Repairing the harm of the unspeakable
McEnroe, a tennis maverick, boasted seven Grand Slam singles titles. Known for his fiery temperament and serve-and-volley style, McEnroe's on-court charisma and accomplishments have etched him into tennis history.
Woods, with 15 major championship titles, revolutionized golf with his dominance and skill. His comeback victories and impact on the sport transcend golf, making him one of the most recognized athletes globally.
Jordan, often hailed as the greatest basketball player of all time, won six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls. His scoring prowess, competitive spirit, and global impact elevated him to an iconic status in the world of sports and popular culture.
Phelps, the most decorated Olympian, boasts 28 medals, including an unprecedented 23 golds. His dominance in swimming spans four Olympics, solidifying his legacy as a swimming icon and one of the greatest athletes in Olympic history.
Known as the fastest man in history, Bolt's records in the 100m and 200m sprints remain unmatched. His charismatic personality and dominance on the track have left an indelible mark on the sport of athletics.
With 23 Grand Slam singles titles and four Olympic golds, Serena Williams is a tennis legend. Her powerful game, tenacity, and longevity have made her one of the most dominant and iconic figures in women's tennis history.
Messi's dazzling skills, vision, and goal-scoring prowess have earned him numerous titles, including multiple FIFA World Player of the Year awards. Renowned for his loyalty to FC Barcelona, Messi's impact on football transcends generations.
Biles, a gymnastics sensation, has redefined the sport with her gravity-defying routines. Her 23 Olympic and World Championship gold medals underscore her unparalleled talent, cementing her status as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time.
Widely regarded as the greatest footballer, Pele won three World Cups with Brazil and scored over 1,000 career goals. His dazzling skills, clinical finishing, and global impact have left an indelible mark on the beautiful game.
Nicklaus, the "Golden Bear," amassed 18 major championships, including six Masters titles. His strategic brilliance and clutch performances on golf's grandest stages solidify his status as one of the greatest golfers in history.
Pacquiao's dynamic boxing career spans eight weight divisions, earning him world titles in each. His speed, power, and resilience have made him a global boxing icon, transcending the sport's boundaries.
Navratilova's 18 Grand Slam singles titles and 31 doubles titles underscore her dominance in women's tennis. Renowned for her versatile game and aggressive style, she has left an enduring legacy as one of the greatest female tennis players.
Brady, a quarterback with unparalleled success, boasts multiple Super Bowl victories and records. His leadership, precision passing, and ability to perform under pressure have solidified him as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Gretzky, "The Great One," is hockey's all-time leading scorer. With numerous records and four Stanley Cup championships, his vision and scoring ability have made him an immortal figure in the world of ice hockey.
Hamm, a pioneer in women's soccer, won multiple Olympic golds and two FIFA World Player of the Year awards. Her skill, leadership, and impact on women's sports have left an enduring legacy.
Latynina, a Soviet gymnast, held the record for the most Olympic medals (18) until Michael Phelps surpassed it. Her versatility and success in three consecutive Olympics established her as a gymnastics icon.
Federer's graceful style and 20 Grand Slam singles titles mark him as one of tennis's all-time greats. His longevity, sportsmanship, and versatility on all surfaces have endeared him to fans worldwide.
Rafael Nadal has an impressive total of 92 titles, including 22 Grand Slam singles titles and 36 ATP Tour Masters 1000 titles. Known for his relentless play on clay courts, Nadal's unmatched tenacity and physical strenght have solidified his dominance in men's tennis, particularly at the French Open, where he has won a record 14 titles.
Ronaldo, a prolific goal-scorer, has won numerous domestic league titles, UEFA Champions League trophies, and individual awards. His athleticism, goal-scoring ability, and work ethic make him one of football's legends.
Known for his versatility and basketball IQ, LeBron James has led his teams to multiple NBA championships. His combination of scoring, playmaking, and leadership cements his place among the basketball greats.
Comăneci, a Romanian gymnast, achieved perfection with the first-ever perfect 10 in Olympic gymnastics. Her technical excellence and Olympic success paved the way for future generations in the sport.
Felix, a track and field star, boasts multiple Olympic gold medals and World Championship titles. Her sprinting prowess and dedication to her craft make her one of the most accomplished athletes in women's athletics.
Hanyu, a Japanese figure skater, is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and multiple-time world champion. His artistry, technical skill, and resilience on the ice have earned him acclaim in the world of figure skating.
Mayweather's undefeated record and multiple world titles across weight classes distinguish him as one of the greatest defensive boxers. His strategic brilliance and business acumen have contributed to his legacy.
White, a three-time Olympic gold medalist in snowboarding, is a pioneer in the sport. His aerial acrobatics and style have made him a snowboarding icon.
Schumacher, a seven-time Formula 1 World Champion, holds numerous records in the sport. His dominance on the racetrack and impact on Formula 1 racing are legendary.
Ledecky, an American swimmer, has set multiple world records and won numerous Olympic gold medals in freestyle swimming. Her endurance and versatility in distance events make her a standout in the pool.
Froome, a British cyclist, has won multiple Tour de France titles, showcasing his exceptional climbing and time-trial abilities. His strategic racing and resilience have solidified him as one of the top cyclists in the modern era.
Court, an Australian tennis legend, holds the record for the most Grand Slam singles titles with 24. Her dominance during the 1960s and 1970s, particularly on grass courts, remains unparalleled in women's tennis history.
Sources: (Khel Now) (Olympics.com) (Give Me Sport)
From the aquatic dominance of Michael Phelps to the record-breaking sprints of Usain Bolt, and the unmatched skill of Serena Williams on the tennis court to Lionel Messi’s brilliance on the soccer field, these athletes have left a lasting legacy in sports history.
Amongst these legends is Rafael Nadal, who ended his tennis career on November 19 after Spain lost against the Netherlands in the Davis Cup quarterfinal. The 38-year-old has suffered some injuries that he says have prevented him from playing at the competitive level required to continue. Despite losing his final match, he ended his tennis career with 22 men's Grand Slam titles and is widely considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time.
Click through to meet the best of the best.
The most decorated athletes of all time
Rafael Nadal ended his tennis career at the Davis Cup on November 19
LIFESTYLE Sport
From the aquatic dominance of Michael Phelps to the record-breaking sprints of Usain Bolt, and the unmatched skill of Serena Williams on the tennis court to Lionel Messi’s brilliance on the soccer field, these athletes have left a lasting legacy in sports history.
Amongst these legends is Rafael Nadal, who ended his tennis career on November 19 after Spain lost against the Netherlands in the Davis Cup quarterfinal. The 38-year-old has suffered some injuries that he says have prevented him from playing at the competitive level required to continue. Despite losing his final match, he ended his tennis career with 22 men's Grand Slam titles and is widely considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time.
Click through to meet the best of the best.