Women’s sports have never been more exciting—or more visible. Whether they’re racking up wins, selling out arenas, or launching global fashion deals, these women are leading the charge and changing the game.
This list ranks the 20 most famous female athletes on the planet right now. It’s a mix of major achievements, global reach, cultural buzz, and how much they’ve impacted the world beyond the scoreboard.
20. Sky Brown
She’s not even out of her teens and already has Olympic medals in skateboarding, including silver in Paris 2024. Add in her massive social media presence, and she’s a full-blown youth icon.
19. Paige Bueckers
She’s fresh off a National Championship and already putting up impressive numbers in the WNBA. She’s a superstar and she’s just getting started.
18. Zheng Qinwen
She’s the new face of Chinese tennis and is climbing fast. With big wins and big paydays, her momentum feels unstoppable.
17. Alexia Putellas
She’s a two-time Ballon d’Or winner and one of the best midfielders in soccer history. With trophies, leadership, and style, she’s a global face of the women’s game.
16. Nelly Korda
World No. 1 in golf and an Olympic champion, she’s got the swing and the spotlight. With major brand deals, she’s becoming golf’s biggest crossover star.
15. Sha’Carri Richardson
She’s fast, fierce, and never afraid to speak her mind. One of the most electric personalities in track and field, she’s always headline-worthy.
14. Sabrina Ionescu
From college legend to WNBA superstar, she’s now a face of the league. Her leadership and all-around game make her a must-watch every time she steps on the court.
13. Aryna Sabalenka
One of the biggest hitters in tennis, she’s been a fixture at the top of the rankings. Her fire on the court and charisma off it keep fans locked in.
12. A’ja Wilson
Multiple MVPs, championship banners, and a massive impact on and off the court. She’s the definition of what a modern superstar looks like.
11. Angel Reese
A breakout star with the confidence to match, she’s changing what a WNBA icon can look like. She owns the spotlight every time she plays—or posts.
10. Suni Lee
An Olympic all-around champion with a powerful comeback story, she’s remained one of the most admired figures in gymnastics. Whether she’s competing or inspiring from afar, her presence still resonates with fans everywhere.
9. Aitana Bonmatí
She’s a midfield magician and a World Cup champ with Spain. Her play helped define a new era of women’s soccer dominance.
8. Naomi Osaka
She’s back after maternity leave and still making noise. On the court, in fashion, or in social advocacy, her influence stretches far and wide.
7. Iga Świątek
She wins a lot and wins with style. Between Grand Slams and massive earnings, she’s setting the tone for the next generation of tennis stars.
6. Chloe Kim
She’s been the queen of the halfpipe since she was a teenager and hasn’t slowed down. With Olympic golds, charisma for days, and a strong voice off the snow, she’s become one of the most recognizable athletes on the planet.
5. Eileen Gu
She skis, she models, she speaks multiple languages—she does it all. With medals and massive endorsements, she’s a global superstar like no other.
4. Katie Ledecky
One of the most decorated swimmers ever, she just keeps adding gold to her collection. Her dominance in the pool is matched only by her quiet leadership outside it.
Read More: Ranking the 20 Most Competitive Female Athletes of All Time
3. Caitlin Clark
She’s transformed women’s basketball into appointment viewing. From college records to pro stardom, the hype is real and deserved.
Read More: 16 Female Athletes Who Dominated the Marketing Game
2. Simone Biles
The GOAT of gymnastics came back in a big way at Paris 2024. She’s not just an icon in her sport; she’s a symbol of strength and self-care.
Read More: The 15 Most Respected Female Athletes of All Time
1. Coco Gauff
She’s the biggest name in women’s tennis right now and the top-paid female athlete in the world. With Grand Slam titles and global charm, Coco is the face of this generation.
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