China became a member of the World Trade Organization on December 11, 2001. This accession was a significant milestone in the global economy, integrating one of the world's largest markets into the international trading system.

In 2001, the United Nations and its Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. They were recognized for their work for a better organized and more peaceful world, highlighting their efforts in human rights and the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Peter Carey won for 'Oscar and Lucinda' (1988) and 'True History of the Kelly Gang' (2001).

Booker-McConnell was a food wholesale company; the prize was known as the Booker-McConnell Prize until 2001.

Boris Becker became the first unseeded player (and the youngest at the time) to win Wimbledon in 1985 at age 17. (Note: Ivanisevic won as a wildcard in 2001, but Becker was the first unseeded champion).

Barry Bonds hit 73 home runs in the 2001 season, though his records are often debated due to steroid allegations.

Goran Ivanisevic won Wimbledon in 2001 as a wildcard ranked No. 125 in the world.

Australian Archie Thompson scored 13 goals in a single match against American Samoa in 2001 (Australia won 31-0).

Chaminda Vaas took 8 wickets for 19 runs against Zimbabwe in 2001, the best figures in ODI history.

Australia holds the record for the most consecutive Test wins (16), achieving the feat twice (1999-2001 and 2005-2008).