Here are 20 greatest female athletes: 1. Serena Williams, 2. Simone Biles, 3. Marta, 4. Jackie Joyner-Kersee, 5. Billie Jean King, 6. Abby Wambach, 7. Althea Gibson, etc.

1. Celebrating the Legacy of
20 Greatest Female Athletes
of All Time
In the dynamic world of sports, the achievements of female athletes have
long been overshadowed by their male counterparts. However, over the
years, numerous extraordinary women have risen to the top, breaking
barriers, setting records, and inspiring generations to come. In this article,
we celebrate the legacy of 20 of the greatest female athletes of all time,
highlighting their achievements, impact on their respective sports, and the
enduring legacy they leave behind.
1. Serena Williams – Tennis Legend

2. Source – People
When discussing the greatest female athletes of all time, Serena Williams
undoubtedly takes center stage. With an illustrious career spanning over
two decades, Williams has amassed an astonishing 23 Grand Slam singles
titles, cementing her status as one of the greatest tennis players in history.
Her powerful serves, unmatched agility, and mental toughness on the court
have not only revolutionized women’s tennis but have also shattered
numerous records. Serena Williams exemplifies the true essence of a
‘greatest female athlete.’
know more: Serena Williams: Need We Say More?
2. Simone Biles – Gymnastics Prodigy

3. Source – The Guardian
In the realm of gymnastics, Simone Biles stands as a testament to the
heights that can be reached through dedication and talent. With a total of
30 Olympic and World Championship medals, including 19 golds, Biles is
widely regarded as the most decorated gymnast of all time. Her
unparalleled athleticism, innovation in routines, and unyielding
determination make her a prime example of a ‘greatest female athlete’ who
has left an indelible mark on the world of sports.
3. Marta – Soccer Sensation

4. Source – Sportsnet
Often referred to as the “Pele in Skirts,” Marta is a Brazilian soccer
sensation whose prowess on the field has earned her the title of the
greatest female footballer of all time. With five FIFA World Player of the
Year awards and numerous records, Marta has transcended boundaries,
proving that greatness knows no gender. Her impact on women’s soccer
has paved the way for future generations, solidifying her place as one of
the ‘greatest female athletes.’
4. Jackie Joyner-Kersee – Track and Field Icon

5. Source – Pinterest
Jackie Joyner-Kersee, a track and field legend, dominated the heptathlon
and long jump events throughout her career. Her unparalleled athleticism
earned her six Olympic medals, including three golds. Joyner-Kersee’s
versatility and consistency in excelling across multiple disciplines showcase
her as a prime example of the ‘greatest female athlete’ who has left an
enduring legacy in the world of track and field.
5. Billie Jean King – Tennis Pioneer

6. Source – NPR
A trailblazer for women in tennis, Billie Jean King not only dominated on the
court but also played a pivotal role in advocating for gender equality in
sports. With 39 Grand Slam titles to her name, King’s impact extends far
beyond her impressive tennis record. She famously defeated Bobby Riggs
in the iconic “Battle of the Sexes” match, highlighting the prowess of female
athletes and their ability to compete at the highest levels.
6. Abby Wambach – Soccer Icon

7. Source – Forbes
Abby Wambach, a towering figure in women’s soccer, boasts an impressive
career that includes two Olympic gold medals and a FIFA Women’s World
Cup victory. Wambach’s goal-scoring prowess and leadership on the field
have made her one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ in soccer history. Her
dedication to the sport and advocacy for equality have inspired countless
young athletes to pursue their dreams without limitations.
7. Althea Gibson – Tennis Pioneer

8. Source – BBC
Long before the Williams sisters dominated the tennis scene, Althea
Gibson made history as the first African American woman to win a Grand
Slam title. Gibson’s triumphs at the French Open, Wimbledon, and the U.S.
Nationals paved the way for future generations of female athletes of color.
Her impact on the sport transcends the court, making her an undeniable
part of the pantheon of ‘greatest female athletes.’
8. Florence Griffith-Joyner – Sprinting Legend

9. Source – Britannica
Florence Griffith-Joyner, often known as Flo-Jo, left an indelible mark on
track and field with her extraordinary sprinting abilities. Holding the world
records for the 100m and 200m, Flo-Jo’s legacy is etched in the annals of
sports history. Her style, speed, and unattainable records make her one of
the ‘greatest female athletes’ ever to grace the track, leaving an enduring
legacy that continues to inspire sprinters around the globe.
9. Nadia Comăneci – Gymnastics Perfection

10. Source – Vogue
Nadia Comăneci, a gymnastics prodigy from Romania, achieved perfection
at the 1976 Montreal Olympics by earning the first-ever perfect 10.0 score.
Comăneci’s flawless routines and technical precision revolutionized
gymnastics, earning her five Olympic gold medals. Her impact on the sport
is immeasurable, solidifying her place as one of the ‘greatest female
athletes’ in the history of gymnastics.
10. Mia Hamm – Soccer Trailblazer

11. Source – iNews
Mia Hamm, a pioneer in women’s soccer, played a pivotal role in
popularizing and elevating the sport to unprecedented heights. With two
Olympic gold medals and two FIFA Women’s World Cup victories, Hamm’s
goal-scoring prowess and leadership on the field have left an indelible mark
on women’s soccer. Her legacy extends beyond the pitch, inspiring
countless young girls to pursue their dreams in a male-dominated field.
11. Steffi Graf – Tennis Maestro

12. Source – IMDb
Steffi Graf’s dominance in tennis during the late 1980s and early 1990s
remains unparalleled. With 22 Grand Slam singles titles, including a Golden
Slam in 1988, Graf’s versatility and precision on the court have solidified
her status as one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ in tennis history. Graf’s
impact transcends her era, inspiring subsequent generations of tennis
players to strive for greatness.
12. Danica Patrick – Racing Trailblazer

13. Source – Wikipedia
In the male-dominated world of motorsports, Danica Patrick broke barriers
and paved the way for female drivers. As the first woman to win an IndyCar
Series race, Patrick’s accomplishments on the track have inspired a new
generation of female racecar drivers. Her resilience and determination
make her a shining example of a ‘greatest female athlete’ who defied
stereotypes and excelled in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
13. Wilma Rudolph – Sprinting Pioneer

14. Source – The Holland Sentinel
Wilma Rudolph, a sprinting pioneer, overcame numerous challenges to
become the first American woman to win three gold medals in track and
field at a single Olympic Games. Rudolph’s achievements at the 1960
Rome Olympics showcased her speed and resilience, making her an
enduring symbol of inspiration for aspiring athletes. Rudolph’s impact on
women’s sprinting solidifies her place as one of the ‘greatest female
athletes’ in history.
14. Chris Evert – Tennis Icon

15. Source – Roland-Garros
Chris Evert’s dominance in women’s tennis during the 1970s and 1980s is
a testament to her consistency and skill on the court. With 18 Grand Slam
singles titles and a remarkable win-loss record, Evert’s influence on the
game is immeasurable. Her rivalry with Martina Navratilova is etched in
tennis history, contributing to the sport’s popularity. Evert’s legacy as one of
the ‘greatest female athletes’ endures, inspiring tennis players across
generations.
15. Ronda Rousey – MMA Trailblazer

16. Source – Business Insider
Ronda Rousey’s impact on the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) cannot
be overstated. As the first woman to sign with the UFC, Rousey paved the
way for female fighters and brought mainstream attention to women’s
MMA. Her dominance in the bantamweight division, coupled with her
charisma and determination, has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Rousey’s contributions make her a true ‘greatest female athlete’ in the
world of combat sports.
16. Bonnie Blair – Speed Skating Champion

17. Source – USA Today
Bonnie Blair, a speed skating sensation, is one of the most decorated
Winter Olympians in history. With six Olympic gold medals and multiple
world records, Blair’s unparalleled speed and precision on the ice have
solidified her legacy as one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ in the realm of
winter sports. Her accomplishments continue to inspire aspiring speed
skaters to reach for greatness.
17. Yuna Kim – Figure Skating Prodigy

18. Source – International Business Times
Yuna Kim, a figure skating prodigy from South Korea, is renowned for her
grace, technical proficiency, and artistry on the ice. With an Olympic gold
medal and numerous world championship titles, Kim’s impact on figure
skating transcends national borders. Her performances have set a standard
for excellence in the sport, making her one of the ‘greatest female athletes’
in the history of figure skating.
18. Mary Kom – Boxing Legend

19. Source – NDTV Sports
Mary Kom, an Indian boxer and six-time World Champion, has shattered
gender barriers in the male-dominated sport of boxing. Kom’s tenacity, skill,
and determination have earned her numerous accolades, including an
Olympic bronze medal. Her impact extends beyond the ring, as she
continues to inspire aspiring female boxers in India and around the world.
Mary Kom’s legacy as a ‘greatest female athlete’ in boxing is firmly
established.
19. Annika Sörenstam – Golfing Trailblazer

20. Source – Golf Digest
Annika Sörenstam, a Swedish golfing legend, dominated the women’s golf
scene during the late 1990s and early 2000s. With 10 major championships
and numerous accolades, Sörenstam’s precision and consistency on the
golf course set a standard for excellence. Her contributions to the growth of
women’s golf have left an enduring legacy, making her one of the ‘greatest
female athletes’ in the history of the sport.
20. Lisa Leslie – Basketball Pioneer

21. Source – FanBuzz
Lisa Leslie, a basketball pioneer, revolutionized the women’s game with her
athleticism and skill. As a three-time WNBA MVP and four-time Olympic
gold medalist, Leslie’s impact on women’s basketball is immeasurable. Her
dominance in the post and ability to change the game on both ends of the
court make her one of the ‘greatest female athletes’ in basketball history.
Leslie’s legacy as a trailblazer continues to inspire the next generation of
female basketball players.
Conclusion
The legacy of the 20 greatest female athletes of all time is a testament to
the resilience, skill, and determination of women in sports. From tennis
courts to soccer fields, from the track to the ice, these extraordinary women
have broken barriers, shattered records, and inspired millions around the
globe.

22. Their stories serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring female athletes,
reinforcing the idea that greatness knows no gender. As we celebrate the
achievements of these iconic athletes, let us continue to champion and
support the women who will undoubtedly shape the future of sports. The
legacy of these ‘greatest female athletes’ is not only a celebration of their
individual accomplishments but also a collective triumph for women in
sports worldwide.