Sports publication ESPN recently conducted a poll asking fans to vote on the greatest athletes of the 21st century, and the results have come as a surprise to many especially those who follow the sport of football/soccer.
Football icon Lionel Messi has been voted as the third-best athlete of the 21st century according to the poll, while another icon, Cristiano Ronaldo failed to make the top 10 list. In fact, the five-time Ballon d’Or award winner found himself placed 13th in the top 100 list. This unexpected outcome has sparked debates among fans and experts alike, considering the remarkable careers both players have had.
The poll conducted by ESPN received more than 70,000 votes, with a staggering 56 athletes from the United States of America (USA) making the top 100 list. This significant representation of American athletes highlights the country's dominance in various sports disciplines over the past two decades. Basketball players had a majority presence on the list, with 24 of them finding a place, followed by 17 baseball players and 15 football/soccer stars.
🚨📈 The best Athletes of 21st century, as voted by @espn:
— Pubity Sport (@pubitysport) July 18, 2024
1. Michael Phelps
2. Serena Williams
3. Lionel Messi
4. LeBron James
5. Tom Brady
6. Roger Federer
7. Simone Biles
8. Tiger Woods
9. Usain Bolt
10. Kobe Bryant
11. Novak Djokovic
12. Rafael Nadal
13. Cristiano Ronaldo… pic.twitter.com/20jnUtg40K
The heavy presence of basketball players in the list reflects the global popularity and competitive nature of the NBA. Athletes like LeBron James and Kobe Bryant have transcended the sport, becoming cultural icons and influencing millions worldwide. Similarly, baseball and American football have strong followings, which contributed to their athletes' high rankings.
American legend Michael Phelps, holder of a record 28 Olympic medals in swimming, of which 23 were gold, was voted as the greatest athlete of the 21st century. Phelps' dominance in the pool, especially during the Olympics, has made him a symbol of excellence and perseverance.
Tennis icon Serena Williams, winner of 23 Grand Slam titles, came in second. Williams has not only dominated women's tennis but also broken barriers and set new standards for female athletes globally. Her journey, marked by triumphs and comebacks, has inspired countless individuals.
Lionel Messi, who has won a record eight Ballon d’Or award honors, secured the third spot. Messi's extraordinary skill, vision, and consistency have earned him a place among the greatest footballers in history. His ability to change the course of a game single-handedly has left fans and critics in awe.
National Basketball Association (NBA) all-time record scorer, LeBron James, came in fourth. LeBron's versatility, leadership, and impact on and off the court have solidified his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players ever.
National Football League (NFL) legend and widely considered the greatest quarterback of all time, Tom Brady, rounded off the top five list. Brady's remarkable career, filled with numerous championships and records, underscores his status as a football legend.
The top 25 athletes of the 21st century as per ESPN’s readers include:
Roger Federer, another tennis legend, sits at sixth place. Federer’s elegance and dominance on the court have made him a beloved figure in the tennis world. His rivalries, particularly with Nadal and Djokovic, have produced some of the sport’s most memorable moments.
Simone Biles, ranked seventh, has revolutionized gymnastics with her incredible talent and innovative routines. Her achievements and resilience have made her an inspiration, especially for young athletes.
Tiger Woods, at eighth place, is renowned for his impact on golf. Woods’ career, marked by his numerous major wins and his ability to captivate audiences, has played a significant role in popularizing the sport globally.
Usain Bolt, the fastest man on earth, ranks ninth. Bolt’s dominance in sprinting and his charismatic personality have made him a global icon. His world records and Olympic performances have left an indelible mark on athletics.
Kobe Bryant, at tenth, is celebrated for his relentless work ethic and competitive spirit. Bryant’s contributions to basketball and his influence extend beyond his playing career, inspiring future generations of athletes.
Cristiano Ronaldo's placement at 13th has been a topic of heated discussion. Despite his incredible achievements, including five Ballon d'Or awards and numerous titles with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, Ronaldo’s ranking outside the top 10 has puzzled many. Some argue that his consistent performance, goal-scoring records, and influence on the game merit a higher position.
The ESPN poll has not only highlighted the exceptional talents of these athletes but also sparked conversations about their legacies. Each athlete on the list has made significant contributions to their respective sports, inspiring millions of fans worldwide.
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