Wide World of Sports (American TV program)

Wide World of Sports was an American sports anthology television program broadcast on ABC from 1961 to 1998. Created by Roone Arledge, it was a highly influential program that brought a diverse range of sports from around the globe to a large American audience.

The show was notable for featuring both major sporting events and more obscure competitions, often from remote locations. This mix of mainstream and niche sports contributed to its broad appeal. Regular segments included coverage of events such as skiing, figure skating, gymnastics, track and field, boxing, and auto racing. International events were a staple, showcasing sports unfamiliar to many American viewers.

Wide World of Sports is perhaps best remembered for its opening montage, featuring a stirring theme song and the narration "Spanning the globe to bring you the constant variety of sport...the thrill of victory...and the agony of defeat...the human drama of athletic competition..." This iconic phrase, particularly "the agony of defeat," became a cultural touchstone and a shorthand for the inherent risks and disappointments of athletic pursuits.

The show went through several format changes and title variations over its run, including ABC's Wide World of Sports and Wide World of Sports Saturday. After its cancellation in 1998, the Wide World of Sports name has been used by ABC Sports for occasional sports specials and branding. It remains a significant piece of American sports television history, credited with popularizing many sports and influencing the way sports are presented on television.