Greatest 20th century athlete

Top 20 greatest athletes of all time

From Muhammad Ali's poetic prowess in the boxing ring to Michael Jordan's gravity-defying dominance on the basketball court, the 20th century produced legendary figures whose impact continues to resonate today. This comprehensive list celebrates 27 extraordinary athletes who not only dominated their respective sports but also broke barriers, shattered records, and inspired generations.

Whether through Jackie Robinson's courage, Billie Jean King's advocacy for equality, or Wayne Gretzky's unprecedented scoring ability, these titans of sport left an indelible mark on athletic achievement and social progress. Wilt Chamberlain In the tapestry of sports history, certain athletes transcend mere statistics to become cultural icons who forever changed how their games were played.

With a career total of 38, points, he held the all-time NBA scoring record for decades. Off the court, Abdul-Jabbar is a passionate advocate for social justice and an accomplished author. Ruth began his career as a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox but achieved fame as a power-hitting outfielder for the New York Yankees. He revolutionized the game with his home run-hitting prowess, setting numerous records, including his iconic 60 homers in a single season in Ruth helped the Yankees win seven pennants and four World Series titles.

Playing for the Detroit Lions from to , Sanders dazzled fans with his elusive running style, incredible balance, and agility. Sanders retired unexpectedly while still at the peak of his career, finishing with over 15, rushing yards. His humility, combined with his breathtaking on-field performances, made him a beloved figure in football and a symbol of excellence at the running back position.

Billie Jean King Billie Jean King is a tennis legend and a trailblazer for gender equality in sports. Throughout her career, she won 39 Grand Slam titles, including 12 in singles and 27 in doubles and mixed doubles.

Top 100 athletes of all time

Her contributions to the sport and advocacy for equality have made her a lasting symbol of progress and empowerment. Bjorn Borg Bjorn Borg is a Swedish tennis star who dominated the sport in the late s and early s. Known for his icy demeanor on the court, Borg won 11 Grand Slam titles, including five consecutive Wimbledon championships and six French Open titles.