Top 100 athlete of the 21st century according to ESPN vote

With athletics serving as a unifying force among fans worldwide and defining civilizations, ESPN's list of the best 100 athletes of the twenty-first century perfectly encapsulates what it means to be great. This list honors athletes who have gone above and beyond in their respective sports and had a lasting impact on history. It was assembled by widespread voting. Let's examine some of the most recognizable individuals who have recently influenced sports culture.

 

Serena Williams: The Tennis Titan:

 

With her strong serves and unwavering determination, Serena Williams is the epitome of the game of tennis and a formidable presence on the field. Having won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, her influence goes beyond the game of tennis as she promotes diversity and gender equality.

 

LeBron James: The King of Basketball:

 

LeBron James, who goes by "The King," has revolutionized basketball via his leadership and adaptability. James, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and four-time NBA champion, inspires a great deal of young sportsmen with his influence that goes well beyond his stats.

 

Usain Bolt: The Lightning Bolt:

 

Track & field was transformed by history's fastest man, Usain Bolt. Bolt won eight gold medals at the Olympics, and his charisma and quickness made him a household brand and an icon of sports brilliance.

 

Lionel Messi: The Football Maestro:

 

Lionel Messi is considered one of the greatest football players of all time due to his extraordinary skill and vision. Messi's sorcery on the field has won him multiple Ballon d'Or trophies and he had a legendary career at Barcelona. His ability to enchant people worldwide is unceasing.

Tom Brady: The Quarterback Legend:

 

Tom Brady's NFL career is noteworthy for its seven Super Bowl victories and unmatched durability. His leadership qualities and fierce competitiveness have cemented his place among the all-time great quarterbacks.

 

Michael Phelps: The Swimming Sensation:

 

With 23 gold medals under his belt, Michael Phelps is the most decorated Olympian of all time. A new generation of swimmers has been inspired by his commitment and supremacy in the water.

 

Roger Federer: The Elegant Champion:

 

Roger Federer is a popular among tennis fans because of his elegance and competence on the court. Federer has won 20 Grand Slam titles, and his grace and sportsmanship will always be remembered.

 

Kobe Bryant: The Mamba Mentality:

 

Basketball legend Kobe Bryant was well-known for his unwavering work ethic and intense competition, which earned him the moniker "Mamba Mentality." Bryant's reputation as one of the best players in NBA history was solidified by his clutch plays and scoring power. He won five NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers. A committed philanthropist and storyteller off the court, he inspired innumerable followers all over the world. Generations are still inspired by his influence and passion for the game despite his terrible passing in 2020.

 

 

Tiger Woods: The Golfing Icon:

 

Tiger Woods' unmatched skill and fierce spirit of competition revolutionized the game of golf. He is considered a great figure in golf history due to his unquestionable influence on the game and his 15 major victories.

 

Simone Biles: The Gymnastics Prodigy:

 

With her incredible talent and daring performances, Simone Biles has emerged as the face of gymnastics. Her many medals from the Olympics and World Championships attest to her reputation as one of the greatest athletes of all time.

 

The Impact of these Icons:

 

Only a small portion of the talent recognized in ESPN's rating is embodied by these players. Not only have they all achieved great success in their vocations, but they have also made major contributions to society and their respective sports. Millions of people are inspired and the power of sports is demonstrated by their tales of tenacity, success, and influence.

 

Diverse Talents across Disciplines:

 

Every athlete on this list possesses special skills that have revolutionized their respective sports, whether it be on the tennis courts or the football fields. These athletes epitomize the spirit of competitiveness and excellence, whether it is through their explosive speed as sprinters or their strategic brilliance as quarterbacks.

 

The Influence beyond Sports:

 

Numerous athletes have advocated for change by addressing topics like mental health, gender equality, and racial equality using their platforms. Their voices are heard beyond the realm of athletics, igniting debates and motivating people all across the world to take action.

Only ONE athlete from Britain places in the top 25. ‘Lewis Hamilton’

 

Lewis Hamilton: The F1 Maestro:

 

Formula 1 pioneer Lewis Hamilton is well-known for his unparalleled skill and tenacity. Hamilton has broken multiple records as a seven-time World Champion and is now the most successful British driver in Formula One history. Hamilton, who is well-known for both his advocacy off the track and his remarkable skill on it, has been a strong supporter of diversity and environmental sustainability. He has inspired a new generation of athletes and fans that goes beyond motorsport.

Only ONE boxer manages to sneak his way into the top 25 and that is Floyd Mayweather Jr.

 

Floyd Mayweather Jr.: The Undefeated Champion:

 

Boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. is renowned for his brilliant strategy and flawless defense in the ring. Mayweather dominated several weight classes and won titles in five categories with an undefeated 50-0 record. Known as "Money" for his opulent career and unparalleled success in pay-per-view, his showy demeanor and tactical skill continue to make him a divisive figure. Unquestionably, Mayweather is one of the greatest boxers of all time, and he has had a significant impact on the sport's development.

Cristiano Ronaldo was voted 13th in ESPN's top 100 athletes of the 21st century.

 

Cristiano Ronaldo: The Football Phenomenon:

 

Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in football thanks to his dedication and hard work. Ronaldo has set multiple records and won five Ballon d'Or trophies. His influence is felt both on and off the field.

 

Here are the top 25 athletes from ESPN's definitive ranking of the 21st century:

1) Michael Phelps

2) Serena Williams

3) Lionel Messi

4) LeBron James

5) Tom Brady

6) Roger Federer

7) Simone Biles

8) Tiger Woods

9) Usain Bolt

10) Kobe Bryant

11) Novak Djokovic

12) Rafael Nadal

13) Cristiano Ronaldo

14) Steph Curry

15) Katie Ledecky

16) Tim Duncan

17) Shaquille O'Neal

18) Patrick Mahomes

19) Lewis Hamilton

20) Aaron Donald

21) Diana Taurasi

22) Sidney Crosby

23) Kevin Garnett

24) Albert Pujols

25) Floyd Mayweather Jr.