a fan of soccer or just looking for a realistic and compelling sports anime, Aoashi is definitely worth checking out.

So there you have it, guys! The top 10 sports anime to watch in 2024. Whether you're a fan of volleyball, cycling, baseball, skateboarding, or any other sport, there's something here for everyone. So grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and get ready to experience the thrill and excitement of sports anime!