The 15 Most Respected Female Athletes of All Time

Women in sports have faced countless challenges, yet many have risen above adversity to become icons of excellence, perseverance, and leadership.

The most respected female athletes of all time have not only dominated their respective sports but also broken barriers, inspired generations, and used their platform for positive change. Here’s a ranking of the 15 most respected female athletes in history.

15. Lindsey Vonn (Alpine Skiing)

One of the most dominant skiers of all time, Lindsey Vonn won four overall World Cup titles and an Olympic gold medal. Her ability to bounce back from numerous injuries and her advocacy for women in sports have earned her immense respect worldwide.

14. Danica Patrick (Auto Racing)

Danica Patrick shattered barriers in motorsports, becoming the most successful female driver in IndyCar and NASCAR history. As the first woman to win an IndyCar race and the first to secure a pole position in the Daytona 500, she paved the way for future female racers in a male-dominated sport.

13. Abby Wambach (Soccer)

A two-time Olympic gold medalist and World Cup champion, Abby Wambach is one of the most influential figures in women’s soccer history. Her leadership on and off the field, combined with her advocacy for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights, has solidified her as a respected icon.

12. Wilma Rudolph (Track & Field)

Overcoming polio as a child, Wilma Rudolph became the fastest woman in the world, winning three gold medals at the 1960 Olympics. She was not just a track legend but also a pioneer for racial and gender equality in sports.

11. Serena Williams (Tennis)

Serena Williams’ dominance in tennis—23 Grand Slam singles titles—speaks for itself, but her impact goes far beyond trophies. Her resilience, advocacy for gender and racial equality, and efforts to empower women in business and sports have made her one of the most respected athletes of all time.

10. Ronda Rousey (MMA/Wrestling)

Ronda Rousey revolutionized women’s sports by proving that female fighters could be just as marketable and dominant as men. She became the first woman signed by the UFC and won an Olympic medal in judo before transitioning to professional wrestling, continuing to inspire female athletes worldwide.

9. Martina Navratilova (Tennis)

A legend on the tennis court with 18 Grand Slam singles titles, Martina Navratilova was also one of the first openly gay athletes in professional sports. She has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality, making her an inspiration both in and out of tennis.

8. Billie Jean King (Tennis)

Billie Jean King didn’t just win 39 Grand Slam titles—she fought for equal pay and opportunities for women in sports. Her victory in the famous “Battle of the Sexes” match against Bobby Riggs in 1973 was a milestone in women’s sports, and her ongoing activism has made her an icon of equality.

7. Katie Ledecky (Swimming)

Katie Ledecky has redefined distance swimming with multiple Olympic gold medals and world records. Beyond her achievements, she remains humble, hardworking, and a role model for aspiring swimmers worldwide.

6. Mia Hamm (Soccer)

One of the greatest soccer players in history, Mia Hamm helped put women’s soccer on the map. With two World Cup victories and two Olympic gold medals, she inspired a generation of young athletes and continues to advocate for women in sports.

5. Simone Biles (Gymnastics)

Simone Biles is the most decorated gymnast in history, but her impact extends far beyond her record-breaking performances. Her bravery in speaking about mental health and standing up for abuse survivors in sports has made her a powerful voice for athlete well-being and safety.

4. Nadia Comaneci (Gymnastics)

At just 14 years old, Nadia Comaneci became the first gymnast to score a perfect 10 at the Olympics. Her dominance in the sport and her lasting impact on gymnastics have made her one of the most respected athletes of all time.

3. Jackie Joyner-Kersee (Track & Field)

Widely regarded as the greatest female athlete in track and field history, Jackie Joyner-Kersee won three Olympic gold medals in the heptathlon and long jump. Off the track, she has dedicated her life to philanthropy and supporting underprivileged youth.

2. Florence Griffith Joyner (Track & Field)

“Flo Jo” remains the fastest woman in history, with records in the 100m and 200m that still stand today. Beyond her speed, she was a fashion icon and a role model who inspired countless athletes with her confidence and grace.

1. Babe Didrikson Zaharias (Multi-Sport)

Arguably the greatest female athlete of all time, Babe Didrikson Zaharias excelled in multiple sports, including golf, basketball, and track and field. She won two Olympic gold medals and later dominated women’s golf. Her pioneering spirit and unmatched versatility make her the most respected female athlete in history.