11 Most Popular Sports in Cameroon

Ever wondered what sports get the hearts of Cameroonians racing?

It’s not just about their vibrant culture and music!

While soccer dominates the scene, Cameroon has a diverse sports landscape.

Intrigued to know more?

Unravel the top 11 most popular sports in Cameroon with our list.

Most Popular Sports in Cameroon:

1. Soccer
2. Basketball
3. Athletics
4. Cycling
5. Golf
6. Cricket
7. Baseball
8. Softball
9. Rugby
10. Wrestling
11. Handball

#1 Soccer

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Cameroon: 1950s
• 🌟Most Famous Player from Cameroon: Samuel Eto’o (Cameroonian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Cameroon: 2 Million

Soccer is the undisputed king of sports in Cameroon. Its unifying power brings together people from diverse backgrounds, creating a strong sense of national pride.

The Elite One Championship is Cameroon’s top professional soccer league, featuring high-level competition and fan fervor. Samuel Eto’o, an iconic Cameroonian striker, has inspired generations with his international success and philanthropic efforts.

Cameroon’s unforgettable soccer moment came in 1990 when they reached the World Cup quarterfinals, solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with and setting the stage for future successes.

For a deeper dive into Cameroon’s national sport and some fascinating facts about its history and significance, check out our article on Cameroon’s National Sport: Soccer (7 Facts).

#2 Basketball

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Cameroon: 1960s
• 🌟Most Famous Player from Cameroon: Joel Embiid (Cameroonian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Players in Cameroon: 300,000

Basketball is steadily gaining popularity in Cameroon, with a growing fanbase and talented players making their mark on the international stage.

The National Basketball Championship of Cameroon showcases the country’s best teams and players. NBA star Joel Embiid hails from Cameroon, displaying exceptional skills and earning admiration worldwide.

Cameroonian players have had notable success in US college basketball and European leagues, further boosting the sport’s growth and interest in the country.

#3 Athletics

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Cameroon: 1960s
• 🌟Most Famous Athlete from Cameroon: Françoise Mbango Etone (Cameroonian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Athletics Enthusiasts in Cameroon: 1 Million

Athletics in Cameroon has produced several global champions across various disciplines – from track and field to marathons.

National and regional competitions celebrate the country’s athletic talent, with athletes like Françoise Mbango Etone shining on the world stage – capturing Cameroon’s first Olympic gold medal in the 2004 Athens Olympics for triple jump.

Cameroon’s dedication to athletics demonstrates its commitment to nurturing talent and promoting physical excellence, ensuring a promising future in the sport.

#4 Cycling

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Cameroon: 1970s
• 🌟Most Famous Cyclist from Cameroon: Yves Njies (Cameroonian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Cycling Enthusiasts in Cameroon: 500,000

Cycling in Cameroon is an emerging sport, both as a competitive endeavor and a recreational activity. The diverse landscape and scenic routes across the country make it ideal for cyclists.

The Tour du Cameroun is the country’s premier cycling event, attracting local and international competitors. Yves Njies, a standout Cameroonian cyclist, has gained recognition for his achievements in various national and international races.

As the sport continues to gain momentum, cycling in Cameroon promises to flourish, inspiring future generations to embrace the activity.

#5 Golf

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Cameroon: 1980s
• 🌟Most Famous Golfer from Cameroon: Victor Mballa (Cameroonian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Golfers in Cameroon: 100,000

Golf in Cameroon is a growing sport, captivating fans and players alike with its unique blend of skill, strategy, and leisure.

While there is no professional golf league in Cameroon, the sport has built a dedicated following through local clubs and occasional tournaments. Victor Mballa, a Cameroonian golfer, has inspired many with his passion for the game and mentorship of young talents.

As more people discover the joy of swinging the clubs and walking the greens, Cameroon’s golf scene continues to expand and prosper.

#6 Cricket

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Cameroon: 1990s
• 🌟Most Famous Cricketer from Cameroon: Esther Mboueri (Cameroonian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Cricket Enthusiasts in Cameroon: 50,000

Though not as widespread as other sports, cricket in Cameroon has been gradually gaining popularity, particularly among the youth.

Local clubs and initiatives like the Cameroon Cricket Federation promote the sport, organizing competitions and facilitating talent development. Esther Mboueri, a shining star in Cameroon’s cricket scene, has inspired many young players with her dedication and achievements.

As the sport continues to grow, Cameroon’s cricket enthusiasts hope to see their country compete on the international stage in the future.

#7 Baseball

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Cameroon: 1990s
• 🌟Most Famous Baseball Player from Cameroon: N/A
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Baseball Enthusiasts in Cameroon: 40,000

Baseball in Cameroon is an emerging sport, with dedicated enthusiasts working tirelessly to spread awareness and cultivate talent.

Though there is no professional baseball league in the country, Cameroonians enjoy watching Major League Baseball (MLB) from the United States. Local clubs and school teams help develop the sport at the grassroots level.

With increased exposure and support, Cameroon’s baseball scene aims to nurture talent and ultimately compete on the global stage.

#8 Softball

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Cameroon: 1990s
• 🌟Most Famous Softball Player from Cameroon: N/A
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Softball Enthusiasts in Cameroon: 30,000

Though still in its nascent stage, softball in Cameroon has witnessed a steady growth in popularity, particularly among schools and universities.

While no professional league exists yet, local clubs and youth programs help promote the sport and develop skills. Cameroonians who watch international events such as the Women’s Softball World Championship or the NCAA Women’s College World Series get inspired to take up the sport themselves.

With time, dedication, and the right resources, Cameroon’s softball scene is poised for true growth and recognition.

#9 Rugby

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Cameroon: 2000s
• 🌟Most Famous Rugby Player from Cameroon: N/A
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Rugby Enthusiasts in Cameroon: 20,000

Rugby in Cameroon may not yet be among the top sports, but it’s steadily gaining recognition and a growing fanbase.

Local clubs and national teams participate in regional competitions, promoting the development of the game at the grassroots level. Cameroonians who enjoy watching international rugby events such as the Rugby World Cup or the Six Nations Championship are also inspired to participate.

As rugby continues to build momentum in Cameroon, the sport’s future looks promising, with more players and fans getting involved in the action-packed game.

#10 Wrestling

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Cameroon: Traditional
• 🌟Most Famous Wrestler from Cameroon: Joseph Bessala (Cameroonian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Wrestling Enthusiasts in Cameroon: 150,000

Wrestling has deep roots in Cameroon’s culture, with traditional forms of the sport practiced in various communities for centuries.

One of Cameroon’s most famous wrestlers, Joseph Bessala, represented the country at the Olympics and won a silver medal in 1968. Today, Cameroonians watch international wrestling events such as the WWE and aspire to compete on that stage.

As the sport merges its traditional origins with modern formats, wrestling in Cameroon retains its cultural significance while embracing new opportunities for growth and development.

#11 Handball

• 📅 (Estimated) Year of Introduction in Cameroon: 1980s
• 🌟Most Famous Handball Player from Cameroon: Isabelle Bekono (Cameroonian)
• 🌍 Estimated Number of Handball Players in Cameroon: 25,000

Handball is gaining popularity in Cameroon, particularly among schools and universities, driven by its dynamic, fast-paced nature and the challenge it provides for players and fans alike.

School teams and local clubs compete in regional tournaments, fostering camaraderie and nurturing the next generation of handball talent. Isabelle Bekono, a top handball player from Cameroon, has become a symbol of hope for aspiring young athletes.

As handball receives more support and attention, Cameroon is poised to make its mark in the sport, further diversifying its sporting accomplishments.

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