10 Greatest Female Athletes of All Time – Ranked

From Pioneers to Icons: A Tribute to the Top 10 Female Athletes in Global Sporting History!

In the ever-evolving sporting world, the achievements of female athletes have often been overshadowed, but their impact on the world of athletics is monumental. From tennis courts to soccer fields, or combat sports, women athletes have not only dominated their respective sports but have also shattered gender barriers, inspiring generations to come. Recognizing their unparalleled contributions is crucial in celebrating the essence of athleticism and advocating for equal recognition. However, this blog post aims to explore the remarkable achievements of the Top 10 Greatest Female Athletes of All Time in the World and share the legacies they've left on the sporting world. So, stay with us. 

1. Steffi Graf (USA)

Steffi Graf is greeted as one of the greatest female athletes due to her unparalleled achievements in tennis during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Graf held the World No. 1 ranking for a record 377 weeks and secured 22 Grand Slam singles titles, including a historic Golden Slam in 1988, winning all four majors and the Olympic gold. 

Known for her powerful forehand and exceptional footwork, Graf's dominance showed the highest level of athleticism that revolutionized women's tennis around the world. 

Graf’s ability to maintain peak performance over an extended period cements her legacy as an iconic figure among the 10 greatest female athletes of all time in the world

2. Serena Williams (USA)

Serena Williams is revered as one of the greatest female athletes globally due to her extraordinary tennis career. With an unparalleled blend of power, finesse, and athleticism, Williams has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, the most by any player in the Open Era. 

Her dominance extended over two decades, highlighting Serena,'s remarkable resilience, skills, and adaptability. A dynamic force on and off the court, Williams has redefined the sport, breaking barriers and inspiring generations. 

Beyond her remarkable achievements, Serena Williams's impact transcends tennis, making her an enduring symbol of female empowerment and athleticism, solidifying her legacy among the greatest athletes of all time.

3. Nadia Comaneci (Romania) 

Nadia Comăneci, the Romanian gymnast, is renowned as one of the greatest female athletes globally for her groundbreaking achievements in gymnastics. At the 1976 Olympics, she became the first gymnast to score a perfect 10, earning seven of them and winning three gold medals. 

Comăneci's flawless routines, skills, and unparalleled precision revolutionized the sport, setting new standards for excellence. Her impact extended beyond the gym, inspiring generations of gymnasts worldwide.

Comăneci's pioneering performances not only made her an Olympic icon but also a symbol of grace, skill, and determination, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest female athletes of all time in the world.

4. Mia Hamm (USA)

Mia Hamm, the American soccer legend, is revered as one of the greatest female athletes worldwide for her groundbreaking contributions to the sport. A two-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time FIFA World Player of the Year, Hamm played a pivotal role in transforming women's soccer into a global phenomenon. 

Known for her exceptional skills, goal-scoring skills, and leadership, Hamm played a vital role in the success of the U.S. Women's Soccer National Team. 

Hamm's impact transcended the field, inspiring a new generation of female athletes and significantly elevating the status of women's soccer. Her legacy as a pioneer in the world of soccer cements her status among the all-time greats.

5. Ronda Rousey (USA)

Ronda Rousey, the American mixed martial artist, is considered one of the greatest female athletes globally due to her groundbreaking achievements in the world of combat sports. A former UFC Women's Bantamweight Champion, Rousey was the first woman to sign with the UFC and played a pivotal role in popularizing women's MMA.

Rousey's dominance was characterized by a string of quick and decisive victories in the UFC and WWE often finishing her opponents in record time. Aside from numerous feats, Ronda became the first female fighter inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2018. 

Beyond her athletic legacies, Rousey's impact extended to mainstream culture, breaking barriers and paving the way for women in combat sports. Her influence on both the sport and gender equality solidifies her legacy as a pioneer in the world of combat sports worldwide.

6. Marta (Brazil)

Marta, the Brazilian football star, is renowned as one of the greatest female athletes globally for her exceptional contributions to women's soccer. A six-time FIFA World Player of the Year, Marta has exhibited remarkable skill, goal-scoring strength, and leadership on the field. 

Marta's influence transcends borders, making her an iconic figure not only in Brazil but also in the broader soccer community around the world. Aside from numerous feats, Marta was the first footballer, female or male to score at five consecutive Olympic Games. 

Marta's dedication to the sport, longevity, and numerous individual accolades present her status as a pioneer for women in football. Her impact on and off the pitch solidifies her legacy as one of the greatest female athletes of all time in the world.

7. Lisa Leslie (USA)

Lisa Leslie, the American basketball icon, is widely regarded as one of the greatest female athletes globally for her outstanding contributions to the sport. A three-time WNBA MVP, Leslie played a pivotal role in shaping women's basketball, combining exceptional skill, athleticism, and leadership. 

Known for her dominance on both ends of the court, Leslie was a key figure in the success of the U.S. Women's National Basketball Team, earning four Olympic gold medals. 

Beyond her on-court achievements, Leslie's impact extends to her role as a pioneer, inspiring future generations of female basketball players and solidifying her legacy as one of the all-time greats in women's sports.

8. Danica Pattrick (USA) 

Danica Patrick, the American former racing driver, is recognized as one of the most prominent female athletes globally for her groundbreaking achievements in motorsports. Patrick made history by becoming the first woman to win an IndyCar Series race and the highest-finishing woman in the Indianapolis 500. 

Beyond her racing accomplishments, Pattrick shattered gender barriers, paving the way for more women in a male-dominated sport. Patrick's charisma and marketability also made her a pioneer in motorsports marketing around the world. 

Although her racing career concluded, her impact on diversifying and popularizing auto racing solidifies her legacy as one of the most influential female athletes in the world.

9. Florence Griffith-Joyner (USA)

Florence Griffith-Joyner, known as "Flo-Jo," is revered as one of the greatest female athletes globally for her extraordinary achievements in track and field. At the 1988 Seoul Olympics, she set world records in the 100m and 200m sprints that still stand today. 

Known for her distinctive style, including colorful and elaborate nails, Griffith-Joyner captivated audiences with her unparalleled speed and grace. Her Olympic performances earned her three gold medals, and she remains the fastest woman in history. 

Flo-Jo's impact on the sport, coupled with her charisma and unique style, solidifies her as a track and field legend and one of the greatest female athletes of all time.

10. Billie Jean King USA)

Billie Jean King, the American tennis legend, is revered as one of the greatest female athletes globally for her groundbreaking contributions to the sport. A 39-time Grand Slam champion, King's accomplishments spanned singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, showcasing her exceptional versatility on the court. 

Beyond her victories in the courts, she was a pioneer for gender equality in sports, famously defeating Bobby Riggs in the "Battle of the Sexes" tennis match. 

King's advocacy for equal prize money and opportunities for women in tennis has left an enduring legacy, making her a symbol of women's empowerment in society and a pivotal figure in the history of women's sports worldwide.

The Bottom Line

In recap to the Top 10 Greatest Female Athletes of All Time, we've witnessed remarkable feats, and unparalleled successes that these icons have left in the women in sports. These icons' influence reaches far beyond the arena, challenging norms and fostering a culture of inclusivity. 

From the unparalleled achievements of Serena Williams to the groundbreaking contributions of Billie Jean King, or Marta's contribution to popularizing soccer worldwide these legends have not only inspired millions but have also catalyzed transformative changes in the world of sports. 

Finally, share your thoughts in the comments below, and spread the inspiration by sharing this post on social media. Together, let's honor and amplify the voices of these remarkable women who have shaped the landscape of sports. Thanks!

Published by

Mostafa Masud

For SportsOwls 

sportsowls@gmail.com