Five of the Greatest Female Athletes in History

For over a century, women have made a tremendous impact in sports and have served as inspirations for those who aspire to do the same. Many women have truly excelled and grown their influence as renowned sports stars. 

According to a 2018 Nielsen report, the number of female athletes has increased as a result of the influence of popular women sports stars. According to the report, 84% of general sports fans are keenly interested in and actively watch women’s sports. 

The following article profiles five of the greatest female athletes of all time. Additionally, this guide will explain the major talking points in the career of these athletes. Before we continue, please visit 22Bet for the best betting option on all sporting events.

Wilma Rudolph

Wilma Rudolph was the first black woman to make an indelible mark on world sports. At the height of her career, she won three gold medals during the 1960 Olympics. 

Wilma encountered adversity at a young age when she contracted polio, and her left leg and foot became weak due to her illness. Despite her illness, she became the fastest woman at the 1960 Olympics. As of that time, her time for 100 meters was 11.2 seconds. Also, she held the 200 meters record with 22.9 seconds.

In 1960, Rudolph became a role model for female athletes thanks to worldwide TV coverage. Her exploits at that time continue to inspire women worldwide today.

Billie Jean King

Within the tennis community, Billie is seen as the best female player. Billie won 39 Grand Slam titles over the course of her career, which spanned over 20 years. These laurels include 16 trophies in the women’s doubles, 12 trophies in the singles category, and 11 trophies in the mixed doubles category.

King leveraged her popularity to advocate on several gender-related issues. She became a prominent voice in the struggle for social justice and gender equality. In 1968, when the Open Era began, she advocated for equal pay. She earned over $100,000 in prize money in 1971 and became the first female athlete to do so. 

Serena Williams

Serena Williams is another tennis player who is very popular around the world. She has enjoyed major success in her career. Thus, she is regarded as a role model for young girls and women. 

Venus and Serena are considered pioneers of power-based play among female tennis players. Currently, Serena holds the third most Grand Slam titles by an active player. These include wins in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles tournaments. She holds the record for winning the most Grand Slam titles with 23 titles in the Open Era.

In a 2019 report by Forbes, Serena was ranked among the top-earning athletes in the world. This was her first time appearing on the list.

Alex Morgan

Alex Morgan

Alex Morgan is a football player and she represents the United States. Alex made her world cup debut in 2011, and she has won two world cup titles over ten years. She was made the co-captain of the team during their last outing at the world cup.

Morgan became the second American female player to contribute 40 goals (20 assists, 20 goals) within one year. The previous holder of this record was Mia Hamm. In addition, she became the sixth youngest US player ever to score 20 goals in one season. 

Lindsey Vonn

Lindsey is a popular American skier with multiple record-breaking in the skiing world cup. Her record consists of three consecutive medals from 2008 to 2012. She has also made history as the first female American to win the gold medal in the downhill competition. She won this medal during the 2010 winter Olympics.