Most Influential Sports Personalities of the 21st Century

David Beckham transcends the sporting arena, becoming a global icon whose influence extends to fashion, marketing, and popular culture. His ability to capitalize on his image and personal brand has redefined what it means to be a sports celebrity in the 21st century, inspiring generations of athletes to explore opportunities beyond the playing field.

• Helps children dream big

• UEFA Player of the Year

• Champions League winner

• Six-time English champion

Bill Belichick has redefined American football strategy and culture, achieving unprecedented success as a head coach. His methodical approach and dynasty-building capabilities have left an indelible mark on the sport, influencing generations of coaches and players.

• Influence on several coaches

• Legacy will endure long after he has stopped coaching

• Coach champion of six Super Bowl championships

Shaquille O'Neal has exerted considerable influence on sports and popular culture in the 21st century, thanks to his unparalleled charisma and on-court dominance. His impact transcends basketball, establishing him as a far-reaching media and business figure.

• Won four NBA championships

• 2000 Season MVP

• Eight-time All-NBA First Team selection

• Three-time Finals MVP

Serena Williams has redefined women's tennis with her unprecedented dominance and longevity, inspiring millions through her strength and resilience on the court. Her impact transcends the sport, making her a cultural icon and a role model for her activism and empowerment.

• Holds the record for 23 Grand Slam singles titles in the Open Era among women

• Won three consecutive Grand Slam tournaments in 2002

• Six-time US Open champion

• Seven-time Wimbledon champion

Pep Guardiola has redefined tactics and playing style in modern football, profoundly influencing how strategies are conceived and executed in the sport. His sustained success across multiple elite leagues and clubs demonstrates a lasting impact and an ability to inspire generations of coaches and players.

• Lionel Messi recognizes him as his great mentor

• Considered one of the most influential football coaches of the 21st century

• His lasting influence on football is undeniable

• A 21st-century Barça, modern, overwhelming, young and charismatic, universal and seemingly invulnerable

Stephen A. Smith has redefined sports journalism with his bold style and strong opinions, becoming a central figure in the daily sports conversation. His platform on ESPN allows him to reach millions of viewers, significantly influencing public perception and debate on the most relevant sports topics.

• Emotional commentary style

• Draws in viewers

• Encourages interaction

Simone Biles has redefined artistic gymnastics with her unprecedented dominance and the introduction of innovative, namesake skills. Beyond her athletic achievements, her bravery in prioritizing her mental health on the world stage has inspired countless athletes and sparked crucial conversations about well-being in sports.

• Reconnected mind and body after a block

• Prioritizes her mental well-being

• Challenges the boundaries of gymnastics

• Sparked a global conversation that transcends sport

Tom Brady stands out as one of the most influential sports personalities of the 21st century due to his unprecedented longevity at the elite level of American football and his ability to redefine success at the quarterback position. His sustained dominance, multiple championships, and extended career have left an indelible mark on the sport and popular culture, inspiring generations of athletes and fans.

• Named five-time Super Bowl MVP

• League MVP in 2007 and 2010

• Legacy filled with impressive achievements

• NFL touchdown leader in five seasons

LeBron James has redefined sports influence through his exceptional on-court longevity and his significant off-court social impact. His activism and commitment to community causes, coupled with sustained athletic dominance, establish him as an emblematic figure of the 21st century.

• Has won the NBA Regular Season MVP award four times

• Most Playoff wins

• Has appeared in the NBA Finals 10 times

• Only player to win Finals MVP with three different franchises