In the dynamic world of sports, the achievements of female athletes have long been overshadowed by their male counterparts. However, over the years, numerous extraordinary women have risen to the top, breaking barriers, setting records, and inspiring generations to come. In this article, we celebrate the legacy of 20 of the greatest female athletes of all time, highlighting their achievements, impact on their respective sports, and the enduring legacy they leave behind.
1. Serena Williams – Tennis Legend
When discussing the greatest female athletes of all time, Serena Williams undoubtedly takes center stage. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Williams has amassed an astonishing 23 Grand Slam singles titles, cementing her status as one of the greatest tennis players in history. Her powerful serves, unmatched agility, and mental toughness on the court have not only revolutionized women’s tennis but have also shattered numerous records. Serena Williams exemplifies the true essence of a ‘greatest female athlete.’
Key Profile Details
- Age: 44 (born September 26, 1981).
- Sport: Tennis (retired 2022).
- Net Worth: beyond $290 million
- Primary Income Sources: Endorsements (Nike, Gatorade, etc.), venture capital investments via Serena Ventures, and business ventures.
- Notable Work: Founded Serena Ventures (invested in 60+ companies like MasterClass, Fenty Beauty); backed 14 unicorn companies; minority stakes in sports teams; fashion line.
- Instagram Followers: 18.1 million
know more: Serena Williams: Need We Say More?
2. Simone Biles – Gymnastics Prodigy
In the realm of gymnastics, Simone Biles stands as a testament to the heights that can be reached through dedication and talent. With a total of 41 Olympic and World Championship medals, including 23 golds, Biles is widely regarded as the most decorated gymnast of all time. Her unparalleled athleticism, innovation in routines, and unyielding determination make her a prime example of a ‘greatest female athlete’ who has left an indelible mark on the world of sports.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 28 (born March 14, 1997).
- Sport: Gymnastics (artistic).
- Net Worth: Approximately $25 million (2026 estimate).
- Primary Income Sources: Endorsements (Athleta, Nike, Visa, Uber Eats), sponsorships, appearance fees.
- Notable Work: Mental health advocacy; partnerships like Athleta clothing line, Nulo Pet Food campaign; Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year (4x, latest 2025).
- Instagram Followers: 12 million
3. Marta – Soccer Sensation
Often referred to as the “Pele in Skirts,” Marta is a Brazilian soccer sensation whose prowess on the field has earned her the title of the greatest female footballer of all time. With six FIFA World Player of the Year awards and numerous records, Marta has transcended boundaries, proving that greatness knows no gender. Her impact on women’s soccer has paved the way for future generations, solidifying her place as one of the ‘greatest female athletes.’
Key Profile Details
- Age: 39 (born February 19, 1986).
- Sport: Soccer (forward, currently with Orlando Pride in NWSL through 2026).
- Net Worth: Estimated $5-10 million (primarily from career earnings, endorsements).
- Primary Income Sources: NWSL salary (Orlando Pride), international appearances, endorsements (Puma, others).
- Notable Work: Six-time FIFA World Player of the Year (2006–10, 2018); Olympic silvers (2004, 2008, 2024); NWSL champion with Orlando Pride (2024); advocates for women’s soccer growth.
- Instagram Followers: 2.8 million
4. Jackie Joyner-Kersee – Track and Field Icon
Jackie Joyner-Kersee, a track and field legend, dominated the heptathlon and long jump events throughout her career. Her unparalleled athleticism earned her six Olympic medals, including three golds. Joyner-Kersee’s versatility and consistency in excelling across multiple disciplines showcase her as a prime example of the ‘greatest female athlete’ who has left an enduring legacy in the world of track and field.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 63 (born March 3, 1962).
- Sport: Track and field (heptathlon, long jump); also basketball.
- Net Worth: $2.5 million.
- Primary Income Sources: Past athletic earnings, endorsements, speaking engagements, and foundation-related activities.
- Notable Work: Founder of Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation (youth athletics, education, food security via JJK FAN Center); co-founder of Athletes for Hope; USATF board member; advocates for children’s education and racial equality.
- Instagram Followers: 40,600
5. Billie Jean King – Tennis Pioneer
A trailblazer for women in tennis, Billie Jean King not only dominated on the court but also played a pivotal role in advocating for gender equality in sports. With 39 Grand Slam titles to her name, King’s impact extends far beyond her impressive tennis record. She famously defeated Bobby Riggs in the iconic “Battle of the Sexes” match, highlighting the prowess of female athletes and their ability to compete at the highest levels.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 82 (born November 22, 1943).
- Sport: Tennis (retired from professional play).
- Net Worth: Approximately $20–22 million (2026 estimates from past career earnings).
- Primary Income Sources: Past tournament winnings, endorsements, speaking fees, investments, and media appearances.
- Notable Work: Founder of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA); co-founder of World TeamTennis; advocate for Title IX and LGBTQ+ rights; Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient; continues as sports ambassador and author.
- Instagram Followers: 1.4 million
6. Abby Wambach – Soccer Icon
Abby Wambach, a towering figure in women’s soccer, boasts an impressive career that includes two Olympic gold medals and a FIFA Women’s World Cup victory. Wambach’s goal-scoring prowess and leadership on the field have made her one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ in soccer history. Her dedication to the sport and advocacy for equality have inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams without limitations.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 45 (born June 2, 1980).
- Sport: Soccer (forward, retired 2015).
- Net Worth: Approximately $4 million.
- Primary Income Sources: Soccer career earnings, endorsements, book sales, speaking engagements.
- Notable Work: Author of bestsellers Forward (memoir) and Wolfpack; podcaster (The Goal Mentor); advocate for women’s equality and leadership; six-time U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year.
- Instagram Followers: 1.1 million
7. Althea Gibson – Tennis Pioneer
Long before the Williams sisters dominated the tennis scene, Althea Gibson made history as the first African American woman to win a Grand Slam title. Gibson’s triumphs at the French Open, Wimbledon, and the U.S. Nationals paved the way for future generations of female athletes of color. Her impact on the sport transcends the court, making her an undeniable part of the pantheon of ‘greatest female athletes.’
Key Profile Details
- Deceased (August 25, 1927 – September 28, 2003).
- Sport: Tennis (professional, retired 1958).
- Primary Income Sources: Tournament prizes, early pro exhibitions, endorsements (e.g., Harlem Globetrotters tours), later state clerk job.
- Notable Work: First Black player at U.S. Nationals (1950) and Wimbledon (1951); 11 major titles (5 singles: French 1956, Wimbledon 1957-58, U.S. 1957-58); AP Female Athlete of the Year (1957-58); broke racial barriers in tennis.
8. Florence Griffith-Joyner – Sprinting Legend
Florence Griffith-Joyner, often known as Flo-Jo, left an indelible mark on track and field with her extraordinary sprinting abilities. Holding the world records for the 100m and 200m, Flo-Jo’s legacy is etched in the annals of sports history. Her style, speed, and unattainable records make her one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ ever to grace the track, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire sprinters around the globe.
Key Profile Details
- Deceased (December 21, 1959 – September 21, 1998).
- Sport: Track and field (sprints: 100m, 200m, relays).
- Primary Income Sources: Olympic/tournament prizes, endorsements (Nike, others), media deals post-1988 Olympics.
- Notable Work: 3 Olympic golds (1988: 100m, 200m, 4x100m relay), 1 silver (4x400m); 1988 Sullivan Award; founded foundation for underprivileged children; co-chaired President’s Council on Physical Fitness (1993-1995).
9. Nadia Comăneci – Gymnastics Perfection
Nadia Comăneci, a gymnastics prodigy from Romania, achieved perfection at the 1976 Montreal Olympics by earning the first-ever perfect 10.0 score. Comăneci’s flawless routines and technical precision revolutionized gymnastics, earning her five Olympic gold medals. Her impact on the sport is immeasurable, solidifying her place as one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ in the history of gymnastics.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 64 (born November 12, 1961).
- Sport: Gymnastics (artistic, retired 1984).
- Net Worth: Approximately $5 million.
- Primary Income Sources: Gymnastics academy ownership, production company, speaking engagements, lifetime pension from Romania, and endorsements.
- Notable Work: Co-owns Bart Conner Gymnastics Academy; motivational speaker; 2026 documentary subject (with Simone Biles, Arnold Schwarzenegger); promotes gymnastics and social projects; 2026 declared “Year of Nadia Comăneci” in Romania.
- Instagram Followers: 27,300
10. Mia Hamm – Soccer Trailblazer
Mia Hamm, a pioneer in women’s soccer, played a pivotal role in popularizing and elevating the sport to unprecedented heights. With two Olympic gold medals and two FIFA Women’s World Cup victories, Hamm’s goal-scoring prowess and leadership on the field have left an indelible mark on women’s soccer. Her legacy extends beyond the pitch, inspiring countless young girls to pursue their dreams in a male-dominated field.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 53 (born March 17, 1972).
- Sport: Soccer (forward, retired 2004).
- Net Worth: Approximately $40 million.
- Primary Income Sources: Soccer earnings, endorsements (Nike, Gatorade), investments with husband Nomar Garciaparra.
- Notable Work: Founder of Mia Hamm Foundation (bone marrow research); two-time FIFA World Player of the Year (2001, 2002); holds U.S. record for international goals until 2013 (158); co-owner of Los Angeles Dodgers stake.
- Instagram Followers: 83,200
11. Steffi Graf – Tennis Maestro
Steffi Graf’s dominance in tennis during the late 1980s and early 1990s remains unparalleled. With 22 Grand Slam singles titles, including a Golden Slam in 1988, Graf’s versatility and precision on the court have solidified her status as one of the greatest female athletes in tennis history. Graf’s impact transcends her era, inspiring subsequent generations of tennis players to strive for greatness.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 56 (born June 14, 1969).
- Sport: Tennis (retired 1999).
- Net Worth: Approximately $145 million.
- Primary Income Sources: Tournament winnings, endorsements (Adidas lifetime deal), investments.
- Notable Work: WTA record 377 weeks at No. 1; married to Andre Agassi; philanthropist via Andre Agassi Charitable Foundation; advocates for children’s education.
12. Danica Patrick – Racing Trailblazer
In the male-dominated world of motorsports, Danica Patrick broke barriers and paved the way for female drivers. As the first woman to win an IndyCar Series race, Patrick’s accomplishments on the track have inspired a new generation of female racecar drivers. Her resilience and determination make her a shining example of a ‘greatest female athlete’ who defied stereotypes and excelled in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 43 (born March 25, 1982).
- Sport: Auto racing (IndyCar 2005-2011, 2018; NASCAR Cup 2012-2018; retired).
- Net Worth: Approximately $80 million.
- Primary Income Sources: Racing prizes, endorsements (GoDaddy, others), media, business ventures.
- Notable Work: 2008 Indy Japan 300 winner (first woman in IndyCar); 2013 Daytona 500 pole; wine brand Somnium; athleisure “Warrior by Danica Patrick”; podcast Pretty Intense; TV analyst (NBC Indy 500, Sky F1).
- Instagram Followers: 1 million
13. Wilma Rudolph – Sprinting Pioneer
Wilma Rudolph, a sprinting pioneer, overcame numerous challenges to become the first American woman to win three gold medals in track and field at a single Olympic Games. Rudolph’s achievements at the 1960 Rome Olympics showcased her speed and resilience, making her an enduring symbol of inspiration for aspiring athletes. Rudolph’s impact on women’s sprinting solidifies her place as one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ in history.
Key Profile Details
- Deceased (June 23, 1940 – November 12, 1994).
- Sport: Track and field (sprints: 100m, 200m, 4x100m relay).
- Primary Income Sources: Olympic prizes, appearances, teaching/coaching post-retirement.
- Notable Work: 3x gold (1960 Rome: 100m, 200m, 4x100m relay), bronze (1956 Melbourne relay); world records in 100m/200m; coach/teacher; founded Wilma Rudolph Foundation for youth athletics.
14. Chris Evert – Tennis Icon
Chris Evert’s dominance in women’s tennis during the 1970s and 1980s is a testament to her consistency and skill on the court. With 18 Grand Slam singles titles and a remarkable win-loss record, Evert’s influence on the game is immeasurable. Her rivalry with Martina Navratilova is etched in tennis history, contributing to the sport’s popularity. Evert’s legacy as one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ endures, inspiring tennis players across generations.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 71 (born December 21, 1954).
- Sport: Tennis (retired 1989).
- Net Worth: Approximately $16 million.
- Primary Income Sources: Tournament winnings, endorsements (Wilson, others), broadcasting (ESPN analyst).
- Notable Work: Evert Tennis Academy founder; ESPN tennis commentator; philanthropist (Chris Evert/Raymond James Children’s Tennis Foundation); Presidential Medal of Freedom (2024).
- Instagram Followers: 98,800
15. Ronda Rousey – MMA Trailblazer
Ronda Rousey’s impact on the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) cannot be overstated. As the first woman to sign with the UFC, Rousey paved the way for female fighters and brought mainstream attention to women’s MMA. Her dominance in the bantamweight division, coupled with her charisma and determination, has left an indelible mark on the sport. Rousey’s contributions make her a true ‘greatest female athlete’ in the world of combat sports.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 38 (born February 1, 1987).
- Sport: MMA (UFC bantamweight champion 2012-2015), judo (Olympic bronze 2008), pro wrestling (WWE).
- Net Worth: Approximately $13-14 million.
- Primary Income Sources: UFC/WWE contracts, PPV bonuses, endorsements (Reebok, Monster, Carl’s Jr.), acting, book sales.
- Notable Work: UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion (6 defenses); WWE Raw/SmackDown Women’s Champion; films (Furious 7, Expendables 3); autobiography Our Fight; first woman to headline WrestleMania main event.
- Instagram Followers: 16.9 million
16. Bonnie Blair – Speed Skating Champion
Bonnie Blair, a speed skating sensation, is one of the most decorated Winter Olympians in history. With six Olympic medals and multiple world records, Blair’s unparalleled speed and precision on the ice have solidified her legacy as one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ in the realm of winter sports. Her accomplishments continue to inspire aspiring speed skaters to reach for greatness.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 61 (born March 18, 1964).
- Sport: Speed skating (long track, retired 1995).
- Primary Income Sources: Olympic prizes, endorsements, motivational speaking, and corporate events.
- Notable Work: 5x Olympic gold (500m/1000m 1988-94), 1x bronze (1000m 1988); 4x World Sprint Champion; U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame inductee; advocates for youth sports.
17. Yuna Kim – Figure Skating Prodigy
Yuna Kim, a figure skating prodigy from South Korea, is renowned for her grace, technical proficiency, and artistry on the ice. With an Olympic gold medal and numerous world championship titles, Kim’s impact on figure skating transcends national borders. Her performances have set a standard for excellence in the sport, making her one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ in the history of figure skating.
Key Profile Details:
- Age: 35 (born September 5, 1990).
- Sport: Figure skating (ladies’ singles, retired 2014).
- Net Worth: Approximately $20–25 million.
- Primary Income Sources: Endorsements (Nike, Hyundai, Korean Air, Dior), ice shows/exhibitions, and appearance fees.
- Notable Work: 2010 Olympic champion (Vancouver), 2014 Olympic silver (Sochi); 2x World champion (2009, 2013); helped secure 2018 PyeongChang Olympics for South Korea; philanthropist.
- Instagram Followers: 1.4 million
18. Mary Kom – Boxing Legend
Mary Kom, an Indian boxer and six-time World Champion, has shattered gender barriers in the male-dominated sport of boxing. Kom’s tenacity, skill, and determination have earned her numerous accolades, including an Olympic bronze medal. Her impact extends beyond the ring, as she continues to inspire aspiring female boxers in India and around the world. Mary Kom’s legacy as the ‘greatest female athlete’ in boxing is firmly established.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 43 (born November 24, 1982).
- Sport: Boxing (amateur; flyweight/light-flyweight; retired from competition).
- Net Worth: Approximately $3–5 million (from awards, endorsements).
- Primary Income Sources: Government awards/cash prizes, endorsements, parliamentary salary (former Rajya Sabha member).
- Notable Work: 6x World Amateur Boxing Champion (record for women), 8x World Championship medals total; Olympic bronze (2012 London); Asian Games gold (2014); Commonwealth Games gold (2018); Padma Vibhushan (2020); founded boxing academies for youth.
- Instagram Followers: 2.1 million
19. Annika Sörenstam – Golfing Trailblazer
Annika Sörenstam, a Swedish golfing legend, dominated the women’s golf scene during the late 1990s and early 2000s. With 10 major championships and numerous accolades, Sörenstam’s precision and consistency on the golf course set a standard for excellence. Her contributions to the growth of women’s golf have left an enduring legacy, making her one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ in the history of the sport.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 55 (born October 9, 1970).
- Sport: Golf (LPGA Tour, retired from competitive play in 2008).
- Net Worth: Approximately $40 million.
- Primary Income Sources: Career earnings ($22M+ LPGA prize money), endorsements (Callaway, Rolex, Mercedes), course design, academy.
- Notable Work: 72 LPGA wins, 10 majors; ANNIKA Academy founder; ANNIKA Foundation (youth golf); 2021 U.S. Senior Women’s Open winner; World Golf Hall of Fame.
- Instagram Followers: 112,000
20. Lisa Leslie – Basketball Pioneer
Lisa Leslie, a basketball pioneer, revolutionized the women’s game with her athleticism and skill. As a three-time WNBA MVP and four-time Olympic gold medalist, Leslie’s impact on women’s basketball is immeasurable. Her dominance in the post and ability to change the game on both ends of the court make her one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ in basketball history. Leslie’s legacy as a trailblazer continues to inspire the next generation of female basketball players.
Key Profile Details
- Age: 53 (born July 7, 1972).
- Sport: Basketball (WNBA center, retired 2009).
- Net Worth: Approximately $8 million.
- Primary Income Sources: WNBA salary/Sparks championships, endorsements (Nike, Visa), broadcasting, motivational speaking.
- Notable Work: 3x WNBA MVP (2001, 2004, 2006), 2x WNBA champion/Finals MVP (2001-02), first player with MVP/ Finals MVP/All-Star MVP same year; 4x Olympic gold (1996-2008); WNBA all-time scoring leader at retirement; Naismith/Women’s Basketball HOF inductee.
- Instagram Followers: 340,000
Paris Olympics 2024 – Inspiring Female Athletes Defying the Odds
With the onset of the Paris Olympics, female athletes are shining and making their countries proud with their skills and dedication. Here are some of the greatest female athletes who have made their mark in the Paris Olympics 2024.
1. Manu Bhaker
Manu Bhaker comes from a small town named Jhajjar, Haryana, India. She is the youngest shooter from India and has won two medals in the Paris Olympics 2024, making her the first Indian to win two medals in a single Olympics since the nation’s independence. She competed in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but she couldn’t win because of the malfunction of her pistol.
2. Nada Hafez
Nada Hafez is a 26-year-old Egyptian fencer who competed in the Paris Olympics 2024 while being seven months pregnant, which garnered headlines. She had the best-ever finish at the Olympics, coming in the top 16 after she lost to Jeon Hayoung of South Korea. In the previous Olympics, she finished 36th in Rio de Janeiro and 29th in Tokyo.
3. Elle Purrier St. Pierre
Elle Purrier St. Pierre is an American track and field athlete, specializing in medium and long-distance running. At the Paris Olympics 2024, she qualified for 5000 meters with the fastest trial time run while dealing with her first postpartum period since the birth of her son.
4. Laura Kraut
Laura Kraut, a showjumper from Florida, is the oldest athlete and US medalist at the Olympics to have won a silver in 72 years. The strong 58-year-old athlete won alongside teammates Karl Cook and McLain Ward. Her first Olympic gold medal was in Beijing in 2008, and she won a silver at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.
5. Dhinidhi Desinghu
Dhinidhi Desinghu, hailing from Chennai, India, is one of the youngest athletes and swimmers from India in the Paris Olympics 2024. She is 14 years old and has represented India before at the Asian Games in Hangzhou, where she was also the youngest participant. She has aspirations to perform at the 2028 and 2032 Olympics as well.
Conclusion
The legacy of the 20 greatest female athletes of all time is a testament to the resilience, skill, and determination of women in sports. From tennis courts to soccer fields, from the track to the ice, these extraordinary women have broken barriers, shattered records, and inspired millions around the globe.
Their stories serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring female athletes, reinforcing the idea that greatness knows no gender. As we celebrate the achievements of these iconic athletes, let us continue to champion and support the women who will undoubtedly shape the future of sports. The legacy of these ‘greatest female athletes’ is not only a celebration of their individual accomplishments but also a collective triumph for women in sports worldwide.
