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While genres like isekai and romance often dominate the anime landscape, sports-themed series consistently find their place each season. As 2024 approaches its end and the promise of 2025 sports anime begins to emerge, fans can look forward to a diverse lineup showcasing some less conventional sports narratives alongside the staples of soccer and baseball. The anime community would surely welcome fresh stories in sports like golf or figure skating, or even a unique bowling-themed show.
As time progresses, the roster of upcoming sports anime will expand, setting the stage for exciting competitions to claim the title of the best sports anime of the year. Let’s explore the current entries that are confirmed for 2025 and what fans can anticipate.
Updated on December 11, 2024 by Mark Sammut: The Winter 2025 sports anime lineup is shaping up with the addition of titles like The Catcher in the Ballpark!, We8 the Infinity OVA: Extra Part, and Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc Season 2.
Winter 2025 Sports Anime
Medalist
Adapted from an ongoing seinen manga with over ten volumes, Medalist tells the inspiring story of Inori and Tsukasa, who chase the ultimate dream of winning Olympic gold in ice skating.
Though the manga may not be widely recognized, it enjoys a solid reputation due to its relatable characters and realistic storytelling. Inori’s seemingly unattainable ambition is met with her talent and determination, while Tsukasa, as her coach, forms the emotional core of the series.
ENGI, while an atypical choice for an adaptation of a sports story, has delivered competent shows in the past, raising hopes for a quality adaptation of this series.
Sorairo Utility
Sorairo Utility returns to the spotlight after its 2021 short film debut, expanding into a full series set to premiere in Winter 2025. This lighthearted series centers around the delightful interactions of girls enjoying the game of golf.
Golf has seen a surprising resurgence in anime, with recent titles like Birdie Wing and Rising Impact exploring the sport from unique perspectives. This new series aims to capture a similar spirit of fun and camaraderie as the characters navigate friendship on the golf course.
Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc Season 2
Continuing from the Summer 2024 season, Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc blends action and sports, appealing to fans of both genres. Despite its long-standing history, it remains relatively niche outside Japan, offering a unique experience for those interested in wrestling-themed narratives.
The series may not attract a massive new audience due to its established legacy, but its reputation suggests it will uphold the franchise’s high-quality standards.
SK8 the Infinity OVA: Extra Part
While a sequel to SK8 the Infinity is confirmed, details about its release are still pending. However, fans can eagerly await an OVA consisting of short episodes focused on various characters from the series, providing a lighthearted revisit to the skateboarding world since its last release in 2021.
Upcoming 2025 Sports Anime Without a Release Date
100m (Movie)
The only sports film announced for 2025 thus far, Hyakuemu is based on a manga that concluded in 2019 after a brief run. With just 40 chapters, the adaptation will focus on the rivalry between two prodigies in short-distance running, Akane Taketsugu and Yuuki Katayama, whose competitive spirit drives the narrative.
The Catcher in the Ballpark!
The Catcher in the Ballpark! presents a refreshing narrative that shifts focus from athletes to fans. It follows Koutarou Murata, who experiences baseball as an escape from his mundane life and forms a connection with Ruriko, a vendor who finds him intriguing. This seinen adaptation intertwines slice-of-life moments with the sports genre.
Turkey!
Introducing a groundbreaking concept, Turkey! spots a unique niche in anime as a bowling-focused series. The original creation tells the story of a group of passionate girls who embrace the sport, hinting at competitive dynamics as they appear in uniforms. Although details are scant, this early promotion suggests a potential blend of charm and team spirit.
Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray
The enduring appeal of the Uma Musume franchise, centered around anthropomorphized racehorses, continues to captivate audiences through its games, manga, and three successful anime seasons. Cinderella Gray aims to highlight Oguri Cap’s journey towards becoming a top contender, promising both mature narratives and exhilarating races characteristic of the franchise.
Wandance
Wandance draws attention to the expressive art of freestyle dancing, as it follows Kaboku, who overcomes his insecurities inspired by the talented dancer Hikari. While battling personal challenges, he discovers his natural rhythm and potential. With its beautifully illustrated source material and dynamic character development, this series promises deep emotional engagement set against a vibrant backdrop of dance.
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