As 2024 draws to a close, Google has released its highly anticipated “Year in Search” report, unveiling the top trending queries that captured the world’s attention this year. This annual roundup highlights the search terms that experienced the biggest surges in traffic compared to 2023, offering a unique glimpse into the stories, events, and cultural moments that resonated globally.
From major sporting events to political milestones and viral moments in pop culture, Google’s trending searches paint a vivid picture of what mattered most to people in 2024. Let’s explore the standout moments that shaped this year.
Sports Dominate Search Trends
Unsurprisingly, sports held a significant place in 2024’s top trending Google searches. Soccer and cricket emerged as the most searched sports globally. The year saw an overwhelming interest in the Copa América, which claimed the top spot as the most searched sporting event. Close behind were the UEFA European Championship and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, both of which captivated fans around the globe.
These events weren’t just about the games themselves—they spurred conversations about star players, unforgettable matches, and the excitement surrounding international rivalries. The global appeal of these sports was evident in how they transcended geographic boundaries, attracting searches from diverse regions.
U.S. Election and News Trends
On the political front, the U.S. presidential election dominated news-related searches worldwide. The historic and often controversial election captured global attention, as millions turned to Google for updates, candidate information, and live coverage of key moments. Alongside the election, queries about extreme heatwaves and the 2024 Summer Olympics also saw massive spikes in traffic. These events highlighted critical issues like climate change and celebrated human athletic achievement on a grand scale.
Famous Figures in the Spotlight
Google’s ‘Year in Search’ showcased the figures who captured the most attention in 2024. Topping the list was U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, whose every move during the election season sparked widespread curiosity. In second place was Catherine, Princess of Wales, known for her public appearances and charitable work. U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris followed closely, reflecting her continued influence on the political stage. Algerian boxer Imane Khelif emerged as a prominent figure as well, leading the list of athlete-specific searches.
Among notable figures who passed away in 2024, singer Liam Payne captured the most searches, followed by country music legend Toby Keith and controversial former athlete O.J. Simpson. These individuals left lasting legacies, which were reflected in the public’s interest in their lives and careers.
Entertainment Highlights
In the entertainment sphere, movies, music, and television shows held a strong grip on global attention. Disney and Pixar’s highly anticipated Inside Out 2 claimed the title of the most searched movie of the year. Fans eagerly followed updates about this sequel, which brought back beloved characters and introduced new storylines.
On the small screen, Netflix’s Baby Reindeer led TV show searches, becoming a cultural phenomenon for its gripping narrative. Meanwhile, Kendrick Lamar’s hit song Not Like Us became the year’s most searched track, reflecting his enduring influence on the music industry.
Unusual and Viral Searches
2024 wasn’t just about high-profile events—quirky and unexpected trends also found their way into Google’s top searches. A prime example was the Olympic Village’s chocolate muffin, made famous by Norwegian swimmer Henrik Christiansen during the Summer Olympics. This viral moment fueled a surge in recipe searches, as people worldwide wanted to recreate the treat at home.
In the gaming category, Connections, a puzzle game from The New York Times, became the most searched game globally, showcasing the growing popularity of intellectually engaging online activities. In the U.S., searches reflected unique interests, including a fascination with terms like “demure” and the “mob wife aesthetic,” both of which captured the imagination of internet users exploring fashion and lifestyle trends.
Country-Specific Trends
Google’s “Year in Search” report also delves into country-specific trends, offering localized insights into what mattered most to people in different regions. From political updates to viral social media phenomena, the report reveals the cultural diversity and shared interests that define our global digital landscape.
Other Reflections on 2024
Google’s recap is just one of several annual summaries that help us reflect on the year gone by. Other platforms, such as Spotify with its Wrapped feature and dictionary publishers unveiling their “word of the year,” also provide fascinating insights into societal trends. Together, these reports create a multifaceted view of 2024, highlighting its key moments and cultural shifts.
A Window into Our Digital Lives
Google’s “Year in Search” is more than just a list of trending topics—it’s a reflection of the questions, curiosities, and passions that drive our online behavior. Whether it’s staying informed about major events, diving into the latest entertainment releases, or exploring unique cultural moments, these searches reveal what unites us and makes each year unique.
As the curtain closes on 2024, the trends revealed by Google serve as a reminder of the collective experiences that define our era. What will people search for in 2025? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: our curiosity and quest for knowledge will remain as strong as ever.