Ranking the top 100 professional athletes since 2000

The best athlete of the Twenty first century? That is straightforward. It must be Tom Brady, the quarterback of the best dynasty America’s favourite sport has ever seen, a seven-time Tremendous Bowl champ and five-time Tremendous Bowl MVP. Yep. Tom Brady.

Besides. Besides it must be Lionel Messi, the very best participant within the world’s favourite sport, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner because the footballer of the yr. Yep, undoubtedly Messi.

Besides … no … LeBron James, proper? 4-time NBA champ, four-time Finals MVP, four-time regular-season MVP, 20-time All-NBA, most factors scored in NBA historical past. No athlete has dominated the general public dialog like LeBron has. He must be No. 1.

Besides, what about Serena Williams? Winner of 23 Grand Slam titles, the Serena Slam (holding all 4 main titles on the similar time) and 4 Olympic gold medals. And he or she received her last Grand Slam occasion win whereas pregnant, placing her profession on maintain whereas she was at her most dominant.

Besides, if you will choose a tennis participant, what about Roger Federer? He reworked a complete sport along with his artistry, his chess sport on the court docket, his blazing forehand. He received 20 Grand Slam titles and have become essentially the most beloved tennis participant of all time. Gotta be Fed.

Yeah, besides Rafael Nadal received 22 Grand Slam titles and Novak Djokovic has received 24. It’s important to choose considered one of them over Federer.

Hmm. Perhaps this is not really easy. We did not even point out the Olympians: Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps and Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles. Or Kobe. Gotta throw Kobe Bryant into the dialogue. Or Lewis Hamilton. Or Peyton Manning. Or Floyd Mayweather. Or Tiger. Geez, virtually forgot about Tiger Woods.

Sure, rating the highest 100 most achieved athletes since 2000 wasn’t fairly really easy in spite of everything — nevertheless it positive was enjoyable. Twenty-five years in the past, the ESPN SportsCentury venture ranked the highest 100 North American athletes of the twentieth century. Michael Jordan got here in first, adopted by Babe Ruth, Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown and Wayne Gretzky. (Ruth ought to have been No. 1, however hey, I am a baseball author.) We additionally ranked a horse: Secretariat got here in at No. 35.

With so many transcendent athletes over the previous 25 years, we thought it was time to do one other rating. I promise you there aren’t any horses this time (sorry, American Pharoah). In contemplating the very best athletes of the Twenty first century, nonetheless, we’ve got expanded our selections past North America. ESPN editions from across the globe contributed to the nominations and voting course of, in addition to the person sport record rankings that may comply with.

Voters had been instructed to think about solely an athlete’s efficiency since 2000. So, for Barry Bonds: He received seven MVP awards, however solely 4 of these got here after 2000, as did 317 of his 762 residence runs. Or Ken Griffey Jr.: He performed till 2010, however all of his greatest seasons got here within the Nineteen Nineties. Tiger received 13 of his 15 majors from 2000 on, so he is in good condition. Different athletes, similar to Patrick Mahomes or Nikola Jokic or Shohei Ohtani, clearly have extra greatness forward of them, so we’ll see how excessive their accomplishments up to now get them on the record.

In the long run, we acquired greater than 70,000 votes from ESPN contributors to create our prime 100.

Let the arguments start. — David Schoenfield, ESPN senior author

1. Michael Phelps, swimming

Key accomplishments: File 28-time Olympic medalist, 23-time Olympic gold medalist, most gold medals at a single Olympics when he received eight at Beijing in 2008

On the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Phelps earned a historic eight gold medals, greater than any athlete in a single Olympics, whereas breaking world information in seven of his eight races. All through the Video games, followers and members of the media tried to crack the code on what made Phelps — who finally received 23 Olympic gold medals and have become essentially the most adorned Olympian of all time — so unbeatable. His mom, Debbie Phelps, was in Beijing, and infrequently fielded their questions. Was it his size-14 toes? His extra-long arms? His breakfast routine? “No,” Debbie answered repeatedly. “It is his laborious work.” — Alyssa Roenigk

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ESPN’s High 100 Athletes: Michael Phelps

Try the athletic feats of Michael Phelps, one of many biggest swimmers in historical past and No. 1 on ESPN’s record of the highest 100 athletes of the previous 25 years.

Key accomplishments: 23-time main champion (second most by any participant all time), ladies’s file 365 main match wins, 73 profession titles are fifth most by a lady within the Open period

There’s little that Williams did not obtain throughout her record-setting profession, together with successful 23 main titles. But it surely may need been her final one which was essentially the most unbelievable. She wanted to win yet one more Grand Slam to interrupt the tie with Steffi Graf for many within the Open period (which started in 1968) — a mark Williams stated she had been “chasing for a very very long time” — and remained within the 2017 Australian Open draw even after discovering out she was pregnant shortly earlier than competitors started. She was in peak Serena type, by no means dropping a set en path to a last showdown along with her sister Venus. She defeated Venus to take sole possession of the file.

Williams performed in 4 extra main finals after her return from maternity go away and a sophisticated childbirth. She did not win one other title. “The best way I see it, I ought to have had 30-plus Grand Slams,” Williams wrote in Vogue in a 2022 essay asserting her impending retirement. “I did not get there … However I confirmed up 23 instances, and that is high-quality. Truly it is extraordinary.” — D’Arcy Maine

Key accomplishments: 10-time LaLiga champion, seven-time Copa del Rey winner, four-time Champions League winner, six-time Champions League prime scorer, 17-time FIFA FIFPRO World 11, World Cup winner, two-time Copa America winner, two-time FIFA World Cup Golden Ball winner, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, file aim scorer for Barcelona and Argentina

Messi successful the World Cup in Argentina in 2022 was maybe the most important Hollywood ending that soccer has ever seen. After dropping the 2014 last, it regarded like it might by no means occur for Messi, who had received all the things else within the sport for membership and nation, however the crowning second of his profession lastly arrived at age 34. He scored twice within the last as Argentina beat France on penalties, sparking an outpouring of emotion and celebrations across the globe. “This man transcends rivalries — even between Brazil and Argentina,” Brazil legend Ronaldo stated. “I noticed Brazilians and folks everywhere in the world rooting for Messi. It is a becoming finale for a genius who has marked an period.” — Sam Marsden

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary staff, NBA’s all-time scoring chief, 20-time All-Star, 19-time All-NBA choice, six-time All-Protection, four-time MVP, four-time Finals MVP, four-time NBA champion, three-time All-Star Sport MVP

The “48 particular” sport occurred 17 years in the past this spring. That is when James scored 29 of the final 30 factors for the Cleveland Cavaliers in a double-overtime upset Sport 5 highway win towards the Detroit Pistons within the Japanese Convention finals. The 48-point sport was a mesmerizing efficiency that stands as one of many traditional video games of this century … and it most likely does not even rank within the prime 10 of James’ playoff performances. It won’t be considered one of his prime three convention finals video games. That is what James’ greatness rests on: Nobody has ever been this good for this lengthy. That long-ago evening within the Palace of Auburn Hills is merely considered one of 29 40-point video games James has within the playoffs alone.

That win paved the best way to his first Finals, beginning a run of 10 appearances in 14 years. Throughout that stretch he received 4 NBA titles, 4 MVPs and 4 Finals MVPs with three totally different groups, in addition to two Olympic gold medals. He additionally received at the very least one highway sport in 29 consecutive playoff sequence. He has scored in double figures in 1,222 consecutive regular-season video games — the final time he did not, his son Bronny, now his Laker teammate, was 2 years previous. Quantity is not a vogue solution to measure achievement within the NBA anymore, and it lends credence to those that need to push James down all-time lists. It is the one facet of the argument to take towards James, who has primarily renamed the NBA’s file guide for himself. — Brian Windhorst

5. Tom Brady, soccer

Key accomplishments: Seven-time Tremendous Bowl champion, five-time Tremendous Bowl MVP, three-time NFL MVP, two-time AP Offensive POY, 15-time Professional Bowler, three-time first-team All-Professional, NFL file for profession passing yards/TDs

When Brady was requested which of his seven Tremendous Bowl rings was his favourite, he was keen on answering: “The following one.” That sums up the participant whom Invoice Belichick known as the “final winner” who typically performed his greatest when the stakes had been highest. Belichick famous how Brady entered the NFL as a sixth-round choose “with little to no fanfare” and left “as essentially the most profitable participant in league historical past.” Mentioned Belichick: “His relentless pursuit of excellence drove him each day. His work ethic and want to win had been each motivational and inspirational to teammates and coaches alike.” — Mike Reiss

Key accomplishments: 20-time main champion, 369 majors wins, eight Wimbledon titles (most by a person all time), 103 tour singles titles (second most by man in Open period)

It is common for knowledgeable athlete to really feel emotional throughout their last match or sport earlier than retiring. However what’s uncommon is when everybody else within the competitors is equally emotional about it. Such was the case for Federer over the last match of his profession on the Laver Cup — an occasion he co-founded — in 2022. Having beforehand introduced a doubles match alongside Rafael Nadal could be his swan tune, Nadal — his fiercest of rivals for almost 20 years — cried proper alongside him when it was over, as did Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, the remainder of their European teammates and even Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, their opponents from the World staff. “I believe we’re all going to be ceaselessly grateful to be part of the GOAT’s last match,” Sock stated later. — D’Arcy Maine

7. Simone Biles, gymnastics

Key accomplishments: Seven-time Olympic medalist (tied for many by American gymnast), 4 Olympic gold medals (2016, tied for many by feminine gymnast at single Video games)

Since successful her first nationwide title in 2013, Biles has gone undefeated in all-around competitors in each meet she has competed in, a staggering achievement in a sport that used to age-out athletes of their teenagers. Now 27, Biles punctuated her return to gymnastics after taking two years off following the Tokyo Video games by successful U.S. trials by an astounding 5.5 factors. In her third Olympics in Paris, Biles can develop into the primary gymnast to win all-around gold in nonconsecutive Olympics. She additionally has 5 abilities that bear her title — together with a vault with the very best problem stage in ladies’s gymnastics. — Alyssa Roenigk

Key accomplishments: 13 main wins (most of any participant throughout span), 11 main wins as world No. 1 golfer (9 greater than another participant all time)

Even after a record-breaking profession by which Woods received 82 instances on the PGA Tour, together with 15 main championships, and was ranked the No. 1 golfer on the planet for 281 consecutive weeks and 683 general, golf followers are nonetheless left questioning what the Corridor of Famer may need achieved had accidents and self-inflicted issues off the course not hampered him over the previous 15 years. That is a testomony to Woods’ greatness on the course, the place he received 131 instances all over the world. He received his first main at age 21 and introduced youth and power to a sport that desperately wanted it along with his fist pumps and membership twirls. — Mark Schlabach

9. Usain Bolt, monitor

Key accomplishments: Eight-time Olympic gold medalist, 100m world-record holder, solely sprinter to win Olympic 100m and 200m titles at three consecutive Olympics

Their legs are a blur. What’s in focus is Bolt’s expressive mug as he surges forward within the 100-meter semifinal on the 2016 Rio Olympics, his fourth and last Video games. Within the photograph, the now 37-year-old Jamaican is wanting again, smiling, virtually taunting the three males giving chase. The race will not be over — and but it’s. The picture was a sensation on the time and has endured as one of the crucial indelible of Bolt’s profession, which noticed him set his first world file within the 100 at 21. His 2009 world file within the 100 (9.58 seconds) nonetheless stands in the present day. — Alyssa Roenigk

10. Kobe Bryant, basketball

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary staff, Basketball Corridor of Famer, five-time champion, two-time Finals MVP, 2007-08 MVP, 18-time All-Star, 15-time All-NBA choice, 12-time All-Protection, four-time All-Star Sport MVP

For all the accomplishments Bryant amassed, the 5 championships chief amongst them, and all the otherworldly scoring feats — 9 straight 40-point video games in 2003, 4 straight 50-point video games in 2007, the 81-point evening towards Toronto, the 60-point send-off towards Utah — his lasting achievement was inspiration. The Lakers legend’s self-described “Mamba mentality” has transcended basketball, and sports activities for that matter, a branded lifestyle that followers and admirers of Bryant aspire to succeed in. It guarantees that with sufficient drive, sufficient work, sufficient will and sufficient focus, you can also form your existence the best way Bryant did.

After a horrific helicopter crash in 2020 killed Bryant, his daughter Gianna and 7 others, Bryant’s impression continues to be felt posthumously. His title is as related as ever within the NBA, with numerous gamers paying homage to the taking pictures guard by sporting Nos. 8 and 24 and the league renaming the All-Star MVP trophy in his honor. “He is like our era’s Jordan,” Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas advised ESPN final season. “How the opposite guys appreciated Jordan, that is how we’re with Kobe.” — Dave McMenamin

11. Novak Djokovic, tennis

Key accomplishments: 24-time Grand Slam singles champion; file 422 weeks as No. 1; 375 Grand Slam match wins; third in males’s singles titles (98), wins (1,110) in Open period

Lower than two months after being surprised within the Wimbledon last by Carlos Alcaraz, Djokovic refused to postpone historical past once more and earned his record-breaking twenty fourth males’s main title on the 2023 US Open. After escaping a five-set problem within the third spherical, Djokovic did not lose one other set and defeated Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 7-6 (5), 6-3 within the last. At 36, he turned the oldest man to win the US Open, and tied Margaret Courtroom’s file for essentially the most main titles in historical past. To many, the feat secured his place as the game’s biggest of all time, however, like a real competitor, he was removed from glad. “I do not put any quantity proper now in my thoughts on what number of Slams I need to win,” he stated hours later. — D’Arcy Maine

12. Rafael Nadal, tennis

Key accomplishments: 22-time Grand Slam singles champion, ATP Tour title in 19 straight seasons, 209 weeks as world No. 1, fourth-most males’s singles wins in Open period

Whereas Nadal has had success on all surfaces all through his profession, he was rightfully deemed the “King of Clay” due to his dominance on the dust. From 2005 to 2007, he had an 81-match win streak on the floor — nonetheless the longest stretch on a single floor by any man within the Open period. Nobody in historical past has received extra singles titles at a person Slam than Nadal, the winner of 14 French Open titles, in Paris. He has an undefeated file within the last on the event, and his reign has been so legendary and unprecedented {that a} statue was erected in his honor in 2021 — whereas he was nonetheless enjoying on the occasion. Federer known as Nadal’s supremacy on the French Open “one of many biggest achievements in sport.” — D’Arcy Maine

Key accomplishments: 5-time Ballon d’Or winner, five-time Champions League winner, three-time Premier League winner, two-time LaLiga winner, two-time Serie A winner, file for many worldwide targets

Ronaldo’s story is considered one of a supremely gifted athlete, however with a drive and can to win to match. His profession is greatest summed up by considered one of his personal quotes: “In case you do not imagine you’re the greatest, then you’ll by no means obtain all that you’re able to.” Ronaldo has proven that perception all through greater than twenty years on the prime of world soccer and infrequently proved it to be true. “He’s the very best,” stated his former Actual Madrid supervisor Jose Mourinho. “I noticed Maradona a few instances. I by no means noticed Pele. However Cristiano is superb. This man is the very best. Cristiano is a aim machine. There’ll by no means be one other Ronaldo.” — Rob Dawson

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary staff, four-time NBA champion, 2022 Finals MVP, 10-time All-Star, nine-time All-NBA, 2022 All-Star Sport MVP, two-time scoring chief, profession chief in 3-pointers made

Curry had been reluctant to name himself the best shooter of all time till he broke the profession 3-point scoring file. As soon as he achieved that milestone in December 2021, he wasn’t so shy about it anymore. Curry has modified the best way basketball is performed — at each stage of the game. These days you will discover children in highschool gyms going by way of the identical pregame taking pictures routine Curry does. And within the NBA, offenses are constructed round 3-point taking pictures like by no means earlier than.

If the best way he revolutionized the sport is not sufficient to solidify his standing within the NBA — and amongst nice athletes all over the world — his résumé is. After successful his first Finals MVP in 2022, to associate with his 4 titles, 10 All-Star appearances, 9 All-NBA groups and two MVPs, Curry requested: “What are they going to say now?” — Kendra Andrews

15. Katie Ledecky, swimming

Key accomplishments: 10-time Olympic medalist, seven-time Olympic gold medalist, file 21 world championship gold medals, world information in 800m free and 1,500m free

“I used to be anticipating rather a lot quicker.” That was Ledecky’s response to successful the 1,500-meter freestyle by 20 seconds at Olympic trials in June, within the quickest time clocked this yr. For greater than a decade, Ledecky has owned the race generally known as the “swimmer’s mile,” which was added to the Olympic lineup in 2020. The 27-year-old is anticipated to win gold once more in Paris, the place she can also be the favourite within the 400 free, 800 free and 4×200-meter relay. Since first breaking the world file within the 1,500 free in 2013, she has shaved 16 seconds off her time whereas additionally successful extra Olympic and world championship gold than any lady in historical past. — Alyssa Roenigk

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary staff, Basketball Corridor of Famer, four-time NBA champion, 13-time All-NBA choice, 13-time All-Protection, 14-time All-Star, two-time MVP, two-time Finals MVP

The primary 2½ seasons of Duncan’s stellar profession got here earlier than the flip of the century, however that did not cease him from cementing his spot close to the highest of this record. Even with no Rookie of the 12 months and his first NBA title, Duncan’s run within the early 2000s banked him each of his MVP awards. He earned the primary in 2001-02 with a career-best common of 25.5 factors, together with 12.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists and a pair of.5 blocks per sport. The Massive Elementary was additionally top-of-the-line defenders the league has seen, incomes his last All-Defensive staff nod in 2015 at 38 years previous. — Andrew Lopez

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary staff, Basketball Corridor of Famer, four-time champion, three-time Finals MVP, 1999-2000 MVP, nine-time All-Star, eight-time All-NBA, two-time All-Protection

When Phil Jackson took a then 27-year-old O’Neal out to dinner throughout coaching camp forward of the 1999-2000 Lakers season, the Zen Grasp challenged the middle with a lofty goal. “I advised him that he ought to make it his aim to be the MVP,” Jackson wrote in 2016. “In actual fact, I recommended to him that, by the point he retired, they need to rename the trophy the Shaq Award!”

O’Neal went on to win three MVPs through the ensuing marketing campaign: He was named co-MVP of the All-Star Sport together with Tim Duncan for posting 22 factors, 9 rebounds and three blocks in a win for the West; he was regular-season MVP after averaging 29.7 factors, 13.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists and three.0 blocks; and he was NBA Finals MVP after averaging 38 factors on 61.1% taking pictures, 16.7 rebounds and a pair of.7 blocks in a six-game sequence win over the Indiana Pacers to seize the primary of his three titles with the Lakers and 4 general. The league by no means named the trophy after O’Neal, however he did choose up the moniker “Most Dominant Ever,” which is not a foul comfort prize. — Dave McMenamin

Key accomplishments: Three-time Tremendous Bowl champion, three-time Tremendous Bowl MVP, two-time NFL MVP, two-time First Group All-Professional, six-time Professional Bowler

Mahomes not solely had one of many NFL’s greatest passing seasons ever in 2018, however he did it in his first yr as a starter. That season he turned solely the second quarterback to throw for five,000 yards and 50 touchdowns, becoming a member of the Broncos’ Peyton Manning, who did it in 2013. Mahomes put himself on a reasonably straightforward tempo in each statistical classes with a scorching begin. He had 13 landing passes within the first three video games and threw for greater than 300 yards in eight of the primary 9. He had two six-TD video games that season and hasn’t had one since. — Adam Teicher

Key accomplishments: Seven-time System One champion (joint file with Michael Schumacher), 104 race victories (file), 104 pole positions (file), 199 podiums (file)

He’s essentially the most profitable driver in System One historical past, however Hamilton’s story is about a lot greater than numbers. The primary and solely Black driver to race in F1, Hamilton has described his path to the highest as a “lonely journey,” however continues to commit his power, money and time to rising range in his sport. “I am successful all of those races, nevertheless it does not really imply something except you do one thing with the platform it gives you,” he stated after securing his seventh title in 2020. The following chapter in his outstanding story begins in 2025 when he strikes to F1’s most well-known staff, Ferrari. — Laurence Edmondson

Key accomplishments: 10-time Professional Bowler, eight-time first-team All-Professional, three-time Defensive POY (tied for many all time), HOF All-2010s Group, 2014 Defensive ROY

Donald went into his eighth NFL season with many vital achievements on the sphere for the Rams: Defensive Rookie of the 12 months, three NFL Defensive Participant of the 12 months awards and 7 Professional Bowls to start out his profession. The one factor he was lacking? A Tremendous Bowl ring. He and the Rams received that through the 2021 season, beating the Cincinnati Bengals in a sport that went all the way down to the wire. On fourth down in a three-point sport, Donald pressured Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and compelled an incomplete move to primarily finish the sport. Donald’s celebration can be remembered, too: He ran round along with his arms outstretched after which pointed at his left ring finger, the place his first Tremendous Bowl ring would go. — Sarah Barshop

Key accomplishments: Three-time WNBA champion, two-time Finals MVP, five-time Olympic gold medalist, 2009 WNBA MVP, 10-time All-WNBA first staff, 2004 Rookie of the 12 months, WNBA’s main profession scorer and 3-point shooter, three-time NCAA champion, two-time Remaining 4 Most Excellent Participant, 2003 Wade Trophy winner

Taurasi was born in 1982, when the NCAA event started for ladies. Twenty years later, she received the primary of three consecutive NCAA titles with UConn. Now, 22 years after that, she’s nonetheless going at 42 because the oldest lively participant within the WNBA. The one participant within the league to hit 10,000 factors, Taurasi has spent her complete profession with the Phoenix Mercury and has led the WNBA in scoring 5 instances. Enjoying in her sixth Olympics this summer season, she is revered for her longtime management of Group USA in addition to the Mercury, and for her unwavering swagger. — Michael Voepel

Key accomplishments: NHL 100 Best, two-time Richard Trophy, two-time Ross Trophy, two-time Hart Trophy, three-time Lindsay Award, three-time Stanley Cup champion (two-time Conn Smythe), 1,596 factors (tenth all time)

Crosby’s teammate Kris Letang recalled how, in Sport 6 of the Stanley Cup Remaining towards the San Jose Sharks, Crosby vowed that he and Letang would staff up on the “largest aim” of the evening. They wound up connecting for a sport winner that secured Pittsburgh’s fourth Cup in franchise historical past. Letang was understandably surprised by Crosby’s fortune-telling prowess on such a big stage. However Crosby impresses within the smaller moments, too. Former linemate Conor Sheary recalled Crosby assuring him after they had been paired collectively that Sheary was “there for a motive and to play my sport.” It was the kind of calming presence Sheary wanted from Crosby and a gesture he has by no means forgotten. — Kristen Shilton

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary staff, Basketball Corridor of Famer, 2008 NBA champion, 2003-04 MVP, 2007-08 Defensive Participant of the 12 months, 13-time All-Star, 12-time All-Protection staff, eight-time All-NBA choice, 2003 All-Star Sport MVP

Garnett was famously loyal to Minnesota, main the Timberwolves to their first playoff sequence victories when he piloted them to the 2004 Western Convention finals. However regardless of successful his lone MVP award that season, it was in Boston the place he would cement himself in historical past. He and Ray Allen teamed up with Paul Pierce to usher in a brand new huge three period within the NBA and lead the Celtics to the 2008 title, plus one other NBA Finals look two seasons later. Garnett bellowing “Something is feasible!” within the aftermath of the Celtics’ Sport 6 victory over their archrivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, has develop into an indelible championship second. — Tim Bontemps

Key accomplishments: Three-time MVP, 2001 Rookie of the 12 months, 11-time All-Star, two-time Gold Glove winner, six-time Silver Slugger, two-time World Sequence champion, 703 HR (fourth)

They known as him The Machine. Pujols’ swing was direct and to the purpose: energy emanating from his decrease half, firing by way of fingers he used with the precision of a surgeon, his bat a weapon that positioned him among the many sport’s biggest right-handed hitters ever. Rogers Hornsby, Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Joe DiMaggio, Albert Pujols. He belongs. A Thirteenth-round draft choose who can be a first-ballot Corridor of Famer in 2028, Pujols’ lone ding is an end-of-career fade with the Angels. In 12 seasons with the Cardinals, he was plain. — Jeff Passan

25. Floyd Mayweather, boxing

Key accomplishments: 50-0 file (27 KOs) from 1996 to 2017, five-division world champion, longtime pound-for-pound No. 1

Mayweather received world titles in 5 weight courses and dominated the pound-for-pound rankings from 2005 to 2015. His immaculate protection, with a trademark shoulder roll approach to dam punches, together with elegant footwork, blurring hand pace and pinpoint accuracy helped him beat the very best of his period — Manny Pacquiao, Oscar De La Hoya, Canelo Alvarez, Miguel Cotto, Ricky Hatton and Juan Manuel Marquez, amongst others.

His determination win over Pacquiao generated greater than $600 million in 2015 and stays the most important battle in many years. Mayweather’s bout towards former MMA champion Conor McGregor in 2017 additionally generated greater than $600 million, second most all time. Mayweather’s wealth of boxing expertise made him the world’s highest-paid athlete in 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2018 (in response to Forbes). — Nick Parkinson

26. Peyton Manning, soccer

Key accomplishments: Corridor of Famer (2021), two-time Tremendous Bowl champion, five-time NFL MVP (most all time), 14-time Professional Bowler, seven-time First Group All-Professional.

Manning already had a Corridor of Fame profession when he arrived in Denver in 2012 — 11 Professional Bowl alternatives, 5 first-team All-Professional alternatives, 9 4,000-yard passing seasons and a Tremendous Bowl win in his 14 years with the Colts. He signed with the Broncos after a missed season in 2011, his fourth neck surgical procedure and a little bit of uncertainty about whether or not bodily he might play on the stage he wished. His 4 years in Denver answered these questions with 4 AFC West titles, two Tremendous Bowl journeys and a Tremendous Bowl win.

His masterpiece may need been the 2013 season, when the Broncos broke the league’s scoring file with 606 factors and Manning set information with 5,477 passing yards and 55 touchdowns, together with seven within the season opener. The Broncos topped 40 factors six instances and 50 factors thrice. Present Dolphins affiliate head coach and former Broncos assistant Eric Studesville stated: “I’ve by no means seen something like Peyton and people guys that yr. I do not assume anyone has. That was simply an all-time nice with the ball in his fingers doing all-time nice issues at a stage no one else has been to.” — Jeff Legwold

Key accomplishments: Corridor of Famer (2018), six-time Professional Bowler, four-time First Group All-Professional, 156 profession TD receptions (second all time).

At 6-foot-4 and with a 47-inch vertical leap, Moss might attain or leap over the tallest defensive backs who tried to cowl him — therefore the phrase “You bought Mossed.” However with pace that was measured beneath 4.3 seconds within the 40 throughout a non-public exercise earlier than the 1998 draft, Moss additionally might run away from the quickest defenders, be it on deep routes and even on what would now be known as “bubble screens.” Different components contributed to his success as effectively, however the league had by no means earlier than seen a participant like Moss. — Kevin Seifert

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ESPN’s High 100 Athletes: Randy Moss

Try the athletic feats of Randy Moss, one of many biggest NFL gamers in historical past and No. 27 on ESPN’s record of the highest 100 athletes of the previous 25 years.

Key accomplishments: 2023 NBA champion, 2023 Finals MVP, three-time MVP, six-time All-Star, five-time All-NBA choice, 2023 Western Convention finals MVP.

Earlier than the Clippers would blow a 3-1 lead within the second spherical towards Denver contained in the bubble in 2020, Doc Rivers was requested who Jokic reminded him most of. Rivers could not choose only one legendary huge man. “He has all of the footwork and the strikes of an [Hakeem] Olajuwon,” Rivers stated. “The lanky and goofy intelligence of Kevin McHale. … He is the very best passing huge that I’ve seen, I believe, ever. [And] I do know [Bill] Walton was considered one of [the best ever].” Rivers may need really undersold Jokic. This was earlier than the Nuggets celebrity received three MVP awards, a championship and a Finals MVP. At 29, Jokic continues to yearly put up numbers the league hasn’t seen from a giant man since Wilt Chamberlain, and he is removed from accomplished. — Ohm Youngmisuk

29. Michael Schumacher, auto racing

Key accomplishments: Seven-time System One champion (joint file with Hamilton), 91 race victories, 68 pole positions, 155 podiums (all second all time).

“The hardest rival I ever had,” Fernando Alonso stated of Schumacher, voicing a sense shared by most who raced towards him. Firstly of the brand new millennium Schumacher had no equal. Ruthless and unforgiving on monitor, his ardour and drive off it helped flip Ferrari into essentially the most dominant staff F1 had ever seen. The mix of his generational racing expertise and his blinding want to win in any respect prices made him enthralling and controversial in equal measure and helped him finish a 21-year look forward to a championship at Ferrari, successful 5 straight to kick off the 2000s. — Nate Saunders

Key accomplishments: Three-time MVP (tied for second most all time), 11-time All-Star, nine-time Silver Slugger, 2012 AL Rookie of The 12 months, lively profession chief in WAR (86.1 per Baseball-Reference).

Solely three hitters have piled up extra WAR because the century started than Trout, and all of them had greater than a decade head begin on him when he launched, totally fashioned, into the majors at age 19, two years after going twenty fifth within the 2009 draft. That is how rapidly Trout leaped into the dialog concerning the sport’s historic elite. As maybe the primary star whose greatness was sharpened by modern analytics, Trout’s all-around dominance was on show from the beginning.

At 32, Trout has received three MVP awards and completed within the prime 5 of balloting seven different instances. Accidents have slowed his momentum, but when Trout can string collectively just a few extra wholesome campaigns, the child from Millville, New Jersey, might but transcend his standing as the very best of his era and problem for the crown of greatest ever, interval. — Bradford Doolittle

Key accomplishments: Three-time Cy Younger winner, 2014 MVP, 10-time All-Star, 5 ERA titles, Triple Crown winner, Gold Glove winner, 2020 World Sequence champion, no-hitter in 2014.

Early within the 2016 season, then-San Francisco Giants ace Madison Bumgarner stated of his nice West Coast rival: “Are we watching the very best ever at his greatest?” Perhaps so. Throughout his peak from 2011 to 2017, Kershaw went 118-41 with a 2.10 ERA. At the same time as he has battled accidents, he has remained efficient: His profession 2.48 ERA is the bottom for a beginning pitcher since 1920 and his successful proportion is the very best since 1900 for a pitcher with 2,000 innings. The Los Angeles Dodgers lefty has by no means been the toughest thrower, however he’s a perfectionist who as soon as went almost 4 seasons with out permitting a house run on his curveball. — David Schoenfield

32. Marta, soccer

Key accomplishments: Six-time FIFA World Participant of the 12 months, Brazil’s prime aim scorer all time, file World Cup aim scorer, Golden Ball winner at 2007 Girls’s World Cup, Golden Boot winner at 2007 Girls’s World Cup.

There is perhaps a temptation for Marta to remain on for one final crack on the World Cup on residence floor in 2027, however because it stands the Paris Olympics can be her final strive at a world title with the Brazilian nationwide staff. Not having such an honor doesn’t put the slightest dent in her legacy. Marta is sort of merely a very powerful participant within the historical past of ladies’s soccer. There’ll by no means be one other Marta. Gliding previous opponents, beating keepers with a wand of a left foot, Marta got here from nowhere — a poor household in a distant a part of Brazil — to legitimize the game in locations the place it struggled to be taken severely. The inspirer of hundreds of thousands of goals, the one who confirmed that the ladies’s sport will be an artwork type. — Tim Vickery

Key accomplishments: Two-time MVP (2012-13, final participant to win consecutive MVPs), Triple Crown winner in 2012, 12-time All-Star, seven-time Silver Slugger, 4 batting titles, 2003 World Sequence champion.

Cabrera arrived within the main leagues at 20, discovered himself batting cleanup within the World Sequence, whacked an opposite-field residence run off Roger Clemens and charted a course that may finish twenty years later with 3,174 hits. Cabrera’s spray chart was a factor of magnificence, with dots denoting his hits in all corners of the stadium — and 511 over the fence. He managed to hit for energy with out sacrificing his innate bat-to-ball ability, and he peaked in 2012, when he turned the primary hitter in 45 years to win batting, residence run and RBI titles in the identical season. — Jeff Passan

Key accomplishments: 2012 WNBA champion and Finals MVP, four-time Olympic gold medalist, 2011 WNBA MVP, five-time WNBA Defensive Participant of the 12 months, 10-time WNBA All-Defensive first staff, seven-time All-WNBA First Group, WNBA profession steals chief, 2002 WNBA Rookie of the 12 months, Basketball Corridor of Famer.

Expert as Catchings was, she is probably going remembered for her motor greater than another nice ladies’s basketball participant. That is evident in her fixed presence on WNBA All-Defensive groups. Catchings was the No. 3 draft choose in 2001 as a result of she was coming off a knee damage that minimize brief her senior season at Tennessee. She sat out that WNBA season however rewarded the Indiana Fever for his or her endurance by turning into the face of the franchise. Nothing exhibits Catchings’ impression greater than this: The Fever missed the playoffs simply twice in her 15-season profession however have not been again to the postseason since she retired in 2016. — Michael Voepel

35. Dwyane Wade, basketball

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary staff, Basketball Corridor of Famer, three-time NBA champion, 2006 Finals MVP, 13-time All-Star, eight-time All-NBA choice, three-time All-Protection, 2010 All-Star Sport MVP.

Who might neglect that four-game Finals run Wade had? He averaged 30 factors, 8 rebounds and 4 assists on 60% taking pictures … within the 2011 NBA Finals the Miami Warmth misplaced to the Dallas Mavericks. The brilliance of Wade’s profession was maybe dimmed a tad as a result of he teamed up with LeBron James and Chris Bosh on the peak of his powers. And the 2011 Finals will at all times be remembered for James’ stumbles and never Wade’s singular brilliance that was primarily wasted. However his profession was spectacular and his 2006 Finals four-game run — 39.3 factors and eight.3 rebounds on 50% taking pictures (and 73 free throws) — to steer the Warmth to the primary of three titles is famous.

Within the two seasons earlier than James arrived in Miami, Wade received the scoring title and twice completed within the prime 5 of the MVP voting. He willingly took a step again for James, an act that undoubtedly helped the Warmth jell and win back-to-back titles even when it meant the tip of his time on the prime of these lists. It was a team-first act he paired with a willingness to return off the bench within the 2008 Olympics for the Redeem Group. He nonetheless stands as one of many biggest taking pictures guards of all time, the very best shot-blocking guard in NBA historical past and a flag-carrying member of the enduring 2003 draft class. — Brian Windhorst

36. Maya Moore, basketball

Key accomplishments: 4-time WNBA champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, 2014 WNBA MVP, 2013 Finals MVP, five-time All-WNBA First Group, 2011 WNBA Rookie of the 12 months, two-time NCAA champion, 2010 Remaining 4 Most Excellent Participant, three-time Wade Trophy winner.

Moore was a part of a 90-game successful streak and two good seasons at UConn. Then because the WNBA’s No. 1 choose in 2011, she helped the Minnesota Lynx develop into a dynasty. Moore was recognized for her easy shot, her clutch play and the truth that successful adopted wherever she went. In six of her eight WNBA seasons, the Lynx reached the Finals. However Moore’s profession ended earlier than anticipated as she stopped enjoying at age 29 following the 2018 season to deal with social justice points. She labored tirelessly to assist free her future husband, Jonathan Irons, whose jail conviction was reversed in 2020. Moore formally retired in January 2023. — Michael Voepel

37. Ichiro Suzuki, baseball

Key accomplishments: 2001 AL Rookie of the 12 months and AL MVP, 10-time All-Star, 10-time Gold Glove Award winner, AL batting titles in 2001 and 2004.

His most well-known play is his “Star Wars” throw from his rookie season. His most well-known file is the 262 hits he registered in 2004. He was 27 when he got here to Seattle and he nonetheless completed with greater than 3,000 hits — certainly, extra profession hits, in the event you embody his Japanese totals, than Pete Rose. The enduring Ichiro hit begins with the pull of the sleeve within the batter’s field, the bat held excessive in entrance of him, then comes outracing the ball to first base. “No single quantity might ever clarify a human as thrilling, as uncommon, and as fantastic as Ichiro,” wrote sports activities columnist Joe Posnanski. — David Schoenfield

38. Barry Bonds, baseball

Key accomplishments: Since Jan. 1, 2000: 317 residence runs (MLB-record 73 in 2001), 1,128 walks, 4 consecutive MVPs (2001-04), six-time All-Star, five-time Silver Slugger, two batting titles.

Bonds is the very best residing baseball participant, and by no means was he higher than the eight seasons he performed this century. In that point, he smashed the single-season residence run file, received on base at a 51.7% clip — a determine final reached in a person yr by Ted Williams in 1957 — and got here as shut as anybody to mastering the artwork of hitting. Bonds’ steroid use has saved him out of the Corridor of Fame, however those that witnessed him play know: Twenty first-century Bonds was the closest we have seen to Babe Ruth. — Jeff Passan

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary staff, two-time champion, two-time Finals MVP, 14-time All-Star, two-time All-Star Sport MVP, 2013-14 MVP, 10-time All-NBA, four-time scoring chief, 2007-08 Rookie of the 12 months.

“I am Kevin Durant. You already know who I’m. Y’all know who I’m.” That was Durant’s conclusion to a prolonged reply about pesky Patrick Beverley’s protection towards him (with an entire lot of assist, as Durant famous) early in a 2019 playoff sequence. Durant’s level: He had proved himself as top-of-the-line scorers to ever play the sport, a four-time scoring champion who had received the earlier two NBA Finals MVPs, a mix of measurement and ability that had by no means been seen earlier than. Then he averaged 41.5 factors the remainder of that sequence because the Warriors completed off the Clippers. As he has bounced from staff to staff, there was one fixed about KD’s id: When he is wholesome, he has at all times been not possible to protect. — Tim MacMahon

Key accomplishments: 2011 AL MVP, three-time Cy Younger winner, nine-time All-Star, two-time World Sequence champion, 2006 AL Rookie of the 12 months, prime 15 in profession strikeouts, three no-hitters.

Will Verlander be baseball’s final 300-game winner? He’ll must coax 40 extra wins out of his Corridor of Fame-bound arm, but when it is ever going to occur once more, it’s going to be Verlander who does it. A real throwback to the times when ace pitchers held sway within the huge leagues, Verlander has mixed dominance and sturdiness in a approach that harkens again to the times of Tom Seaver, Bob Gibson and Nolan Ryan. With 260 wins and three,300-plus strikeouts underneath his belt and extra on the best way, that is what Verlander at all times needed to be. “I really like being a pitcher,” Verlander stated in 2018. “After I first began enjoying baseball, I at all times envisioned myself as a pitcher. I idolized Nolan Ryan, that old-school grit.” — Bradford Doolittle

41. Dirk Nowitzki, basketball

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth anniversary staff, Basketball Corridor of Famer, 2011 NBA champion, 2011 Finals MVP, 2006-07 MVP, 14-time All-Star, 12-time All-NBA choice.

Nowitzki revolutionized the best way the NBA sport is performed, a pioneer as a sweet-shooting 7-footer who thrived as a fringe menace. However the huge German is greatest remembered for an iconic put up transfer he developed halfway by way of his profession. It was his most deadly weapon when Nowitzki shattered “comfortable Euro” stereotypes by main the Dallas Mavericks to their lone title. His one-legged fadeaway is captured on the statue that stands exterior the American Airways Heart and has the inscription “Loyalty by no means fades away” — a nod to Nowitzki’s record-setting 21-year run with one franchise. “The Dirk fade,” because it’s generally known as, is recreated by stars all through the league frequently. — Tim MacMahon

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth anniversary staff, 2021 NBA champion, 2021 Finals MVP, two-time MVP, 2019-20 Defensive Participant of the 12 months, eight-time All-Star, 2021 All-Star Sport MVP, seven-time All-NBA choice, five-time All-Protection, 2016-17 Most Improved Participant.

When the Milwaukee Bucks chosen a thin child from Greece who had been enjoying basketball for less than two years with the fifteenth choose within the 2013 draft, it was not possible to foretell how his arrival would alter the franchise’s trajectory for the subsequent decade. Antetokounmpo reworked himself from an unknown however promising prospect into one of the crucial dominant energy forwards in historical past at each ends of the ground — culminating in a 50-point sport within the 2021 NBA Finals to clinch the franchise’s first championship in 50 years. The truth that he ordered 50 hen nuggets the subsequent day to rejoice solely endeared him to Milwaukee followers much more. — Jamal Collier

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ESPN’s High 100 Athletes: Giannis Antetokounmpo’s spotlight reel

Try a number of the greatest performs from NBA celebrity Giannis Antetokounmpo as he lands at No. 42 in ESPN’s High 100 athletes of the Twenty first century.

43. Alex Rodriguez, baseball

Key accomplishments: Since Jan. 1, 2000: Three-time AL MVP (2003, 2005, 2007), 11-time All-Star, seven-time Silver Slugger, 2009 World Sequence champion, 548 HR (second most since 2000).

A-Rod helped usher within the golden period of the jumbo-sized shortstop, a place lengthy reserved for expert fielders who could not hit. A gifted batsman, Rodriguez mashed for energy and common to all fields. His abundance of expertise was unassailable. He additionally drew the longest steroid suspension in baseball historical past, coloring his achievements and cooking his repute. Historical past will see Rodriguez as one of the crucial gifted gamers ever, however as is the case with all performance-enhancing drug customers, the excellence comes with an invisible asterisk. — Jeff Passan

44. Mikaela Shiffrin, snowboarding

Key accomplishments: Three-time Olympic medalist, two-time Olympic gold medalist, file 96 World Cup wins, 59 World Cup slalom victories (most in a single self-discipline).

On March 11, 2023, Shiffrin chased down a file that, for 34 years, consumed the minds and careers of numerous ski racers and have become the winningest alpine skier in historical past. She received her 87th World Cup race that day, eclipsing the longstanding file held by Swedish legend Ingemar Stenmark, which many thought of to be unbreakable. She did it, after all, rapidly, reaching 87 wins almost three years faster than Stenmark and by successful at the very least one race in all six World Cup disciplines — the one lady or man ever to take action.

However what’s most outstanding about Shiffrin’s feat is that she received 24 races and two of her 5 World Cup general titles after snowboarding essentially the most disappointing races of her profession on the 2022 Beijing Olympics and having individuals query whether or not her greatest years had been behind her. — Alyssa Roenigk

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ESPN’s High 100 Athletes: Mikaela Shiffrin

Try the athletic feats of Mikaela Shiffrin, considered one of biggest alpine skiers in historical past and No. 44 on ESPN’s record of the highest 100 athletes of the previous 25 years.

45. David Ortiz, baseball

Key accomplishments: Since Jan. 1, 2000: Corridor of Famer, three-time World Sequence champion, 2013 World Sequence MVP, 10-time All-Star, seven-time Silver Slugger, 531 HR (third most since 2000).

Above all the things, Massive Papi can be remembered for feasting within the largest of moments. As the sport’s biggest designated hitter, Ortiz had Cooperstown numbers — 541 profession homers and a .931 OPS — however that is solely the tip of Papi’s boisterous iceberg. He had 17 profession playoff homers as a part of three championship Boston Pink Sox golf equipment and hit .455 over 14 World Sequence video games. That features 2013, when, at age 37, he went 11-for-16 with two homers and eight walks within the Fall Traditional towards a St. Louis Cardinals staff that would not get him out.

After Ortiz was elected to the Corridor of Fame, longtime teammate Dustin Pedroia stated of him, “From day one, in a giant second, all the things was in gradual movement. He discovered a solution to come by way of in moments the place you dream of as a child. He did it each single time.” — Bradford Doolittle

Key accomplishments: Three-time Cy Younger winner, two-time World Sequence champion, eight-time All-Star, prime 10 all time in strikeouts, threw two no-hitters in 2015.

Scherzer pitched essentially the most dominant back-to-back video games in MLB historical past. On June 14, 2015, he pitched a 16-strikeout one-hitter, permitting solely a bloop single. In his subsequent begin, he misplaced an ideal sport when he hit the twenty seventh batter. He has had a record-tying 20-strikeout sport, postseason heroics and one of many biggest months ever in June 2019 (6-0, 1.00 ERA, 68 strikeouts) — which he achieved with a damaged nostril. He threw 98 mph whereas mixing in 4 different pitches. Most of all, although, the lasting picture can be his depth, notably his stomping round on the mound after recording one other strikeout. — David Schoenfield

Key accomplishments: Seven-time NASCAR Cup Sequence champion (tied for many all time with Dale Earnhardt and Richard Petty), solely driver to win 5 straight titles (2006-10).

The problem in the case of masking Johnson’s profession is having to constantly discover new methods to specific, “Hey y’all, this man, he is actually nice at racing inventory automobiles, is not he?!” And that is solely the second-best praise I may give to the person who received seven NASCAR Cup Sequence titles, equaling Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt, together with 5 in a row, a mark of which The King and The Intimidator by no means got here shut.

However Johnson’s most mind-bending accomplishment is that he received these Cups even because the system that awarded them was seemingly and repeatedly rigged towards him. The paddock known as it “Jimmie Proofing” as his septet of titles had been earned through three totally different factors techniques and 4 postseason format variations, all whereas steering three wildly totally different generations of race automobiles. In the meantime, he in some way has remained true to his SoCal desert city, trailer park roots — as variety and humble as he was quick and unbeatable. — Ryan McGee

48. Thierry Henry, soccer

Key accomplishments: 2000 Euros winner, two-time Premier League winner, LaLiga winner, two-time FA Cup winner, Champions League winner, Copa del Rey winner, Membership World Cup winner.

Henry revolutionized the function of the No. 9 in soccer. Tall, fast, bodily, clever, decided, boastful and charismatic, he represented a brand new variety amongst strikers. One of many biggest sportsmen of his era, he received just about all the things potential and scored unforgettable targets throughout his profession. However his most superb feat is undoubtedly going the entire Premier League season unbeaten with Arsenal in 2004. He was excellent in that marketing campaign, main his staff to an achievement by no means repeated since in fashionable English soccer.

“I imagine Thierry was on the identical stage as Pele and Maradona, undoubtedly. He was an distinctive soccer participant, however as effectively a mixture of a contemporary participant, enormous bodily expertise, technical expertise, however as effectively particular intelligence. He was one of many biggest gamers I’ve ever seen,” his former coach Arsène Wenger stated. — Julien Laurens

Key accomplishments: 5-time Liga F champion, six-time Copa de la Reina winner, six-time Champions League winner, two-time Champions League last MVP, World Cup winner, World Cup last MVP, World Cup Golden Ball, Ballon d’Or winner, the Greatest FIFA Girls’s Participant winner.

Bonmatí’s 2022-23 marketing campaign is unequalled in ladies’s soccer. She received the highest prizes in membership and worldwide soccer — the Champions League with Barcelona and the World Cup with Spain — and was named the MVP in each finals. She’s a midfielder who can do all the things: dictate video games, beat gamers, create possibilities and rating. That success with Barça and Spain noticed her topped the very best participant on the planet as she was awarded each the Ballon d’Or trophy and named the Greatest FIFA Girls’s Participant for the primary time in her profession. — Sam Marsden

50. Zinedine Zidane, soccer

Key accomplishments: European Championship winner, Champions League winner, LaLiga winner, Intercontinental Cup winner.

Zidane reworked soccer right into a type of artwork. His class with the ball, his unimaginable technical capability and his abilities made him a magician. He will even be remembered ceaselessly for netting two targets within the 1998 World Cup last, after all, however most likely much more for scoring essentially the most stunning aim in a Champions League last ever. His volley with Actual Madrid towards Bayer Leverkusen in 2002 was the purest you’ll ever see, and along with his weak foot as effectively.

“Enjoying alongside him was simply unimaginable. There have been video games the place opponents couldn’t get near him, couldn’t get the ball off him. The ball was glued to toes. Even at coaching, he could be unplayable at instances!” his former teammate Robert Pires stated. — Julien Laurens

51. Steve Nash, basketball

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary staff, Basketball Corridor of Famer, two-time MVP, eight-time All-Star, seven-time All-NBA, five-time assists chief.

Earlier than phrases like “effectivity” and “tempo” turned as frequent a part of the NBA parlance as “slam dunk” and “pick-and-roll,” there was a diminutive guard from Canada who, as a up to date of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal within the late Nineteen Nineties by way of early 2000s, ended up with as many regular-season MVPs as the 2 of them mixed. Beneath the revolutionary tutelage of coach Mike D’Antoni with the Phoenix Suns, Nash received the award in 2005 and 2006 as the purpose guard on the heralded “7 Seconds or Much less” groups that made it to 3 Western Convention finals in six years. Whereas Nash by no means received a hoop, he maximized his abilities as a 6-foot-3 level guard, taking pictures 50% general, 40% from 3 and 90% from the free throw line in 4 seasons and main the league in assists 5 instances. — Dave McMenamin

52. Adrian Beltré, baseball

Key accomplishments: Since Jan. 1, 2000: five-time Gold Glove winner, two-time Platinum Glove winner, four-time All-Star, 455 HRs in profession (fifth most since 2000); Corridor of Famer.

The lore of Beltre has grown since his retirement following the 2018 season and positioned him alongside Mike Schmidt and Brooks Robinson among the many sport’s greatest third basemen. Nobody at third performed extra video games than Beltre, a testomony to his willingness to grit by way of ache. He manned the place with grace and consistency, two tenets that apply to the remainder of his sport. Beltre’s counting stats by no means screamed celebrity, he by no means received an MVP and his allergy to walks restricted his ceiling. However that is all ancillary to the reality of who Adrian Beltre was: the final word ballplayer’s ballplayer. — Jeff Passan

53. Derek Jeter, baseball

Key accomplishments: Since Jan. 1, 2000: two-time World Sequence champ, 2000 World Sequence MVP, Corridor of Famer, 2,658 hits (fifth-most since 2000), 141 postseason hits (most since 2000), 12-time All-Star.

Few gamers have had as many iconic moments: The Jeffrey Maier residence run final century, the flip, the dive, Mr. November, the house run for hit No. 3,000, the walk-off single in his last sport. He did all of it within the strain cooker of New York, enjoying for the game’s most fabled franchise. Jeter’s legend can’t be separated from the pinstripes he wore: Earlier than he joined the Yankees, they hadn’t received a World Sequence in 18 years; with him, they received 5. He has been retired 10 years now and we nonetheless hear Yankee Stadium PA announcer Bob Sheppard: “Now batting for the Yankees … No. 2 … Derek … Jeter.” — David Schoenfield

Key accomplishments: NHL 100 Best, Stanley Cup champion (Conn Smythe), second all time with 853 targets, NHL-record 312 power-play targets, nine-time Richard Trophy, three-time Hart Trophy and Lindsay Award, 2006 Calder Trophy, 2008 Artwork Ross Trophy.

There is not a participant within the NHL who has commanded a slap shot like Ovechkin in his profession. Even when Father Time has begun catching up in some areas, the pure energy behind his signature shot stays. Ovechkin’s success scoring 853 targets (so far) has come largely due to how he makes use of a giant body (6-foot-2) so as to add velocity and energy behind a shot that may exceed 100 mph. When Ovechkin places his weight behind a puck — significantly from his favourite right-circle spot — it is a howitzer for any goalie to cease. No marvel so many have did not maintain Ovi from lighting the lamp. — Kristen Shilton

Key accomplishments: Ballon d’Or winner, six-time Champions League winner, four-time LaLiga winner, World Cup finalist, Croatia’s most-capped participant, joint-most trophies received with Actual Madrid.

“I would wish to ask you to by no means retire.” As information convention questions go, it was unconventional, however the Italian journalist’s plea — after Modrić’s Croatia was eradicated from Euro 2024 — was met with applause, echoing the sentiment. All people loves Modrić. “In addition to being a prime participant, top-of-the-line on the planet, he is much more spectacular as an individual,” Actual Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti stated. Greater than another participant, Modrić was elementary in creating Madrid’s relentless successful tradition over the previous decade. There isn’t any one standout second — bar, maybe, main underdogs Croatia to a World Cup last in 2018 — however relatively yr after yr of constant excellence. — Alex Kirkland

Key accomplishments: Eight-time Liga F champion, eight-time Copa de la Reina winner, three-time Champions League winner, Champions League Participant of the Season winner, World Cup winner, two-time Ballon d’Or winner, two-time The Greatest FIFA Girls’s Participant winner.

Putellas’ profession has been a battle on and off the pitch. On the pitch, she has reworked Spanish soccer, enjoying a component in Barça successful three Champions Leagues in 4 years and Spain turning into world champions. Off the pitch, she led the battle towards the Spanish Soccer Federation for improved working circumstances. She has develop into an icon in Barcelona, the place her picture has stuffed enormous promoting boards within the metropolis centre, and he or she is named La Reina. “She is the captain and the queen of Barcelona for a motive,” teammate Lucy Bronze stated after Putellas’ aim within the 2024 Champions League last. “She confirmed in the present day why she is a back-to-back Ballon d’Or winner.” — Sam Marsden

57. Calvin Johnson, soccer

Key accomplishments: Corridor of Famer, six-time Professional Bowler, three-time first-team All-Professional, HOF All-2010s Group, single-season receiving yards file.

Often called Megatron, Johnson was on the peak of his powers in 2012. That is when he set an NFL single-season file with 1,964 receiving yards, breaking Jerry Rice’s file of 1,848 that had stood since 1985. “It was an unbelievable factor to play with a man like that. I believe from day one, I knew that I used to be throwing to a Corridor of Famer so long as he stayed wholesome,” Matthew Stafford, Johnson’s quarterback through the receiver’s final seven seasons with the Detroit Lions, advised ESPN in 2021. “He was a particular participant and an ideal individual, an ideal teammate.” At 6-foot-5 and 237 kilos, Johnson possessed a 42½-inch vertical leap that allowed him to outjump defenders in online game trend. — Eric Woodyard

58. J.J. Watt, soccer

Key accomplishments: 5-time Professional Bowler, five-time first-team All-Professional, three-time Defensive POY (tied for many all-time), HOF All-2010s Group, solely participant with 20-plus sacks in a number of seasons.

Watt received three NFL Defensive Participant of the 12 months awards in his profession, however his most dominant season got here in 2014. He had 20.5 sacks, the second time he’d accomplished that in his profession, in addition to 59 solo tackles, 29 tackles for loss, 4 pressured fumbles and an 80-yard interception return for a landing. Watt had one other defensive landing that season, and he had three offensive touchdowns. He received his second NFL Defensive Participant of the 12 months award that season and completed second to quarterback Aaron Rodgers in MVP voting. Watt acquired 13 of fifty MVP votes that season, essentially the most by a defender since Lawrence Taylor received the award in 1986. — Sarah Barshop

59. Mariano Rivera, baseball

Key accomplishments: Since Jan. 1, 2000: Corridor of Famer, two-time World Sequence winner, 11-time All-Star, 523 saves and 29 postseason saves (each most since 2000).

Rivera was inevitability personified. Thriving in baseball’s most mercurial of roles — the ninth-inning reliever — he emerged from the bullpen to the pounding tones of Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” evening after evening, yr after yr. Each time he did so, dread-filled Yankees opponents knew the bell was tolling — for them. Armed with one pitch — a cutter that righty hitters waved at and lefty hitters couldn’t barrel up — Rivera turned New York’s nearer in 1997 and by no means put up something however stellar seasons on his solution to a 2.21 lifetime ERA and file 652 saves. For all of that, he was higher than anybody within the postseason, posting a 0.70 ERA and 42 saves over 96 playoff video games. — Bradford Doolittle

60. Candace Parker, basketball

Key accomplishments: Three-time WNBA champion, 2016 Finals MVP, two-time Olympic gold medalist, two-time WNBA MVP, seven-time All-WNBA First Group, 2008 WNBA Rookie of the 12 months, 2020 WNBA Defensive Participant of the 12 months, two-time NCAA champion, two-time Remaining 4 Most Excellent Participant, 2007 Wade Trophy winner.

Parker was recognized for with the ability to play any place, however at 6-foot-4 she was deadly as a put up participant with a various ability set. In school, Parker led Tennessee to teach Pat Summitt’s final two NCAA titles, in 2007 and 2008. The No. 1 WNBA draft choose by the Sparks in 2008, Parker had an epic first professional season: She was MVP and Rookie of the 12 months (no different participant has accomplished that) and received Olympic gold. She spent 13 of her 16 WNBA seasons with the Sparks, however received WNBA titles with Los Angeles, Chicago and Las Vegas. — Michael Voepel

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ESPN’s High 100 Athletes: Candace Parker’s spotlight reel

Try a number of the greatest performs from WNBA celebrity Candace Parker as she lands at No. 60 in ESPN’s High 100 athletes of the Twenty first century.

61. Ray Lewis, soccer

Key accomplishments: Corridor of Famer (2018), 12-time Professional Bowler, eight-time first-team All-Professional, solely participant with 40 sacks and 30 interceptions since sacks turned official in 1982.

Lewis redefined the center linebacker place as a three-down defender who made performs from sideline to sideline. His capability to make teammates round him higher established a storied custom of protection in Baltimore. From 2000 to ’12, the Ravens’ protection ranked among the many prime three within the NFL in seven of the ten seasons by which Lewis performed at the very least six video games. “Earlier than we get to his play, Ray is the best chief in staff sports activities historical past,” stated Shannon Sharpe, a Corridor of Fame tight finish who received a Tremendous Bowl with Lewis in 2000. “Nobody is even shut.” — Jamison Hensley

Key accomplishments: Two-time MVP, 2018 Rookie of the 12 months, three-time All-Star, two 40-HR seasons, 38-19 file as pitcher (3.01 profession ERA), top-five Cy Younger end.

When ESPN runs the sequel to this train in 2050, Ohtani is the likeliest candidate from baseball to fee worthy of the highest 10. His first seven years in MLB have been transcendent. What earlier than him was taken as reality — that no one can hit and pitch at a excessive sufficient stage to warrant doing each — is now null. Ohtani arrived from Japan with a freighter of hype and solely exceeded it, stretching the definition of what a baseball participant will be. “Shohei,” Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman stated, “is arguably essentially the most gifted participant who’s ever performed this sport.” — Jeff Passan

63. Allyson Felix, monitor

Key accomplishments: 11-time Olympic medalist, seven-time Olympic gold medalist, file 18-time world championship medalist.

5 Olympics. Eleven medals. Best U.S. runner in Olympic historical past. However a better take a look at Felix’s seven Olympic gold medals reveals one other facet to her success. In a sport outlined by particular person success, she may additionally be the best teammate in historical past. Felix received six of her seven Olympic gold medals as a part of relays: two within the 4×100 meters and 4 within the 4×400. Her solely particular person gold got here on the 2012 London Video games within the 200 meters after taking silver within the earlier two Olympics. That Felix skilled a lot of her success whereas supporting her teammates comes as no shock.

Within the years since she retired from the game, she has been an outspoken advocate for Black ladies’s maternal well being care and pay fairness and protections for ladies athletes after childbirth. — Alyssa Roenigk

64. Mia Hamm, soccer

Key accomplishments: Two-time World Cup winner, two-time Olympic gold medalist, two-time NCAA Division I champion, three-time ESPYS winner, U.S. Soccer Corridor of Famer.

Hamm is probably the primary international celebrity to emerge out of ladies’s soccer, and he or she was a reluctant one at that. However on the sphere, in distinction, she performed with the arrogance and killer intuition you’d anticipate from one of many world’s biggest aim scorers. She had a knack for distinctive ball management and precision in her pictures. That is why she nonetheless is the No. 2 targets chief for the USWNT, with 158 worldwide targets. — Caitlin Murray

Key accomplishments: World Cup winner, seven-time Ligue 1 winner, four-time French Cup winner.

At the moment the very best soccer participant on the planet, Mbappé has adopted the trail of an absolute prodigy of the sport. He made his skilled debut at 16, scored his first aim at 17, performed for France at 18 and received the World Cup at 19! His transfer from PSG to Actual Madrid this summer season will take him to new heights and can strengthen much more his standing because the inheritor of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

In 2018, he took the world by storm and have become the second teenager in historical past alongside Pelé to attain in a World Cup last. In 2022, he made extra World Cup historical past along with his hat trick within the World Cup last loss towards Argentina. “He’s only a phenomenon. He’s such a generational expertise. You simply do not see many gamers like him. He’s solely 25, however his profession is already superb,” Thierry Henry stated about his compatriot. — Julien Laurens

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ESPN’s High 100 Athletes: Kylian Mbappé

Try the athletic feats of Kylian Mbappé, one of many brilliant younger stars in soccer and No. 65 on ESPN’s record of the highest 100 athletes of the previous 25 years.

Key accomplishments: UFC mild heavyweight and heavyweight champion, youngest fighter to win a UFC championship, most wins in UFC mild heavyweight historical past (20), most wins in UFC title fights (15), tied for many profitable title defenses in UFC historical past (11), longest unbeaten streak in UFC historical past (19), UFC Corridor of Famer.

There is a motive UFC president Dana White calls Jones the best combined martial artist to ever reside. In a sport the place the margin between victory and defeat is razor skinny, Jones has managed to go 16 years with out being defeated by an opponent (his solely “loss” got here through controversial DQ to Matt Hamill in 2009).

After turning into the youngest fighter to win a UFC championship in 2011, Jones went dominant on a litany of Corridor of Fame caliber fighters for the subsequent 4 years, with spectacular wins over the likes of Daniel Cormier, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, Lyoto Machida, Vitor Belfort and Rashad Evans. Not solely did he beat them, however he did so by enjoying to his opponent’s strengths after which working roughshod over them. The résumé is plain, and the accolades are nonetheless piling up. — Andreas Hale

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary staff, 2017-18 MVP, 10-time All-Star, seven-time All-NBA choice, three-time scoring chief, two-time assists chief, 2011-12 Sixth Man of the 12 months.

Harden will go down as one of the crucial prolific scorers in NBA historical past, however The Beard and his step-back had been almost unstoppable from 2017 to 2020. He began his scoring spree with an MVP season in 2017-18, averaging 30.4 factors, 8.8 assists and 5.4 rebounds. And he was even higher the next season, averaging 36.1 factors in 2018-19 — the eighth-highest common in NBA historical past. Solely Wilt Chamberlain, Elgin Baylor and Michael Jordan have averaged extra factors in a single season. He then averaged 34.3 factors in 2019-20 to win his third consecutive scoring title. His scoring overshadows his different elite ability as a passer. Harden is the one participant in NBA historical past to win three scoring titles and two help titles. — Ohm Youngmisuk

Key accomplishments: Six main victories, turned oldest main champion all-time at 2021 PGA Championship (first to win main after turning 50).

Whereas historical past continues to outline Mickelson’s legacy after he recruited golfers to the Saudi Arabian-funded LIV Golf League, there isn’t any denying he was as soon as among the many hottest gamers on the planet. The golfer generally known as Lefty broke an 0-for-46 drought in majors when he captured the 2004 Masters. He mesmerized followers along with his unimaginable brief sport and received them over with a shy grin and thumbs-up gestures. He turned the game’s oldest main champion at age 50 when he received the 2021 PGA Championship — and was a pariah in his sport lower than a yr later. — Mark Schlabach

69. Jason Kidd, basketball

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary Group, Basketball Corridor of Famer, 2011 NBA champion, eight-time All-Star, eight-time All-Protection, five-time All-NBA choice, four-time assists chief.

If not for Shaquille O’Neal and Tim Duncan and the Lakers and Spurs dynasties of the early 2000s, Kidd would possibly’ve had one other championship and an MVP on his illustrious résumé. Throughout his first two seasons in New Jersey, Kidd was on the peak of a profession that noticed him end as one of many sport’s most elite passers and versatile triple-double threats. Kidd made teammates higher in all places he went, which was by no means extra evident than throughout his first season in New Jersey in 2001-02, when he turned the Nets round from 26 wins the season earlier than to 52 wins, resulting in the franchise’s first Finals look.

Kidd, although, completed second in MVP voting to Duncan earlier than being swept within the Finals by O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. The next season, Kidd received the Nets again to the Finals solely to lose in six video games to Duncan and the Spurs. He would lastly get a championship ring enjoying alongside Dirk Nowitzki in Dallas in 2011. — Ohm Youngmisuk

70. Andrés Iniesta, soccer

Key accomplishments: World Cup winner, two-time European Championship winner, four-time Champions League winner, nine-time LaLiga winner, Ballon d’Or runner-up.

On July 11, 2010, Iniesta modified Spanish soccer ceaselessly. Within the 116th minute of the World Cup last in Johannesburg, South Africa — the sport, tied at 0-0, had gone to additional time — Iniesta collected a move from Cesc Fabregas contained in the penalty field, and coolly fired the bouncing ball low previous Netherlands goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg. Cue euphoria. Spain received the sport 1-0, lifted the World Cup for the primary time, and Iniesta immediately turned the preferred man within the nation. A sublime, skillful playmaker, he was additionally a key member of top-of-the-line membership sides of the trendy period, Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona. — Alex Kirkland

71. Manny Pacquiao, boxing

Key accomplishments: Since Jan. 1, 2000: 35-6-2 professional file, multidivision world champion, held world titles in 2000s, 2010s and 2020s.

Pacquiao was unknown when he first fought within the U.S in 2001, however he turned a file eight-division world champion. His all-attack, buzz noticed type, with punches thrown from all angles, overwhelmed ring greats similar to Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Oscar De La Hoya and Miguel Cotto.

His battle towards Floyd Mayweather took 5 years to lastly occur, and whereas it did not ship the leisure boxing followers had been anticipating, it generated greater than $600 million in complete income. Pacquiao additionally had a memorable feud with Juan Manuel Marquez, successful the primary three fights and dropping the fourth by KO. Pacquiao recovered from that defeat in 2012 to win six extra welterweight title fights by 2019. — Nick Parkinson

72. Shaun White, snowboarding

Key accomplishments: Three-time Olympic gold medalist in halfpipe (2006, 2010, 2018), 15-time X Video games medalist.

White stood on the prime of the halfpipe on the 2018 Olympics and ready to take his third and last run. He was in second place behind two-time silver medalist Ayumu Hirano, who had simply landed back-to-back 1440s. White knew he wanted to land the combo to greatest Hirano, however 4 months earlier, he’d crashed trying to be taught a cab double cork 1440 and suffered horrific accidents that required 62 stitches in his face and landed him in intensive care.

White hadn’t tried the trick since, and he’d by no means landed back-to-back 14s. However in a transfer that embodied White’s aggressive nature and the spirit of motion sports activities, he went for the combo, rode away clear and received his third Olympic gold within the occasion. “Earlier than my final run, I used to be like, ‘OK, I can reside with second,'” White stated that evening. “However I noticed at that second, I did not must.” — Alyssa Roenigk

Key accomplishments: 2018 MVP, two-time World Sequence winner (2018 with the Boston Pink Sox, 2020 with the Los Angeles Dodgers), seven-time All-Star, six-time Gold Glove, six-time Silver Slugger, received batting title in 2018.

It was a sizzling, sweltering day early in spring coaching. The Pink Sox had been coming off a 2018 World Sequence title and the coaching workers had gamers working a cone drill. Most took it gradual and leisurely. One didn’t. Perhaps that helps clarify why Betts is probably the right ballplayer — a outstanding hitter for common and energy, a proper fielder who can execute the not possible throw (ask Tony Kemp), an athlete who can transfer to shortstop mid-career. A Harvard evaluation from 2021 named Betts the very best all-around participant in MLB historical past: Sure, Betts is nice at all the things. — David Schoenfield

74. Lisa Leslie, basketball

Key accomplishments: Two-time WNBA champion, two-time Finals MVP, three-time Olympic gold medalist, three-time WNBA MVP, two-time WNBA Defensive Participant of the 12 months, seven-time All-WNBA First Group, Basketball Corridor of Famer.

Leslie was a highschool phenom in Inglewood, California, who performed collegiately at USC and professionally for the Los Angeles Sparks. However she made a world impression on the sport, successful 4 Olympic gold medals (three since 2000) and was the nationwide staff’s mainstay within the put up her complete USA Basketball profession. Leslie led the Sparks to the 2001 and 2002 WNBA titles and the 2003 Finals. Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes and Lauren Jackson are the WNBA’s solely three-time MVPs. She is the trendy mannequin for her place; fittingly, the Corridor of Fame/WBCA honor for ladies’s school facilities was named the Lisa Leslie Award in 2018. — Michael Voepel

75. Xavi Hernandez, soccer

Key accomplishments: World Cup winner, two-time European Championship winner, two-time Champions League winner, eight-time LaLiga winner.

Xavi had so many profession highs that it is not possible to choose only one. You would possibly select Barcelona’s well-known 6-2 win at rivals Actual Madrid, Xavi enjoying a component in 4 of the targets. Or his efficiency within the 2009 Champions League last, supplying the move for Lionel Messi’s headed opening aim. You may choose Barcelona’s dominant 3-1 win over Manchester United in 2011. For a sport that summed up an period, you’d spotlight Spain’s 4-0 demolition of Italy at Euro 2012, the apotheosis of their tiki-taka short-passing type, which Xavi personified. However let’s select a complete season: Xavi’s imperial 2008-09, when the midfielder — arguably the sport’s best-ever passer — registered a staggering 20 assists in 35 LaLiga matches. — Alex Kirkland

76. Georges St-Pierre, MMA

Key accomplishments: UFC Corridor of Famer, UFC welterweight and middleweight champion, 9 UFC welterweight title defenses.

Arguably no fighter in UFC historical past bridged the hole higher from the game’s “older days” to its fashionable type. Significantly from 2006 to 2013, St-Pierre represented all the things combined martial arts was searching for. He was primarily good in these years, successful 14 of 15 bouts, together with 12 title fights. At one level, he received 33 consecutive rounds. He was solely liable for an explosion of fan curiosity in Canada and was one of many promotion’s largest stars globally. His type was forward of its time, recognized for mixing a wide range of abilities seamlessly collectively. He’s additionally remembered as one of the crucial outspoken critics of performance-enhancing medication throughout his period. — Brett Okamoto

77. Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce, monitor

Key accomplishments: Eight-time Olympic medalist, three-time Olympic gold medalist, file 5 100-meter world titles, oldest sprinter (35 in 2022) to win world title.

Sooner or later after Usain Bolt’s win within the 100 meters on the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Fraser-Pryce turned the primary lady from the Caribbean to win Olympic gold within the occasion. 4 years later, she defended her title within the 100 (as did Bolt), additional cementing Jamaica’s repute as a sprinting powerhouse. Solely 5 toes tall and usually sporting rainbow locks, the “Pocket Rocket” has medaled in monitor and subject’s quickest race up to now 4 Video games. In Paris, her fifth and last Olympics, Fraser-Pryce will line up as soon as extra with the aim of reclaiming her title because the quickest lady alive. — Alyssa Roenigk

78. Bernard Hopkins, boxing

Key accomplishments: 55-8-2 file (32 KOs) from 1988 to 2016, oldest ever boxing world champion at age 49, 20 middleweight title defenses, two-division world champion

Hopkins’ otherworldly longevity noticed him fittingly name himself “The Alien” late in a 28-year skilled profession. He made a file 20 world middleweight title defenses (1996-2005) and stopped Oscar De La Hoya with a physique shot to develop into undisputed champion in 2004. The Philadelphia native’s ring IQ and distinctive conditioning allowed him to win world titles effectively into his 40s. In 2011, Hopkins outpointed Jean Pascal for the sunshine heavyweight title to develop into the oldest boxing world champion at 46 years previous. Two years later, Hopkins received again a lightweight heavyweight title, and in 2014, at age 49, he defeated mild heavyweight champion Beibut Shumenov. — Nick Parkinson

Key accomplishments: Two-time MVP (2015 and 2021), 2012 NL Rookie of the 12 months, seven-time All-Star, three-time Silver Slugger, 2022 NLCS MVP, 2018 HR Derby champion at Nationals Park

He was on the quilt of Sports activities Illustrated at 16 with the headline “Baseball’s Chosen One” and has in some way managed to reside as much as the hype, together with a number of the greatest postseason numbers of all time. He even helped make baseball enjoyable once more — from his all-out type of play to his inexperienced Phillie Phanatic cleats. Hardly ever has there been a extra good match between ballplayer and metropolis than Harper and Philadelphia. “He brings you into his sport along with his expertise and grit. That resonates with the fan base,” stated former Phillies nice Chase Utley. — David Schoenfield

80. Andy Murray, tennis

Key accomplishments: Three-time Grand Slam singles champion, completed in prime 10 for 9 consecutive years (2008-16), two-time Olympic gold medalist in singles.

As soon as part of the game’s Massive 4, Murray was primarily faraway from the dialog as Federer, Nadal and Djokovic emerged in a league of their very own. However even whereas his tally of three main championships pales compared to these of his prime friends, there was maybe no victory extra memorable than Murray’s first title at Wimbledon in 2013. A yr after coming devastatingly near successful his residence Slam, a decided Murray held off Djokovic in three convincing units to win his maiden main title. By no means one to have the ability to conceal his feelings, Murray brazenly sobbed on the court docket after the victory, proving simply how a lot it meant to him. The BBC known as the achievement “the Holy Grail” for British sport. — D’Arcy Maine

81. Sheryl Swoopes, basketball

Key accomplishments: 4-time WNBA champion, three-time Olympic gold medalist, three-time WNBA MVP, three-time WNBA Defensive Participant of the 12 months, five-time All-WNBA First Group, Basketball Corridor of Famer.

Swoopes, a key a part of the Houston Comets’ dynasty, received the final of her 4 WNBA titles in 2000 and was the league’s MVP in 2000, 2002 and 2005. Identified for three-level scoring, she was additionally top-of-the-line disrupters of passing lanes in ladies’s hoops historical past, which helped result in her being honored because the WNBA’s greatest defensive participant in 2000, 2002 and 2003. Two of her three Olympic golds got here in 2000 and 2004, and he or she performed within the WNBA till age 40. — Michael Voepel

82. Kohei Uchimura, gymnastics

Key accomplishments: Seven-time Olympic medalist, three-time Olympic gold medalist, six-time particular person all-around world champion.

Over an eight-year interval from 2009 to 2016, Uchimura dominated males’s gymnastics, going undefeated in all-around competitors, successful back-to-back Olympic titles and main the Japanese staff to gold on the Rio Video games. He retired from the game in 2022 with a repute for pairing excessive problem with unmatched consistency and flawless execution and is broadly thought of to be the GOAT of males’s gymnastics.

In considered one of his most memorable all-around performances, Uchimura averaged greater than a 9.0 execution rating on each equipment to take the all-around title on the 2011 world championships in Tokyo, which had been held seven months after an earthquake and tsunami devastated northeast Japan. — Alyssa Roenigk

Key accomplishments: NBA seventy fifth Anniversary staff, 12-time All-Star, 11-time All-NBA choice, nine-time All-Protection, 2013 All-Star Sport MVP, 2005-06 Rookie of the 12 months, six-time steals chief, five-time assists chief.

Paul has run 1000’s of pick-and-rolls to perfection and dished the ball out for almost 12,000 assists, however his biggest accomplishment may need been reworking the LA Clippers from annual punching baggage to perennial playoff contenders whereas orchestrating the unforgettable Lob Metropolis groups. Earlier than Paul’s arrival in Los Angeles, the franchise had made the postseason simply seven instances in its historical past.

Paul’s Clippers made the playoffs six consecutive instances as he delivered a number of the most scintillating alley-oops in NBA historical past to Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan. Clippers followers will not neglect Paul’s Sport 7-winning working financial institution shot that capped off a 27-point efficiency towards the defending champion San Antonio Spurs within the first spherical in 2015. — Ohm Youngmisuk

84. Lauren Jackson, basketball

Key accomplishments: Two-time WNBA champion, 2010 Finals MVP, three-time Olympic silver and one-time bronze medalist, three-time WNBA MVP, 2007 WNBA Defensive Participant of the 12 months, seven-time All-WNBA first staff, two-time WNBA All-Defensive first staff, Basketball Corridor of Famer.

Jackson is the very best ladies’s basketball participant from Australia, and top-of-the-line from wherever. Drafted No. 1 by the Seattle Storm at age 19 in 2001, she is considered one of three gamers to be a three-time WNBA MVP. She led the Storm to the 2004 and 2010 league titles, and her 2007 and 2006 seasons are the highest two in participant effectivity score in WNBA historical past. Jackson was recognized for her highly effective inside presence offensively and defensively. Her WNBA profession ended after the 2012 season due to damage points, however she later resumed her profession in Australia and has made her fifth Olympic staff this yr at age 43. — Michael Voepel

Key accomplishments: Two-time Finals MVP, two-time NBA champion, six-time All-Star, five-time All-NBA choice, two-time Defensive Participant of the 12 months.

Not even an LA Clippers tenure marred by accidents can diminish a legacy that solely a handful of gamers in historical past can match or prime. Leonard is considered one of 12 gamers to ever win two NBA Finals MVP trophies. None of them, nonetheless, led a Canadian staff to the nation’s first NBA championship. In main Toronto to the title in 2019, Leonard cemented himself as one of many sport’s most clutch gamers when wholesome within the playoffs. He delivered one of the crucial legendary buzzer-beaters in playoff historical past when his twisting nook jumper softly bounced on the rim 4 instances and in to get rid of Philadelphia in Sport 7 of the Japanese Convention semifinals that season.

Even throughout his five-year Clippers tenure, Leonard has proven indicators of dominance when wholesome. He simply has to complete a postseason wholesome once more, one thing he hasn’t accomplished because the 2020 bubble. — Ohm Youngmisuk

Key accomplishments: Seven-time main singles champ, five-time Wimbledon champ, 270 main match wins (fifth most by a lady within the Open period), a file 89 profession main appearances in singles.

The elder Williams sister burst onto the tennis scene as an enthusiastic and joyful teenager, and certain would have received many extra titles if not for the arrival of Serena. Whereas Williams’ outcomes have been outstanding, and he or she has essentially the most main titles amongst lively ladies on tour, she has been equally influential off the court docket as a champion for gender equality in tennis and past.

Whereas advocating for equal pay at Wimbledon, Williams requested event officers at a gathering a easy query: “Would you need your daughter or your sister or your mom or your spouse or a liked one to be a lady paid much less?'” Wimbledon began providing equal prize cash for women and men in 2007. Williams known as the achievement “the very best second of my profession” in 2023. — D’Arcy Maine

87. Ronaldo Nazário, soccer

Key accomplishments: Two-time FIFA World Cup winner, two-time Ballon d’Or winner, two-time Copa América winner, three-time FIFA World Participant of the 12 months, Golden Ball winner 1998 males’s World Cup, Golden Boot winner 2002 males’s World Cup.

The unique Ronaldo was most likely the quickest, strongest striker working with the ball within the historical past of the sport, able to variations at tempo and capable of decelerate, maintain his head nonetheless and shoot at aim with cool precision. All of those virtues had been greatest seen within the twentieth century — however the Twenty first got here up with the very best storyline. Twice his knee collapsed beneath him and he was left howling in grotesque ache. Many thought the second time was the tip of his profession.

Within the buildup to the 2002 World Cup, Inter Milan, his Italian membership, couldn’t get him match. Brazil took cost, and he took the event by storm, carrying a facet that just about did not qualify all the best way to a memorable triumph. It is among the nice comeback tales within the historical past of sport. — Tim Vickery

88. Roy Halladay, baseball

Key accomplishments: Since Jan. 1, 2000: Corridor of Famer, two-time Cy Younger winner (considered one of seven gamers to win Cy Younger in each American and Nationwide leagues), eight-time All-Star, two no-hitters.

Halladay was the product of a bygone period by which a pitcher endeavored to complete what he began. By no means gifted with overwhelming velocity, Halladay killed with paper cuts. He walked hitters at an virtually an identical fee to Greg Maddux and logged 220-plus-inning seasons like they had been nothing. His proper arm received the glory, nevertheless it was Halladay’s mind — his innate sense of find out how to pitch to each hitter — that received him 203 video games. When he died in a aircraft crash in 2017, a profound disappointment unfold by way of the game. The nice pitching artisan was gone, by no means to be replicated. — Jeff Passan

89. Annika Sorenstam, golf

Key accomplishments: Since Jan. 1, 2000: Eight main wins (most throughout span); earned 54 of her 72 profession LPGA Tour victories, competed in PGA Tour occasion in 2003.

It isn’t solely that the Swedish-born golfer received 97 instances all over the world, captured 10 main championships and is the one lady to card a 59 in knowledgeable event. Or that Sorenstam received 11 instances in 2002 — essentially the most on the LPGA Tour in almost 40 years — and have become the primary lady to play in a PGA occasion in additional than a half-century when she competed within the Financial institution of America Colonial Event in 2003. It is that when Sorenstam retired from full-time aggressive play at age 38 in 2008, she nonetheless had a few of her greatest golf in entrance of her. Throughout her Corridor of Fame profession, Sorenstam set scoring information for 72- and 54-hole tournaments. — Mark Schlabach

Key accomplishments: Two-time WNBA champion, 2023 Finals MVP, 2020 Olympic gold medalist, two-time WNBA MVP, two-time WNBA Defensive Participant of the 12 months, 2018 WNBA Rookie of the 12 months, three-time All-WNBA first staff, two-time WNBA All-Defensive first staff, 2017 NCAA champion and Remaining 4 Most Excellent Participant, 2018 Wade Trophy winner.

Wilson helped lead her hometown South Carolina Gamecocks to their first Remaining 4 in 2015 and first NCAA title in 2017. The No. 1 choose in 2018, she was drafted by the newly relocated Las Vegas Aces and has been an ideal match there. She not too long ago turned the franchise’s main profession scorer and can take part in her second Olympics. She is favored to win a 3rd WNBA MVP award and is on monitor to have the very best participant effectivity score in league historical past. She turns 28 in August however already has a statue exterior her school enviornment. — Michael Voepel

Key accomplishments: 4-time NFL MVP, 10-time Professional Bowler, four-time first-team All-Professional, HOF All-2010s staff, Tremendous Bowl XLV MVP, 475 move TDs (Packers’ profession chief).

Of all of the superlatives and milestones that can be utilized to elucidate Rodgers’ greatness, here is one that always will get missed. He is the NFL’s profession chief in touchdown-to-interception ratio (475 TDs, 105 INTS). In that approach, he was the anti-Brett Favre, but he carried on Favre’s outstanding run of success in Inexperienced Bay earlier than getting traded to the Jets. Packers coach Matt LaFleur maybe described Rodgers’ impression greatest when he stated close to the tip of Rodgers’ run with the Packers: “Lots of people have been rewarded, fairly frankly, due to his capability to go on the market and play.” — Rob Demovsky

Key accomplishments: Since Jan. 1, 2000: Corridor of Famer, 2000 Cy Younger Winner, four-time All-Star, three-time ERA title, 2004 World Sequence winner, 2000 and 2002 strikeout chief.

Earlier than Martinez and his 2004 Boston teammates ended the franchise’s epic World Sequence title drought, each Pink Sox star needed to subject limitless questions concerning the “Curse of the Bambino.” One in all Martinez’s solutions summed up how a brief, skinny righty might develop into one of the crucial dominant hurlers ever: “I do not imagine in rattling curses. Get up the rattling Bambino and have me face him. Perhaps I am going to drill him within the a–.” From 1997 to 2003, the peak of considered one of baseball’s most explosive offensive eras, Martinez was nearly as good as any pitcher has ever been, going 118-36 with a 2.20 ERA, 213 ERA+ and over 250 strikeouts per season and successful three Cy Younger Awards. — Bradford Doolittle

Key accomplishments: 122 weeks spent as world No. 1 golfer, 26 PGA Tour victories (together with 4 main wins), a Masters victory shy of finishing profession Grand Slam.

After McIlroy received his first two main championships, the 2011 U.S. Open and 2012 PGA Championship, by eight strokes after which added two extra majors in a three-week span in 2014, The Guardian of London declared that it was “the dawning of a brand new period.” There isn’t any query McIlroy has been one of the crucial constant and fashionable golfers of his era. He has received 40 instances, together with 26 instances on the PGA Tour. He’s a three-time PGA Tour Participant of the 12 months and a five-time winner of the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai. Nevertheless, McIlroy’s almost 10-year drought within the 4 majors since capturing the 2014 PGA Championship leaves him a step beneath legends similar to Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and others. Until, after all, McIlroy nonetheless has just a few extra victories coming. — Mark Schlabach

94. Ronaldinho, soccer

Key accomplishments: FIFA World Cup winner, Ballon d’Or winner, Copa América winner, two-time FIFA World Participant of the 12 months, two-time LaLiga winner.

If longevity weren’t a think about defining the best of all time, then Ronaldinho would definitely be a candidate for his feats in his first three years with Barcelona. Between 2003 and 2006, there was no higher present in soccer. There have been few, if any, extra gifted gamers within the historical past of the worldwide sport, and all too briefly Ronaldinho captivated along with his childlike glee at his personal achievements, reminding so lots of why they fell in love with the game within the first place. A disappointing 2006 World Cup was a turning level, and he appeared to develop weary of the sacrifices wanted to remain on the prime stage. However these three years had been unforgettable. — Tim Vickery

95. Zlatan Ibrahimović, soccer

Key accomplishments: 511 profession targets, scored at the very least one Champions League aim with six groups, 12 league titles with 5 European golf equipment, named to UEFA’s staff of the yr 4 instances, Sweden’s main profession scorer, represented Sweden at six main tournaments.

“I am unable to assist however chuckle at how good I’m.” There has by no means existed an athlete who was nearly as good as Zlatan Ibrahimović stated he was, however the 6-foot-5 striker did in addition to anybody might — and for so long as anybody might — at approaching that stage. He was the purest scorer this facet of Cristiano Ronaldo; he put the ball within the internet at the very least as soon as in 4 totally different many years, and he saved enhancing into his 30s. He scored at the very least 30 targets in all competitions six instances between 2011 and 2019, peaking with an unimaginable 50-goal marketing campaign with PSG in 2015-16. He was the personification of artistry and brute pressure on the similar time. — Invoice Connelly

96. Darrelle Revis, soccer

Key accomplishments: Corridor of Famer (2023), seven-time Professional Bowler, four-time first-team All-Professional, HOF All-2010s staff.

Revis took man-to-man protection to a brand new stage in 2009 when the Jets’ teaching workers made the unconventional determination to place him on the opponents’ prime receiver with no security assist. He was on his personal island, so to talk, spawning the “Revis Island” moniker. The outcome was top-of-the-line cornerback seasons in historical past. Revis held Andre Johnson, Randy Moss (twice) and Terrell Owens (twice) — all Corridor of Famers — underneath 35 receiving yards. He did the identical to Torry Holt, Steve Smith Sr., Reggie Wayne and Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson. He completed with six interceptions and a staggering 31 passes defended, incomes the primary of 4 first-team All-Professional alternatives. — Wealthy Cimini

97. Virat Kohli, cricket

Key accomplishments: ODI World Cup champion, T20 World Cup champion, two-time T20 World Cup Participant of the Event, 2023 ODI World Cup Participant of the Event, two-time ICC Cricketer of the 12 months, most centuries in ODI historical past (50), second-highest scorer in T20Is, third-highest scorer in ODIs, India’s most profitable Check captain.

Kohli received the World Cup early in his profession, however he was liable to fading away into mediocrity within the early 2010s. A fierce fitness-driven method — the type that was unusual in cricket then — coupled with unrelenting drive catapulted him from “expertise” to titan. The fireplace inside interprets onto the sphere. The Indian batter is the final word competitor and has received video games on willpower alone. The depth of his ardour sparks worry within the opposition and bedlam within the stands. Kohli wasn’t born to be the very best; he simply willed himself to be. — Shubi Arun

Key accomplishments: 5-time Artwork Ross Trophy winner, three-time Hart Trophy winner, seven 100-point seasons in first 9 NHL seasons, 2024 Conn Smythe winner.

It may very well be formidable to be touted as The Subsequent One behind Edmonton Oilers legend Wayne Gretzky. McDavid is not like the remainder, although. Edmonton’s captain has embraced that highlight as Gretzky’s inheritor obvious. It was becoming when McDavid broke a file Gretzky set in 1987-88 along with his thirty second help of the 2024 postseason throughout Edmonton’s run to a Stanley Cup Remaining. McDavid had lengthy been an distinctive playmaker in his personal proper, however the best way he carried the Oilers again from a 3-0 sequence deficit within the Remaining to pressure a decisive Sport 7 was spectacular. And it rightly earned McDavid a Conn Smythe Trophy within the dropping effort. — Kristen Shilton

99. Ed Reed, soccer

Key accomplishments: Corridor of Famer (2019), nine-time Professional Bowler, five-time first-team All-Professional, HOF All-2000s staff, 2004 Defensive Participant of the 12 months.

Reed was the final word defensive sport changer of his era. In 2004, he set an NFL file by returning an interception 106 yards for a landing towards the Browns. 4 years later, he broke his personal file with a 107-yarder towards the Eagles. Reed is the one participant in NFL historical past to attain touchdowns off a punt return, blocked punt, interception and fumble restoration.

“You see the protection’s out in the midst of the sphere and have a wide-open throw on the best. The following factor you already know he is intercepting it,” former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger stated. “The place did he come from? It is not possible. That is what made it such a problem. He made the not possible potential.” — Jamison Hensley

100. Charles Woodson, soccer

Key accomplishments: Corridor of Famer (2021), nine-time Professional Bowler, three-time first-team All-Professional, HOF All-2000s staff, 2009 Defensive Participant of the 12 months.

Woodson’s profession was a three-act play. In Oakland, as a Heisman Trophy-winning No. 4 choose, he was a hard-partying, hard-playing Corridor of Fame expertise. In Inexperienced Bay, he turned a Corridor of Famer. And along with his return to the Raiders, he turned a legend, making the swap from wild teen at cornerback to sage vet at free security. And if he misplaced a step, it was one treasured few others ever had. “It was a lovely transition,” Woodson stated, “if you’ll.” And his first NFL coach, Jon Gruden, most definitely would. The slower-paced life-style of Inexperienced Bay helped Woodson, effectively, decelerate and middle himself. “And he met and married the best lady and had children,” Gruden stated. — Paul Gutierrez

Methodology

Specialists in particular person sports activities had been requested to vote to rank the highest athletes of their sport since Jan. 1, 2000 (no accomplishments earlier than this date had been to be thought of). These votes pared down swimming pools in every sport to lists of 10 to 25 athletes every, which constituted the general candidate pool for the highest athletes of the Twenty first century up to now. Every voter was introduced two randomly chosen names and requested to choose which one has had the higher profession within the Twenty first century. Throughout repeated, randomized head-to-head matchups, greater than 70,000 votes had been forged at this stage, and utilizing an Elo score system, the record was pared down from 262 to 100. That record was then evaluated by a panel of consultants for any inconsistencies or oversights, ensuing within the prime 100 rating seen right here.