Is this the most beautiful sporting moment of 2017?

Amid scenes of pandemonium as Bristol City shocked Manchester United was a touching moment between coach and ballboy.

Socceroo Bailey Wright captained unfancied Bristol to a stunning last-gasp upset over EPL heavyweights United to reach the Carabao Cup semi-finals on Thursday morning.

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Midfielder Korey Smith's 93rd-minute goal handed the Robins a 2-1 win at home, sparking absolute chaos as fans jumped for joy in the stands before rushing onto the field to celebrate with players after full-time.

As Smith's strike hit the back of the net, Bristol manager Lee Johnson ran down the sideline with delight before picking up a nearby ballboy and twirling him around a number of times.

The scenes of absolute joy for the minnow side will undoubtedly go down as one of the most beautiful sporting moments of 2017.

"They were absolutely outstanding to a man and to beat Manchester United at home is incredible," Johnson said.

"It's been a long, long time since we've had a result like that, particularly at Ashton Gate, and I'm chuffed. Chuffed to bits.

"Korey Smith was dying on his feet. The lads didn't want to go into extra time. The lads managed to get it to him in the box and a great little finish."

Smith's late effort, assisted by a through ball from Matty Taylor, sent Bristol into a showdown with runaway English Premier League frontrunners Manchester City.

The sides will meet over two legs on January 9 and 23, while Arsenal and Chelsea will contest the English Football League competition's other semi-final.

Was Johnson's moment with the ballboy the most touching of 2017? Here are a few other contenders:

In January we witnessed the great Roger Federer embrace wife Mikra after winning his 18th grand slam title at the Australian Open.

It was a rare insight into the Swiss legend's personal life.

The London marathon played host to an incredible moment in April.

A runner went viral when he sacrificed his own chances of victory to help a struggling rival who could barely stay on his feet.

And Rafael Nadal produced an amazing moment of sportsmanship in May when he came to the aid of an injured opponent.

Nadal jumped the net and helped Almagro back to his chair after his compatriot could no longer continue due to injury.

with AAP