As of my last update in September 2021, the top three sports in terms of global popularity and participation are:
Soccer (Football): Soccer, known as football in many countries, is the world's most popular sport. It is played and watched by millions of people in almost every country. The FIFA World Cup, held every four years, is one of the most-watched sporting events globally.
Cricket: Cricket is particularly popular in countries like India, Pakistan, England, Australia, and other parts of the Commonwealth. It has a massive following and attracts large crowds during major tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup and various domestic leagues.
Basketball: Basketball's popularity has soared worldwide, partly due to the NBA's global appeal and the impressive performances of international players in the league. The sport has gained significant popularity not only in the United States but also in countries across Europe, Asia, and South America.
Please note that sports popularity can change over time, and there may have been shifts or changes since my last update. Additionally, regional preferences can influence the popularity of sports, so the top sports may vary in different parts of the world.