Tom Jenkins’s Best Sport Photographs of 2025: A Year in Review
Imagine a year where every click of the camera captures not just a moment, but a story. That’s exactly what Tom Jenkins has done in 2025, and I’m here to take you on a journey through his lens. From the chaos of a corner kick to the raw emotion of a historic victory, these photographs are more than just images—they’re narratives waiting to be explored. But here’s where it gets controversial: not all these shots were chosen for their news value. Some are here because they’re simply beautiful, and others because they carry a story that words alone can’t tell. Let’s dive in.
Arsenal vs. Spurs, Premier League, Emirates Stadium – 15 January
Ever wondered how photographers capture the perfect moment in the midst of chaos? Tom Jenkins did just that during the North London Derby. Using a remote camera strategically placed behind the goalpost, he anticipated Arsenal’s famous attacking corner routine. The result? A shot that encapsulates the tension and precision of the game. But this is the part most people miss: the Emirates Stadium, with its clean, dark backgrounds and low-down shooting angles, is Tom’s favorite place to photograph football. It’s not just about the action; it’s about the setting.
England vs. France, Six Nations, Twickenham – 8 February
In a game where every second counts, Tom captured the defining moment of England’s season. Elliot Daly, subbed in, scored a try that turned the tide. But what’s truly captivating is the expression on Daly’s face—a mix of determination and perhaps a hint of fear as he faced Antoine Dupont, the world’s best player. And this is the part most people miss: Marcus Smith, in the background, is already celebrating. It’s these subtle details that make the photo unforgettable.
Lauren Price vs. Natasha Jonas, Royal Albert Hall – 7 March
Women’s boxing made history at the Royal Albert Hall, and Tom was there to capture it. But what sets this photo apart is his choice of vantage point—the organist’s bench. By positioning himself there, he not only captured the action in the ring but also the grandeur of the venue. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best shots come from thinking outside the box.
Cheltenham Racing Festival, Day One – 11 March
Tom’s shot of the water jump at Cheltenham is a testament to patience and creativity. Despite overcast conditions, he managed to capture a lone runner jumping elegantly, with the jockey’s silks adding a splash of color. But here’s where it gets controversial: Tom admits he doesn’t often go to the water jump, finding it a bit of a trek. Yet, this year, he took a chance—and it paid off.
Saracens vs. Harlequins, Premiership, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium – 22 March
Rugby’s post-match moments are often overlooked, but Tom highlights one of the sport’s most appealing aspects: the players’ interactions with their loved ones. His shot of Nick David, with a battered face, reuniting with his girlfriend is a powerful reminder of the human side of the game. But this is the part most people miss: Tom followed David after the game, knowing there was a story worth capturing.
Vinícius Júnior, Arsenal vs. Real Madrid, Champions League – 8 April
Sometimes, the simplest moments make the most compelling photos. Tom’s shot of Vinícius Júnior tying his laces is a perfect example. Kneeling on the ground, he captured a fleeting moment that, while unrelated to the game, speaks volumes about the life of a global sports icon. But here’s where it gets controversial: Tom admits he only had a couple of seconds before being ushered away. It’s a reminder that even the best photographers have to work with constraints.
Crystal Palace Wins the FA Cup Final, Wembley – 17 May
As a lifelong Palace fan, Tom’s emotions ran high during this historic win. His photo of Joel Ward lifting the trophy in front of diehard fans is more than just a celebration—it’s a personal triumph. But this is the part most people miss: Tom was photographing the celebrations in a daze, tears streaming down his face. It’s a raw, unfiltered moment that captures the essence of fandom.
Everton’s Farewell to Goodison Park – 18 May
The final game at Goodison Park was an emotional rollercoaster, and Tom was there to document it. His use of a monopod to capture the scenes above the crowd is a masterclass in improvisation. But here’s where it gets controversial: the smoke from blue flares was so thick, Tom couldn’t even see the team bus. Yet, he managed to capture the essence of the day—and even walked away with a blue face from the flares.
Temba Bavuma, South Africa Cricket Captain, Arundel – 2 June
Tom’s portrait of Temba Bavuma, the first black South African to captain his country, is a powerful statement. Despite his short stature and quiet voice, Bavuma exudes strength and leadership. But this is the part most people miss: Tom captured this during a practice session, not a high-stakes match. It’s a reminder that greatness can be found in the most unexpected moments.
Emma Raducanu vs. Mimi Xu, Wimbledon – 30 June
Wimbledon’s golden hour is a photographer’s dream, and Tom made the most of it. His shot of Emma Raducanu during her first-round match is a study in light and shadow. But here’s where it gets controversial: Tom set up his camera with two different exposures, one for the sun and one for the shadow. It’s a technical feat that adds depth to the photo.
Grigor Dimitrov vs. Jannik Sinner, Wimbledon – 7 July
In a match filled with drama, Tom captured the moment Dimitrov’s Wimbledon dream ended in tears. Sinner’s consolation, while respectful, couldn’t mask the heartbreak. But this is the part most people miss: less than a week later, Sinner lifted the trophy. It’s a stark reminder of the highs and lows of professional sports.
Tokito Oda vs. Alfie Hewett, Wimbledon Wheelchair Singles Final – 13 July
Wheelchair tennis rivals Oda and Hewett delivered a match for the ages, and Tom was there to capture it. But what’s truly unexpected is the butterfly that fluttered past just as Oda celebrated. It’s these serendipitous moments that make sports photography so captivating.
Rory McIlroy, The Open, Royal Portrush – 20 July
Tom’s photos of Rory McIlroy at The Open are a testament to his ability to capture the atmosphere surrounding a player. By positioning himself where McIlroy’s wayward shots landed, he captured the golfer amidst a sea of fans. But here’s where it gets controversial: Tom admits McIlroy’s inaccuracy off the tee actually worked in his favor.
Chris Woakes, England vs. India, The Oval – 4 August
In a match filled with drama, Tom’s shot of Chris Woakes walking off in defeat is bittersweet. It’s the final image he took of Woakes’s international career, and it’s hauntingly poignant. But this is the part most people miss: Tom had hoped to capture Woakes batting, perhaps even hitting the winning runs. Instead, he captured a moment of quiet resignation.
The Siena Palio Prove, Tuscany, Italy – 14 August
Even on holiday, Tom can’t resist capturing a piece of history. His shot of the Siena Palio, taken with a compact camera, is a reminder that great photos don’t always require professional gear. But here’s where it gets controversial: Tom admits he didn’t have his full kit with him. It’s a refreshing change of pace that highlights his versatility.
England vs. USA, Women’s Rugby World Cup – 22 August
Tom’s photo of Abby Dow’s tackle is a powerful statement about the intensity of women’s rugby. But this is the part most people miss: Dow, known for her crochet skills off the pitch, became a cult figure during the tournament. It’s a reminder that athletes are multifaceted individuals.
England Wins the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final – 27 September
England’s World Cup triumph was a day to remember, and Tom’s photo of the team storming the BBC’s pitch-side studio is pure joy. But here’s where it gets controversial: this moment wasn’t staged—it was spontaneous. It’s a testament to the team’s spirit and Tom’s ability to capture it.
Grand Sumo Tournament, Royal Albert Hall – 19 October
Sumo wrestling is a sport of contrasts—beautiful yet brutal—and Tom’s photos capture this perfectly. His shot of Tobizaru and Takayasu, with an unexpected finger up the nose, is both humorous and insightful. But this is the part most people miss: Tom learned about the fighters’ techniques during the week, allowing him to anticipate unique moments.
Sir Kenny Dalglish, Soho, London – 23 October
Photographing a legend like Sir Kenny Dalglish in a cluttered hotel room is no easy feat, but Tom rose to the challenge. By keeping things simple and using creative angles, he captured a clean, engaging portrait. But here’s where it gets controversial: Tom admits they probably overran their time slot. It’s a reminder that sometimes, breaking the rules leads to the best results.
England vs. Australia, Rugby League Ashes – 25 October
Tom’s photo of England’s Herbie Farnworth being met by a wall of green and gold is a powerful statement about Australia’s dominance. But this is the part most people miss: Tom was specifically looking for an image that illustrated this dominance. It’s a reminder that great photos often come from careful planning.
England vs. New Zealand, Autumn Nations Series – 15 November
Using a remote camera, Tom captured England’s decisive try against the All Blacks. His choice of a wide-angle lens added context, showing the scoreboard and celebrating players. But here’s where it gets controversial: Tom often uses remote cameras to widen his chances of getting a great shot. It’s a strategy that paid off handsomely here.
Luke Littler, PDC World Darts Championship – 11 December
Tom’s multiple exposure shot of Luke Littler is a creative departure from traditional darts photography. By combining a slow and fast shutter speed, he captured the speed and precision of Littler’s throws. But this is the part most people miss: Tom only uses this technique at the beginning of a set, ensuring he’s back to normal shooting for potential celebrations.
Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City, Premier League – 14 December
In a game where City dominated, Tom found beauty in a patch of low winter sunshine at Selhurst Park. His shot, while not newsworthy, is a reminder that sometimes, the best photos are simply nice to look at. But here’s where it gets controversial: Tom admits these types of images keep him sane during less eventful games.
Final Thoughts
Tom Jenkins’s photographs of 2025 are more than just a collection of moments—they’re a testament to his skill, creativity, and passion for storytelling. But here’s where it gets controversial: not every great photo comes from a high-stakes moment. Sometimes, it’s the quiet, unexpected moments that leave the biggest impression. What’s your take? Do you think the best sports photos are always about the action, or is there room for the subtle, the beautiful, and the unexpected? Let’s discuss in the comments!
