2024: A Landmark Year in Sports Medicine and Baseball
As we bid farewell to 2024, I’m struck by the incredible journey this year has been — filled with innovation, historic milestones, and unforgettable moments in sports medicine and baseball. From celebrating my mentor Dr. Frank Jobe and the 50th anniversary of Tommy John Surgery to experiencing the thrill of the World Series, this year reaffirmed why I am so passionate about the work I do.
Join me as I look back on the highlights of this landmark year and the impact we’ve made together.
Celebrating the Legacy of Tommy John Surgery: 50 Years of Innovation
This year marked the 50th anniversary of Tommy John Surgery, a groundbreaking procedure that changed the trajectory of countless careers and lives. I was privileged to train under the pioneering Dr. Frank Jobe, who performed the first-ever UCL reconstruction in 1974. His work continues to inspire me and I think about his legacy, and him, on a daily basis.
2024 was particularly special as it also marked the global introduction of Triple Tommy John (TJ3), a revolutionary advancement in UCL surgery that I’ve had the honor of developing & performing. The idea behind TJ3 is simple yet groundbreaking: by combining precision medicine with advanced surgical techniques like the internal brace, we’re empowering athletes to recover faster, perform better, and extend their careers.
The response to TJ3 has been overwhelming. I’ll never forget the moment when my blog series and infographic teaser went viral. The conversations it sparked among players, parents, and coaches were a testament to the ever-growing hunger for progress & evolution in sports medicine.
One story from this week that sticks with me is that of a young athlete I met during spring training. After suffering a devastating UCL tear, he recently shared with me how TJ3 gave him hope for not just recovery but also a brighter future on the mound. Stories like his remind me why innovation matters and why we can never stop striving for better outcomes that are tailored to the individual athlete and their unique needs.
Advancing Sports Medicine Through Research and Collaboration
2024 was also a year of major breakthroughs in research. One of the highlights was presenting at the ASES Conference, where my incredible team unveiled new data on the impact of advanced pitching analytics on Tommy John Surgery outcomes. These findings challenge the traditional approach to recovery and provide data-driven insights that can optimize how athletes return to play.
Social media as always became an invaluable tool in spreading these insights far and wide. Weekly posts under the #ThrowingThursdays campaign series allowed us to connect with a much broader audience, sharing knowledge about UCL injury risk and recovery with players, parents, and coaches around the globe with remarkable impact.
These posts were more than just content — they were conversations. Your comments, questions, and shared experiences helped shape the dialogue and ensured that these insights reached the people who needed them most.
Unforgettable Moments with the New York Yankees
As the Head Team Physician for the New York Yankees, I’m privileged to witness the highs and lows of professional baseball firsthand. This year was nothing short of spectacular, as we clinched the ALCS and fought our way to the World Series.
Some of my favorite memories came from these moments: standing on the field as the team celebrated their ALCS win, capturing photos at Dodger Stadium, and joining the team during champagne-soaked celebrations. These moments underscore why we pour so much effort into keeping athletes healthy and performing at their best.
One particularly poignant personal moment was reflecting on the journey of the players who had undergone Tommy John Surgery to make it back to the field. Watching them succeed at the highest level is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of modern sports medicine.
Baseball Sports Medicine: Game Changing Concepts Conference
One of the standout events this year was the Baseball Sports Medicine: Game Changing Concepts Conference, which I co-hosted in New York City alongside Dr. Tony Romeo. With a sold-out in-person audience and robust virtual attendance, this two-day event brought together world-class MLB team physicians, physical therapists, ATs, and strength & conditioning coaches to discuss innovative approaches to athlete care.
The focus of the conference was on the needs of amateur, collegiate, and high school baseball athletes. We explored topics ranging from injury prevention strategies to advanced surgical techniques and cutting-edge rehab protocols. The collaboration and exchange of ideas were nothing short of inspiring.
It was a privilege to help foster a space where the brightest minds in sports medicine could come together to learn and grow. The overwhelming feedback we received highlighted the importance of these conversations in shaping the future of baseball player health.
Building a Community of Care and Mentorship
Beyond the headlines and milestones, 2024 was also about giving back. I had the privilege of supporting several initiatives that matter deeply to me, including:
- Advancing Concussion Research and Supporting Prevention & Awareness Charities — Concussions remain one of the most pressing issues in sports, affecting athletes at every level in almost every sport. In 2024, I deepened my commitment to advancing concussion research and supporting organizations dedicated to concussion awareness and care
- Mentoring Columbia Men’s Soccer Alumni — Over recent years we have created and developed an active pipeline of research opportunities for men’s soccer pre-med students as part of my elite scientific team. Most have gone on to outstanding medical schools and are thriving in their pursuits of excellence.
- Empowering Mobility Through Crutches 4 Kids — Crutches are more than a medical device — they’re a bridge to education, social connection, and opportunity. Through partnerships with hospitals, schools, and community organizations we work to raise awareness about the global need for mobility and the life-changing impact they can have!
- Promoting Player Safety Through Baseball Health Network — I’ve dedicated much of my life and career to ensuring the safety and well-being of baseball players at every level. BHN serves as a platform to educate players, parents, and coaches about injury prevention, performance enhancement, and overall health in the sport. As we head into 2025 I am excited to expand BHN’s reach and continue fostering a culture of smart, safe baseball for generations to come.
The theme across all these efforts was clear: community & mentorship. Whether it’s teaching, speaking, honoring, or supporting the next generation of leaders in sport and sports medicine, this work is about lifting each other up and building a stronger future together.
Personal Reflections and Looking Ahead
As I reflect on this whirlwind year, one thing stands out above all else: the people. From the athletes & patients who inspire me with their determination to the researchers and clinicians who push the boundaries of what’s possible, this year has been a reminder that we’re all in this together.
One particularly moving moment came from a young athlete still in the midst of recovering from a UCL injury. When he told me that TJ3 gave him hope — not just for recovery but for regaining his love for the game — it reinforced why I do what I do. Innovation isn’t just about science or technique; it’s about creating possibilities for people to chase their dreams.
As we head into 2025, I’m excited to continue pushing the envelope in sports medicine. Whether it’s expanding the conversation around UCL injury risk, unveiling new research, or simply celebrating the love of the game, there’s so much more to come.
How Did 2024 Inspire You?
Now, I’d love to hear from you. What were your standout moments in 2024? How did this year inspire you to push your own boundaries?
Share your stories in the comments or tag me — I’d love to connect and keep the conversation going.
Here’s to Health, Success, and Innovation in 2025!
Thank you for being part of this journey and for making 2024 a year to remember. Together, we’re not just advancing sports medicine — we’re shaping the future of the game.
Dr. Ahmad’s Practice: https://www.drahmadsportsmedicine.com/our-practice/about-dr-ahmad/
New York Yankees: https://www.drahmadsportsmedicine.com/our-practice/ny-yankees-team-physician/
