When we talk about greatness in sports, it’s impossible to leave out the women who’ve not only dominated their games—but changed them forever. From breaking records to breaking barriers, these icons left an impact that goes way beyond the field, court, or track.
Let’s celebrate the top 10 most iconic women athletes in history.
10. Danica Patrick – Motorsport
Danica Patrick didn’t just race, she made history. The first woman to win an IndyCar race and a major name in NASCAR, she proved women could compete at the highest levels of motorsport
9. Nadia Comăneci – Gymnastics
In 1976, Nadia Comăneci stunned the world with the first perfect 10 in Olympic gymnastics. Just 14 years old at the time, she showed what precision and poise really looked like, and inspired generations of gymnasts to dream bigger.
8. Wilma Rudolph – Track & Field
As a child, Wilma Rudolph was told she might never walk again due to polio. She went on to win three gold medals in the 1960 Olympics. Her story of perseverance inspired a nation and helped break down racial barriers in sport.
7. Ronda Rousey – MMA/Wrestling
Before Ronda Rousey, women weren’t even fighting in the UFC. She made it happen—and became a global star in the process. With her judo skills and fierce mindset, she paved the way for every woman in MMA and even in pro wrestling.
6. Martina Navratilova – Tennis
Tough, Fearless, and virtually unbeatable. Martina Navratilova claimed 18 Grand Slam singles titles. She changed how we view both tennis and courage.
5. Mia Hamm – Soccer
Mia Hamm helped put women’s soccer on the global map. A two-time World Cup champ and two-time Olympic gold medalist, she became a household name and inspired a generation of young players.
4. Jackie Joyner-Kersee – Track & Field
Jackie Joyner-Kersee wasn’t just fast, she was a force of nature. With six Olympic medals, she dominated the heptathlon and long jump for years. Her strength and resilience made her a trailblazer in women’s track and field.
3. Billie Jean King – Tennis
Before equal pay was even a conversation, Billie Jean King was already fighting for it. She famously defeated Bobby Riggs in 1973’s “Battle of the Sexes” and won 39 Grand Slam titles. She’s also a fearless advocate for gender equality.
2. Simone Biles – Gymnastics
Few athletes have blown minds like Simone Biles. She’s the most decorated gymnast ever, with extraordinary routines that raised the bar for the sport. Off the mat, her courage in speaking up about mental health has been just as groundbreaking.
1. Serena Williams – Tennis
It’s hard to top Serena. With 23 Grand Slam singles titles, more than any man or woman in the Open Era, she redefined dominance in tennis. But her legacy isn’t just stats. She empowered women of color, challenged gender norms, and stayed authentic through it all.
These women athletes didn’t just play their sports, they reshaped them. From courts and tracks to octagons and racetracks, they shattered ceilings, inspired millions, and built legacies that transcend gender and time. And chances are, they’ve only paved the way for the next generation to go even further.
