Discover the top 10 sports cups and trophies from India and around the world, categorized by sport and country. Perfect for competitive exams and sports trivia!

Introduction: Why Sports Cups and Trophies Matter?

From cricket fields to tennis courts, sports cups and trophies represent more than victory — they symbolize history, national pride, and sporting excellence. These prestigious awards stand as testament to the dedication, effort, and passion of athletes who strive to be the best. Each trophy holds a unique legacy, whether it’s a symbol of fierce international rivalries, like the Ashes Cup, or a celebration of national pride, such as India’s Agha Khan Cup in hockey. These trophies go beyond just being shiny awards; they are cherished icons that unite fans and inspire future generations to reach for greatness.

Every major sport boasts its own set of iconic cups and trophies, each carrying its own set of traditions, records, and rich histories. Some trophies are international in stature, like the Borg-Warner Trophy in motorsports and the Australian Open in tennis, while others are exclusive to specific regions or countries, such as India’s Beighton Cup in hockey. Trophies like these not only highlight the triumphs of the best athletes but also contribute to the overall growth and evolution of the sport.

In this article, we bring you a carefully curated list of the top 10 sports cups and trophies from India and around the world. These trophies are categorized by sport and country, allowing you to dive deeper into the fascinating history behind each one. Whether you’re preparing for a competitive exam, a sports quiz, or simply want to expand your sports knowledge, this comprehensive guide is your one-stop destination. From the classic trophies that have shaped the history of global sports to those that reflect India’s emerging dominance in various fields, you’ll find everything you need to know about these prestigious awards.

🏑 Hockey Trophies

🥇 Agha Khan Cup (India)

One of the oldest and most prestigious hockey tournaments in India, the Agha Khan Cup dates back to the pre-independence era. Hosted in Pune, it was started in the honor of Aga Khan III and has historically attracted top domestic and institutional teams. The cup is a symbol of India’s rich field hockey heritage and played a key role in promoting the sport at the national level.

🥇 Beighton Cup (India)

Held annually in Kolkata and initiated in 1895, the Beighton Cup is one of the oldest field hockey tournaments in the world. Conducted by the Bengal Hockey Association, it has witnessed participation from elite Indian teams like Railways, Punjab Police, and more. The tournament has played a pivotal role in the development of hockey in eastern India and remains a cornerstone of Indian sports tradition.

🥇 Bombay Gold Cup (India)

Started in 1955 by Naval Tata, the Bombay Gold Cup is organized by the Mumbai Hockey Association. It brings together top clubs, public sector teams, and national-level players. Played at the Mahindra Hockey Stadium, the tournament showcases high-caliber matches and continues to support hockey development in western India.

🥇 Champions Trophy (International)

Introduced in 1978 by Pakistan’s Air Marshal Nur Khan, the Champions Trophy was one of the most prestigious international hockey tournaments until its conclusion in 2018. It featured the world’s top-ranked national teams, including India, Australia, the Netherlands, and Germany. The event significantly raised the global competitiveness of hockey before being replaced by the FIH Pro League.

🥇 Azlan Shah Cup (International)

The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup is an annual invitational men’s field hockey tournament held in Ipoh, Malaysia. Named after the former Malaysian King and hockey enthusiast Sultan Azlan Shah, the cup began in 1983. It is known for its fast-paced action, global participation, and is considered a great platform for Asian teams to compete against global giants like Australia, Argentina, and South Korea.

🏏 Cricket Trophies

🥇 Ashes Cup (Australia & England)

The Ashes is one of the oldest and fiercest rivalries in international cricket, played between Australia and England. First held in 1882, the series began when England lost to Australia on their home turf at The Oval, leading to a mock obituary in The Sporting Times about “the death of English cricket” and the “ashes” being taken to Australia. Since then, the trophy — a small urn symbolizing the ashes — has become one of the most iconic in cricket history. Held in alternating countries every two years, this test series is known for its dramatic matches, historic venues, and passionate fan following.

🎾 Tennis Trophies

🥇 Australian Open (International)

The Australian Open is one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments, held every January in Melbourne, Australia. Established in 1905, it has grown into a global spectacle, attracting the world’s top-ranked male and female players. Known for its extreme heat, hard court surface, and electric atmosphere at Rod Laver Arena, the tournament awards two prestigious trophies — the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup for men and the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup for women. It’s not just a sporting event but a cultural celebration that kicks off the Grand Slam season each year.

⛳ Golf Trophies

🥇 Augusta Masters (International)

The Augusta Masters, also known as The Masters Tournament, is one of the four major championships in professional golf. Held annually at the Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, USA, since 1934, it is known for its rich traditions — including the awarding of the iconic Green Jacket to the winner. The Masters is an exclusive, invitation-only event that features top international golfers and is revered for its meticulously maintained course, strategic difficulty, and deep historical significance. Winning here cements a golfer’s legacy on the world stage.

🥇 British Open (International)

Officially known as The Open Championship, the British Open is the oldest golf tournament in the world, first played in 1860. It’s held at rotating links courses across the United Kingdom, such as St Andrews, Royal Troon, and Royal Birkdale. Known for its challenging coastal winds and unpredictable weather, The Open is a true test of golfing skill and endurance. The winner receives the famed Claret Jug, making it one of the most coveted trophies in the sport. It’s a cornerstone of global golf and a dream for every professional golfer.

🏉 Rugby Trophies

🥇 Bledisloe Cup (New Zealand & Australia)

The Bledisloe Cup is one of the most prestigious rugby trophies contested between Australia and New Zealand, two rugby powerhouses. First played in 1931 and named after Lord Bledisloe, the former Governor-General of New Zealand, this series has become a legendary rugby competition. The intense rivalry, combined with high-quality rugby, makes the Bledisloe Cup one of the most sought-after trophies in international rugby. Matches between these two nations are an annual spectacle, showcasing some of the best rugby players in the world.

🥇 Calcutta Cup (England & Scotland)

The Calcutta Cup is one of rugby’s oldest and most storied trophies, first contested in 1879 between England and Scotland. It forms part of the Six Nations Championship and has a significant historical legacy. Crafted from silver rupees melted down by the Calcutta Football Club, the Calcutta Cup represents both rugby heritage and fierce competition. Every year, the rivalry between England and Scotland ignites passion on the field as both teams battle for one of the most respected international rugby trophies.

🏋 Weightlifting Trophies

🥇 Burdwan Trophy (India)

The Burdwan Trophy is an important weightlifting trophy held annually in India, aimed at promoting the sport and discovering new talent at the grassroots level. Organized by the Burdwan District Weightlifting Association, this event serves as a key platform for upcoming athletes in the weightlifting community. As one of the most recognized cups and trophies in India, it provides an opportunity for young lifters to compete at a high level, encouraging them to strive for excellence. The Burdwan Trophy is crucial in the development of the sport, helping many athletes move on to compete at national and international levels.

⚽ Football Trophies

🥇 BCS Trophy (USA)

The BCS Trophy is awarded annually to the champion of the Bowl Championship Series (BCS), which was the system used for college football in the United States from 1998 to 2013. This football trophy was traditionally awarded to the winner of the BCS National Championship Game, determining the national champion in college football. Though the BCS system was replaced by the College Football Playoff (CFP) in 2014, the BCS Trophy remains an important symbol in football trophies history, especially for fans of college football.

🥇 Colombo Cup (International)

The Colombo Cup is an annual football competition held among countries in South Asia, organized by the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF). First contested in 1993, the Colombo Cup has become one of the most important cups and trophies in South Asian football. The tournament is named after the capital city of Sri Lanka, Colombo, and serves as a platform for national teams in the region to compete for regional supremacy. Winning this football trophy is a significant achievement for any South Asian nation, and it plays a key role in the development of football in the region.

⚾ Baseball Trophies

🥇 Commissioner’s Trophy (USA)

The Commissioner’s Trophy is the prestigious baseball trophy awarded to the champion of Major League Baseball (MLB) in the United States. First introduced in 1967, this trophy is presented annually to the winner of the World Series. The Commissioner’s Trophy is one of the most sought-after cups and trophies in the sport, symbolizing excellence in professional baseball. The design of the trophy features 30 gold-plated flags representing each of the MLB teams, making it a striking symbol of victory and achievement. Winning the Commissioner’s Trophy remains a pinnacle of success for any MLB team.

🏎️ Motorsports Trophies

🥇 Borg-Warner Trophy (USA)

The Borg-Warner Trophy is one of the most iconic motorsports trophies in the world, awarded to the winner of the Indianapolis 500, one of the most prestigious events in motorsport racing. Since 1936, this trophy has been awarded to the victor of the Indy 500, a race that attracts top drivers from around the globe. The Borg-Warner Trophy is unique in that it features a silver likeness of each winning driver’s face, making it one of the most personalized cups and trophies in sports. Winning the Borg-Warner Trophy is considered a career-defining achievement in the world of motorsports, making it a coveted prize among racing enthusiasts.

🏓 Table Tennis Trophies

🥇 Bama Belleck Cup (India)

The Bama Belleck Cup is one of the significant table tennis trophies in India, showcasing the country’s growing talent in the sport. This prestigious cup is held annually and is a major event in the Indian table tennis circuit. It provides a competitive platform for both seasoned players and emerging talent to compete at a high level. The Bama Belleck Cup has become an important part of India’s table tennis history, playing a key role in the development of the sport at the national level. Winning this table tennis trophy is a notable achievement for players in India, as it sets the stage for international competition.

Table: Summarizing the trophies and their descriptions

Conclusion: The Legacy and Prestige Behind Iconic Sports Cups and Trophies

The cups and trophies listed above are much more than just symbols of victory—they represent years of dedication, skill, and excellence in their respective sports. Each trophy has a rich history, with some dating back to the early 20th century, while others have emerged as significant milestones in modern sports. These trophies are more than just awards; they are the culmination of hard work, sacrifice, and the pursuit of greatness.

In India, sports cups and trophies have played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s sports culture, offering a platform for both emerging and established athletes to showcase their talents. From the Agha Khan Cup in hockey to the Burdwan Trophy in weightlifting, India’s history of sports trophies reflects its growing prominence in the international arena. The dedication and passion displayed by Indian athletes across these competitions highlight the immense potential that the country possesses in sports.

On the global stage, international trophies like the Ashes Cup in cricket and the Borg-Warner Trophy in motorsports are recognized as symbols of prestige, attracting the best athletes from around the world. The legacy of these trophies continues to inspire millions of sports enthusiasts, motivating future generations to aim for excellence and to push their limits.

Understanding the significance of these cups and trophies not only enhances our appreciation of sports but also emphasizes the role of competition in bringing out the best in athletes. As sports evolve, the trophies associated with them serve as timeless reminders of the challenges faced and the triumphs achieved. Whether it’s in hockey, football, table tennis, or motorsports, the pursuit of these prestigious cups and trophies will continue to inspire athletes and sports fans alike.

For those passionate about sports, keeping track of these trophies can be a fun and educational exercise. Whether you’re preparing for a quiz, exam, or sports debate, this comprehensive list serves as a handy reference guide. As we look ahead, the future of global sports is bright, with new cups and trophies emerging every year, fueling the competitive spirit worldwide.

MCQ QUESTION WITH EXPLANATIONS

1. The Agha Khan Cup is associated with which sport?
A) Cricket
B) Football
C) Hockey
D) Golf

✅ Correct Answer: C) Hockey
Explanation: The Agha Khan Cup is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious hockey tournaments, established to promote the sport nationally.

2. The Ashes Cup is contested between which two countries?
A) India and Pakistan
B) Australia and England
C) New Zealand and South Africa
D) England and South Africa

✅ Correct Answer: B) Australia and England
Explanation: The Ashes is a historic cricket rivalry played as a Test series between England and Australia, dating back to 1882.

3. The Champions Trophy was associated with which sport before being discontinued in 2018?
A) Football
B) Hockey
C) Baseball
D) Rugby

✅ Correct Answer: B) Hockey
Explanation: The Champions Trophy was a premier international field hockey event, replaced by the FIH Pro League.

4. What is the significance of the Green Jacket in the Augusta Masters?
A) It’s for the runner-up
B) It’s worn by the host
C) It’s awarded to the winner
D) It’s for the oldest player

✅ Correct Answer: C) It’s awarded to the winner
Explanation: The Augusta Masters, a major golf championship, awards the Green Jacket to its champion — a unique tradition in golf trophies.

5. The Borg-Warner Trophy is presented in which motorsport event?
A) Monaco Grand Prix
B) Daytona 500
C) Indianapolis 500
D) Le Mans

✅ Correct Answer: C) Indianapolis 500
Explanation: The Borg-Warner Trophy is given to the winner of the Indy 500, one of the world’s most iconic motorsports races.

6. The BCS Trophy was associated with which version of football?
A) NFL
B) College football (USA)
C) Soccer
D) Arena Football

✅ Correct Answer: B) College football (USA)
Explanation: The BCS Trophy was awarded to the winner of the BCS National Championship in American college football.

7. The Australian Open is part of which tennis circuit?
A) ATP 500
B) Wimbledon
C) Grand Slam
D) Davis Cup

✅ Correct Answer: C) Grand Slam
Explanation: The Australian Open is one of the four Grand Slam tournaments in professional tennis, held annually in Melbourne.

8. Which country hosts the Azlan Shah Cup?
A) India
B) Pakistan
C) Malaysia
D) Indonesia

✅ Correct Answer: C) Malaysia
Explanation: The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup is a men’s hockey tournament hosted in Ipoh, Malaysia.

9. The Calcutta Cup is played between which two rugby teams?
A) India and Bangladesh
B) Australia and South Africa
C) England and Scotland
D) USA and Canada

✅ Correct Answer: C) England and Scotland
Explanation: The Calcutta Cup is an annual rugby union match between England and Scotland, part of the Six Nations Championship.

10. The Bledisloe Cup is contested in which sport?
A) Football
B) Baseball
C) Rugby
D) Cricket

✅ Correct Answer: C) Rugby
Explanation: The Bledisloe Cup is a major rugby trophy competed between Australia and New Zealand.

11. The Burdwan Trophy is related to:
A) Weightlifting
B) Tennis
C) Golf
D) Swimming

✅ Correct Answer: A) Weightlifting
Explanation: The Burdwan Trophy is an Indian event focused on discovering new talent in weightlifting.

12. Which cup is awarded in table tennis in India?
A) Colombo Cup
B) Beighton Cup
C) Bama Belleck Cup
D) Champions Trophy

✅ Correct Answer: C) Bama Belleck Cup
Explanation: The Bama Belleck Cup is a major table tennis tournament in India.

13. The Colombo Cup is a football competition in which region?
A) South America
B) South Asia
C) Europe
D) Africa

✅ Correct Answer: B) South Asia
Explanation: The Colombo Cup is an international football tournament involving South Asian nations.

14. The Beighton Cup is associated with:
A) Badminton
B) Hockey
C) Cricket
D) Tennis

✅ Correct Answer: B) Hockey
Explanation: The Beighton Cup is one of the oldest field hockey tournaments, held in Kolkata, India.

15. What is awarded to the winner of the British Open golf tournament?
A) Wimbledon Plate
B) Ashes Urn
C) Claret Jug
D) Green Jacket

✅ Correct Answer: C) Claret Jug
Explanation: The winner of The Open Championship (British Open) receives the Claret Jug, a legendary symbol in golf trophies.