Explore the most searched news and personalities of 2024, as Google reveals the year's top trending topics, from U.S. elections to environmental concerns, and the rise of influential figures like Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.

What the World Was Searching for in 2024


As the year draws to a close, Google’s annual “Searches of the Year” report offers a glimpse into the world’s most pressing curiosities. From political upheavals to environmental crises, the global search trends of 2024 reflect the issues that captivated the collective attention of millions. This year, the spotlight was on major news events, iconic personalities, and the issues shaping the future. Here's a rundown of the top search trends and the people who captured the public's imagination in 2024.

Top News Stories: Elections, Climate Crisis, and Major Sporting Events

U.S. Elections Stir Global Interest


In 2024, one event dominated global search traffic: the U.S. presidential election. The intense political drama, from President Joe Biden’s unexpected exit from the race to the highly charged debates between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, kept millions glued to their screens. The election, a focal point for not just Americans but the entire world, saw an unprecedented surge in online discussions, culminating in the final days of October and early November.

The U.S. election was not just a national affair—it became a global event, reflecting the world’s growing interest in American politics. Whether it was the strategies, controversies, or the looming uncertainty surrounding the outcome, the race for the White House sparked debates and fueled curiosity across continents.

Environmental Crisis Grabs Attention: The Impact of Excessive Heat


The second most searched news topic in 2024 was the climate crisis, highlighted by record-breaking temperatures worldwide. Excessive heat waves hit multiple regions, serving as a stark reminder of the intensifying environmental challenges facing the planet. With rising concerns over climate change, global warming took center stage in the public discourse, prompting action calls from activists, governments, and citizens alike.

As nations battled extreme weather events, many searches revolved around the causes and potential solutions to the climate crisis. 2024’s scorching temperatures pushed environmental issues to the forefront of global news, making it one of the year’s most significant points of interest.

Paris Olympics: A Global Sporting Spectacle


Coming in third in the global search rankings was the 2024 Summer Olympics, held in Paris. The Games, an emblem of international athleticism, provided a thrilling backdrop of competition, triumphs, and controversies. With athletes pushing their limits and showcasing their best performances, the Olympics offered a captivating spectacle that inspired millions around the world. As expected, the event generated considerable buzz, ranking among the top searched topics of the year.

The Most Searched People of 2024: From Politics to Sports

Donald Trump: A Polarizing Figure Dominates Global Searches


When it comes to influential figures, Donald Trump topped the list in 2024. His legal battles, ongoing political ambitions, and high-profile role in the presidential race ensured his place as the most searched personality. Trump’s controversial remarks, coupled with his eventual run for re-election, kept the public engaged and the search engines busy. The intrigue surrounding his every move—from court cases to campaign rallies—sparked widespread discussion on a global scale.

Kate Middleton: Royal Absence Sparks Speculation


In second place was Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales. Speculation about her absence from royal duties early in the year fueled public curiosity. Fans and critics alike searched for updates on her health and future royal responsibilities. As a beloved figure in the UK and beyond, her brief disappearance sparked waves of concern and led to an uptick in online searches related to her activities and personal life.

Kamala Harris: The Rising Star in American Politics


Kamala Harris rounded off the top three most searched personalities of 2024. The Vice President of the United States became a central figure as speculation mounted about her potential candidacy for the 2024 election. With President Joe Biden’s position uncertain, Harris became a key figure in the Democratic Party, and her involvement in the race for the White House captivated the public. Her rise to prominence in the final stages of the election cycle propelled her into the spotlight, making her one of the most searched personalities worldwide.

Imane Cullif: The Algerian Boxer Who Sparked Debate


In fourth place, Algerian boxer Imane Cullif became a topic of international conversation after her victory in the women's lightweight boxing event at the Paris Olympics. Cullif’s gold medal performance was a triumph for sports, but her win also sparked debates over gender and fairness in competition. As discussions about gender inclusivity in sports gained momentum, Cullif's victory became a key moment in the global conversation, furthering her visibility and search interest.

 The Global Trends of 2024 Reflect Our Collective Curiosity


The searches of 2024 reveal the world’s deep engagement with political, environmental, and cultural events. From the U.S. elections to the global climate crisis, these topics dominated public interest. Meanwhile, figures like Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, and Imane Cullif captured global attention, influencing not only the search engines but also shaping conversations across borders. As we move into 2025, these trends highlight the world’s ongoing focus on leadership, climate action, and sporting excellence.