Discover the women who have left an indelible mark on global sports. This ranking celebrates female athletes who have broken barriers, set records, and become true legends. From pioneers to Olympic champions, explore their achievements and the lasting impact they've had on sports history. Ideal for sports fans, students, and anyone interested in female excellence.
Winner of ten Grand Slam tournaments
(+4)
Althea Gibson broke racial barriers in tennis by becoming the first African American athlete to win a Grand Slam title. Her victory at Wimbledon in 1957 not only crowned her a champion but also opened doors for future generations of athletes of color.
First American athlete to win three gold medals in the same Olympic Games
(+4)
Wilma Rudolph is an iconic figure for her extraordinary resilience and unprecedented athletic achievements. Overcoming childhood polio and paralysis, she became the first American woman to win three track and field gold medals at the Olympic Games, a milestone that inspired generations.
Won the Women's World Cup twice
(+4)
Mia Hamm is an iconic figure who redefined women's soccer, inspiring generations with her exceptional skill and on-field leadership. Her success and visibility helped propel women's sports to new heights, marking a significant milestone in its history.
Shatters all records, accumulating 25 World Championship medals
(+4)
Simone Biles is an iconic figure in women's sports for her unprecedented dominance in artistic gymnastics, breaking records and raising the bar for what is possible. Furthermore, her courage in prioritizing her mental health on the world stage has inspired countless athletes and initiated crucial conversations about well-being in sports.
Broke the Olympic record twice in Seoul
(+4)
Florence Griffith Joyner is an iconic figure in women's sports thanks to her world records in the 100 and 200-meter sprints, marks that still stand today. Her distinctive style and charisma made her a symbol of empowerment and success, inspiring generations of athletes.
All the rankings you can imagine
Thousands of verified votes to discover the best. Your vote here counts
She is one of the greatest swimmers of all time
(+4)
Katie Ledecky has rewritten the record books in swimming, setting multiple world records and winning an unprecedented number of Olympic and World Championship medals. Her sustained dominance and impact on the popularity of women's swimming solidify her as an iconic figure who has made a significant mark on sports history.
Considered one of the greatest tennis players
(+3)
Billie Jean King is an iconic figure in women's sports for her tireless fight for gender equality and for winning the historic "Battle of the Sexes" in 1973. Her activism and on-court achievements established her as a pioneer who paved the way for future generations of athletes.
First woman to run a marathon with a bib
(+4)
Kathrine Switzer is an athletic icon for being the first woman to officially complete the Boston Marathon in 1967, defying the rules of the time that prohibited female participation. Her determination and bravery paved the way for countless women in the world of long-distance running.
Won 59 Grand Slam titles
(+4)
Martina Navratilova is an iconic figure for her unprecedented dominance in women's tennis, accumulating a record 18 Grand Slam singles titles and 31 in doubles. Her longevity and activism for LGBTQ+ rights also make her a milestone for women's sports and society.
First woman to swim across the English Channel
(+4)
Gertrude Ederle is iconic for being the first woman to swim across the English Channel in 1926, a monumental achievement that defied expectations and showcased extraordinary endurance and determination. Her feat not only broke physical barriers but also inspired countless women to pursue their own limits in sports and beyond.