Greatness in sports is a status that only very few reach, however to be labeled the greatest athletes of all time is for that one soul individual who excels at all aspects of the game and exceeds every other player in that sport.
In the annals of sports, only few names rise to the level of true greatness worthy of being called the Greatest Athletes Of All Time. These athletes transcended records and awards, creating legacies that have shaped their sports and inspired fans worldwide.
Greatest Athletes Of All Time
In this article by Sports Buddy, we detailed the top 10 Greatest Athletes Of All Time, honoring their achievements; influence and lasting impact. However, this is an ever-evolving list, because greatness is often subjective. Although some may argue, these individuals left indelible marks on their respective sports.
10. Cristiano Ronaldo (Football)
Cristiano Ronaldo known not only for his scoring prowess, is also recognized for his unwavering dedication and physical excellence making him one of the greatest athletes of all time. This has allowed him to remain at the peak of the sport well into his late 30s.
Over his illustrious career, Ronaldo has played in the Premier League, La Liga and Serie A breaking records and claiming numerous titles in each. His five Ballon d’Or awards stand as a testament to his consistent excellence; however, his five UEFA Champions League titles coupled with multiple league titles solidify his status among soccer’s greatest.
Despite these, Ronaldo’s impact extends beyond his skill on the pitch, he has become a global icon influencing aspiring athletes and raising the profile of soccer worldwide because of this cementing his stand as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
9. Usain Bolt (Track and Field)
Usain Bolt often referred to as the “Lightning Bolt” revolutionized sprinting due to his electrifying speed and showmanship. His achievements include setting world records in both the 100 meters (9.58 seconds) and 200 meters (19.19 seconds), records that have yet to be matched.
Bolt dominated the sprints during the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games; he won eight Olympic gold medals and captivated audiences with each stride. However, beyond his physical prowess, Bolt’s charisma brought renewed attention to track and field, making him an international superstar and an inspiration to athletes worldwide.
Although some may argue that talent alone could not achieve such success, this perspective overlooks the dedication and hard work he put forth. But, it is precisely this combination of attributes that solidified his legacy in the sport thereby making him on of the greatest athletes of all time.
8. Pele (Football)
Brazilian legend Pele, often hailed as “The King of Football” achieved greatness through his skill, vision and scoring ability. Over his 20-year career, Pele scored more than 1,000 goals and played a pivotal role in Brazil’s dominance on the world stage.
He helped his country win three FIFA World Cups (1958, 1962 and 1970)—a record that still stands making him deserving as spot as one of the greatest athletes of all time. Known for his innovative playing style, Pele redefined the sport; elevating it globally and setting standards that generations of players strive to match. His influence went beyond the pitch because he promoted soccer worldwide and became a lasting symbol of excellence and sportsmanship.
However, this legacy is not merely about statistics, but about the profound impact he had on the game itself. Although many aspire to emulate his prowess, few can replicate the essence of what he represented.
7. Serena Williams (Tennis)
Serena Williams is synonymous with power, resilience and unparalleled dominance in women’s tennis. With 23 Grand Slam singles titles (the most in the Open Era) and four Olympic gold medals, her achievements serve as a testament to her skill and determination.
Williams’ aggressive playing style, coupled with her mental toughness, allowed her to dominate for over 2 decades, reshaping women’s tennis and setting a new standard for future generations a feat worthy of one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Off the court, she has used her platform to advocate for gender equality and social justice; this solidifies her legacy as one of the most influential figures in sports history. However, although her dominance was evident, it was her advocacy that truly set her apart.
6. Lionel Messi (Football)
Lionel Messi widely celebrated as one of the greatest soccer players ever and one of the greatest athletes of all time, is known for unparalleled dribbling, precise vision and incredible consistency.
Messi’s legacy was largely built during his years at FC Barcelona: he won a record eight Ballon d’Or awards, four UEFA Champions League titles and numerous La Liga championships. His victory with Argentina at the 2022 FIFA world cup cemented his status in the sport, as he delivered his country’s second major international title in nearly three decades.
Known for humility and dedication, Messi has become a global icon whose influence on and off the field has inspired millions; this solidifies his position among the very best.
5. Michael Phelps (Swimming)
Michael Phelps is arguably the most decorated Olympian in history, with incredible 28 medals: 23 of which are golds, across five Olympic Games. Known for his versatility and endurance, Phelps excelled in multiple strokes and distances—dominating international swimming for over a decade.
His performance at the 2008 Beijing Olympics where he won eight gold medals set a new standard of excellence in the sport. Beyond his physical achievements, Phelps’s influence extends to mental health advocacy; he has shared personal challenges to encourage awareness.
His career serves as benchmark for aspiring swimmers worldwide consequently making him on of the greatest athletes of all time.
4. Babe Ruth (Baseball)
Babe Ruth the “Sultan of Swat”, is a legendary figure in baseball, famous for his powerful hitting and magnetic personality. Ruth’s career included 714 home runs—a record that stood for decades—and he set enduring benchmarks for slugging percentage and on-base plus slugging (OPS).
Known for his larger-than-life persona, Ruth helped transform baseball from low-scoring pastime into thrilling spectacle, cementing it as America’s favorite sport.
His legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time remains unmatched; he is remembered not only as top player, however, as cultural icon who shaped future of the game.
3. Muhammad Ali (Boxing)
Muhammad Ali is celebrated not only for his boxing skill which is a remarkable feat, but also for his courage, wit and social impact. Ali’s accomplishments in the ring include three heavyweight championships, with fights like the “Rumble in the Jungle” and “Thrilla in Manila” becoming historic events cementing his spot as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Known for his lightning-fast reflexes which were astonishing and memorable “float like a butterfly, sting like a bee” style, Ali’s talent was matched only by his conviction outside the ring. He used his platform to champion civil rights, standing by his beliefs, even when it cost him his title.
Ali’s blend of athleticism and activism made him “The Greatest” in every sense; transcending boxing and leaving an enduring legacy. However, this combination of skills and beliefs set him apart from many athletes of his time.
2. LeBron James (Basketball)
LeBron James, one of the most versatile and dominant players in basketball, has set a standard of excellence for the modern game. With four NBA championships, four MVP awards and numerous records—because he is the youngest to reach several scoring milestones—LeBron’s achievements are unparalleled.
Known for his ability to excel in scoring, passing and defense, his success spans multiple teams and decades making him one of the greatest athletes of all time. Off the court, LeBron’s influence extends to education with his “I PROMISE” School and he remains a strong advocate for social justice issues.
His remarkable longevity, skill and leadership make him one of the most impactful athletes of the 21st century; however, this does not overshadow the challenges he has faced. Although many admire him, critics argue that his influence can be polarizing. But, it is undeniable that his contributions to both sports and society are significant.
1. Michael Jordan (Basketball)
The greatest athletes of all time is Michael Jordan who is arguably the benchmark of greatness in sports. He’s celebrated for his skill, mental toughness and influence on and off the basketball court.
Over his career, he led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships, earning Finals MVP honors each time setting countless records. Jordan’s drive and competitiveness are best displayed in unforgettable moments like the “Flu Game”, they transformed the way basketball was played and perceived.
His influence stretches beyond sports—his Air Jordan brand revolutionized fashion and sneaker culture, making him a global icon. Jordan’s legacy remains unmatched, making him the ultimate symbol of greatness and inspiration for athletes across the globe.
