The Greatest Women Athletes Of All Time

Graf achieved a career Grand Slam in 1988, winning all four major tennis tournaments in a single calendar year. Known for her powerful and versatile playing style, Graf dominated women's tennis in the late 1980s and 1990s, earning a total of 22 Grand Slam singles titles. She held the World No. 1 ranking for an unprecedented 377 weeks. Graf's legacy extends beyond her on-court success, as she remains an influential figure in the tennis world and beyond.

Serena Williams is a tennis icon known for her powerful and aggressive playing style. She has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, the most by any player in the Open Era, and has held the World No. 1 ranking multiple times. Serena, along with her sister Venus, has been credited with revolutionizing women's tennis with her athleticism, strength, and mental fortitude on the court. Throughout her illustrious career, Serena has faced and overcome various challenges, maintaining her status as one of the most dominant and enduring figures in tennis. Beyond her athletic achievements, Serena is also recognized for her philanthropy, business ventures, and advocacy for equality in sports.

Martina Navratilova is a tennis legend known for her extraordinary versatility, dominance, and longevity on the court. She amassed a remarkable 18 Grand Slam singles titles and 31 Grand Slam doubles titles during her career. Navratilova's aggressive playing style, powerful serve-and-volley game, and exceptional fitness set her apart. She held the World No. 1 singles ranking for a total of 332 weeks, a record in the Open Era. Navratilova's rivalry with Chris Evert is one of the most iconic in tennis history.

Beyond her on-court achievements, Navratilova is admired for her openness about her personal life and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. She became a naturalized American citizen in 1981 and continued to contribute to tennis as a coach, commentator, and writer after her retirement. Martina Navratilova's impact on the sport extends beyond her impressive records, making her a true tennis icon.

Chris Evert, nicknamed the "Ice Maiden" for her calm and composed demeanor on the court, is a tennis legend who dominated women's tennis during the 1970s and early 1980s. Known for her exceptional baseline play and consistency, Evert won a total of 18 Grand Slam singles titles, including seven French Open titles and six US Open titles.

Evert's fierce rivalry with Martina Navratilova is one of the most celebrated in tennis history, and their duels captivated fans around the world. Evert's career achievements include a record 125 consecutive clay-court victories and holding the World No. 1 ranking for a total of 260 weeks.

Off the court, Evert has remained involved in tennis as a commentator and coach. Her impact on the sport goes beyond her playing days, and she is recognized for her contributions to women's tennis and her graceful presence both on and off the court.

Monica Seles burst onto the tennis scene with her powerful and aggressive playing style, characterized by two-handed strokes on both sides. She quickly rose to prominence, winning her first Grand Slam singles title at the age of 16 at the 1990 French Open. Seles continued her success with several more Grand Slam victories, including three consecutive Australian Open titles.

A significant part of Seles's career was marked by her intense rivalry with Steffi Graf. However, her career took an unexpected turn in 1993 when she was stabbed on court during a match in Hamburg. This incident resulted in a hiatus from professional tennis for Seles, and she made a comeback in 1995.

Monica Seles ultimately won a total of nine Grand Slam singles titles before her retirement from professional tennis in 2008. Beyond her on-court achievements, Seles is remembered for her impact on the game and the challenges she overcame throughout her career.

Margaret Court enjoyed an illustrious tennis career during the 1960s and 1970s. She holds the record for the most Grand Slam singles titles won by any player in tennis history, with a remarkable 24 titles. Court achieved the calendar-year Grand Slam in women's singles in 1970, winning all four major tournaments in a single calendar year.

Court was known for her powerful serve and versatile playing style. She was particularly dominant on grass courts, winning many of her major titles at the Australian Open and Wimbledon. Court's competitive spirit and consistency on the court contributed to her extraordinary success.

In addition to her singles accomplishments, Court excelled in doubles and mixed doubles, further solidifying her status as one of the sport's all-time greats. After retiring from professional tennis, Court pursued a career as a Christian minister. Her legacy in the tennis world remains significant, and she is remembered for her contributions to the sport.

Standing at 5'5", Henin defied stature with a powerful one-handed backhand and aggressive playing style, achieving seven Grand Slam singles titles, including victories at the French Open, US Open, and Australian Open. Won Olympic gold in women's singles at the 2004 Athens Olympics and held the World No. 1 ranking for a substantial period. Known for mental toughness and graceful shot-making, Henin retired abruptly in 2008 but made a brief comeback in 2010. Legacy extends beyond on-court achievements, inspiring the next generation of tennis players.

Achieving World No. 1 status for a total of 209 weeks, Hingis secured five Grand Slam singles titles, including victories at the Australian Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open. Notably, she became the youngest Grand Slam winner in the 20th century at the age of 16. Hingis also excelled in doubles, showcasing her versatility on the court. Inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2013, her impact on the sport is remembered for her early success and enduring influence.

Hailing from Long Beach, California, King's impact extends beyond her impressive 39 Grand Slam titles. Notably, she defeated Bobby Riggs in the historic "Battle of the Sexes" match in 1973, a landmark event for women in sports. King co-founded the Women's Tennis Association (WTA), advocating for equal opportunities and prize money. Her enduring commitment to social activism, including LGBTQ+ rights, earned her recognition, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Billie Jean King's legacy continues to inspire change in and beyond the world of tennis.

With four Grand Slam singles titles, including three US Open victories and one Australian Open triumph, Clijsters demonstrated her prowess on the tennis court. A versatile player, she briefly retired in 2007 but made successful comebacks, showcasing resilience and skill. Known for her powerful groundstrokes and athleticism, Clijsters left a lasting impact on the sport, earning recognition not only for her achievements but also for her positive sportsmanship.

She was one of the most prominent female athletes of her time, known for her powerful groundstrokes and competitive spirit on the tennis court.

Sharapova burst onto the international tennis scene in 2004 when she won Wimbledon at the age of 17, defeating Serena Williams in the final. Throughout her career, she won a total of five Grand Slam singles titles, including two French Opens (2012, 2014), one Australian Open (2008), and one more Wimbledon (2004).

Off the court, Sharapova was also known for her business ventures, including her own candy line called Sugarpova and various endorsement deals with major brands. She retired from professional tennis in 2020 due to persistent injuries.

Despite her retirement, Maria Sharapova's impact on tennis and her status as one of the sport's most recognizable figures remains significant.

 She is regarded as one of the greatest female tennis players of all time. Goolagong Cawley achieved tremendous success throughout her career, winning a total of 14 Grand Slam titles, including seven in singles, six in women's doubles, and one in mixed doubles.

She won her first Grand Slam singles title at the 1971 French Open and went on to win Wimbledon twice, in 1971 and 1980. Goolagong Cawley's playing style was characterized by her grace, agility, and versatility on the court, earning her the nickname "the graceful Goolagong" and the affectionate moniker "Evonne the Swan".

Off the court, Goolagong Cawley has been involved in various charitable and community initiatives, particularly focused on promoting tennis among Indigenous Australian youth. Her contributions to the sport and her enduring legacy as a role model for aspiring athletes continue to inspire generations of tennis players around the world.

 She burst onto the tennis scene as a teenager in the early 1990s and quickly became one of the sport's brightest stars.

Capriati won her first Grand Slam singles title at the 2001 Australian Open, defeating Martina Hingis in the final. She followed this success with a victory at the French Open later that year, cementing her status as one of the top players in the world. Throughout her career, Capriati won a total of three Grand Slam singles titles and reached the number one ranking in the world.

Despite facing personal challenges and setbacks, including struggles with injuries and off-court issues, Capriati demonstrated remarkable resilience and made a successful comeback to tennis after taking a hiatus from the sport. She retired from professional tennis in 2004.

Capriati's impact on tennis goes beyond her on-court achievements. Her captivating style of play and the determination she displayed throughout her career have left a lasting legacy in the world of women's tennis.

 She was known for her powerful groundstrokes, versatile playing style, and exceptional consistency on the court.

Davenport achieved great success throughout her career, winning a total of three Grand Slam singles titles, including the US Open in 1998, Wimbledon in 1999, and the Australian Open in 2000. She also reached the finals of several other major tournaments and held the world No. 1 ranking in singles for a total of 98 weeks during her career.

In addition to her singles success, Davenport was also a formidable doubles player, winning three Grand Slam doubles titles and an Olympic gold medal in doubles at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

After retiring from professional tennis in 2010, Davenport remained active in the sport as a coach and television commentator. She is widely respected for her contributions to tennis and is considered one of the greatest American female players of all time.

 She was known for her exceptional defensive skills, consistency, and athleticism on the tennis court.

Wozniacki achieved the world No. 1 ranking in singles in October 2010 and held it for a total of 71 weeks throughout her career. She won a total of 30 WTA singles titles, including the prestigious WTA Finals in 2017, and reached the finals of several Grand Slam tournaments.

Her crowning achievement came at the 2018 Australian Open when she won her first Grand Slam singles title, defeating Simona Halep in the final. This victory was particularly significant as it came at a time when Wozniacki was battling health issues and showcased her resilience and determination.

Wozniacki retired from professional tennis in January 2020 after competing in the Australian Open, citing a desire to focus on other aspects of her life outside of tennis. Throughout her career, she was known for her sportsmanship, work ethic, and positive attitude, earning admiration from fans and fellow players alike.

 She is widely regarded as one of the most talented and accomplished female tennis players of her generation.

Halep's playing style is characterized by her exceptional footwork, speed, and defensive prowess. She possesses a powerful and accurate baseline game, along with a strong serve and excellent court coverage.

Throughout her career, Halep has achieved numerous milestones, including winning two Grand Slam singles titles. Her first major victory came at the 2018 French Open, where she defeated Sloane Stephens in the final to claim her maiden Grand Slam title. She followed this up with another triumph at Wimbledon in 2019, defeating Serena Williams in the final.

In addition to her Grand Slam successes, Halep has won numerous other titles on the WTA tour, including multiple Premier Mandatory and Premier 5 titles. She has also held the world No. 1 ranking in singles for a total of 64 weeks.

Halep is known for her competitive spirit, mental toughness, and dedication to her craft. She continues to be a dominant force in women's tennis and remains a fan favorite around the world.

 She is known for her powerful left-handed game and exceptional defensive skills on the tennis court.

Kerber has had a successful career, highlighted by her three Grand Slam singles titles. Her breakthrough came in 2016 when she won the Australian Open, defeating Serena Williams in the final. Later that year, she won her second Grand Slam title at the US Open, again defeating Williams in the final. In 2018, Kerber claimed her third major title at Wimbledon, defeating Serena Williams once more.

In addition to her Grand Slam successes, Kerber has won multiple other WTA singles titles and has been ranked world No. 1 in singles by the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) on multiple occasions.

Known for her fighting spirit and tenacity on the court, Kerber is admired for her consistency and ability to perform well under pressure. She continues to be a prominent figure in women's tennis and a formidable opponent for players on the tour.

 She is known for her powerful left-handed game, aggressive style of play, and proficiency on fast surfaces like grass and indoor hard courts.

Kvitová has had a successful career, winning a total of two Wimbledon singles titles. Her first Wimbledon victory came in 2011 when she defeated Maria Sharapova in the final. She went on to win her second Wimbledon title in 2014, defeating Eugenie Bouchard in the final.

In addition to her Wimbledon successes, Kvitová has won multiple other WTA singles titles and has been ranked world No. 2 in singles by the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). She is known for her powerful serve, devastating forehand, and ability to dictate play from the baseline.

Off the court, Kvitová is admired for her resilience and courage. In December 2016, she was attacked by a knife-wielding intruder at her home, resulting in serious injuries to her left hand, which is her playing hand. Despite the setback, Kvitová made a remarkable recovery and returned to professional tennis, showcasing her determination and strength of character.

Kvitová continues to be a prominent figure in women's tennis, admired for her skill, sportsmanship, and resilience both on and off the court.

Wills won a total of 31 Grand Slam titles, including 19 singles titles, 9 doubles titles, and 3 mixed doubles titles. She won her first Grand Slam singles title at the U.S. Championships (now the US Open) in 1923 and went on to win a remarkable eight Wimbledon singles titles and seven U.S. Championships singles titles.

Known for her powerful groundstrokes, exceptional footwork, and mental toughness, Wills was virtually unbeatable during her prime. She had a dominant rivalry with French tennis player Suzanne Lenglen, which captivated tennis fans of the era.

Off the court, Wills was known for her private and reserved personality, often keeping a distance from the media spotlight. After retiring from competitive tennis in 1938, she focused on her career as an artist and lived a quiet life until her passing in 1998.

Helen Wills Moody's legacy in tennis endures, and she is remembered as one of the sport's most iconic and influential figures.

Sabatini achieved significant success during her career, winning a total of 27 WTA singles titles, including one Grand Slam singles title. Her crowning achievement came at the 1990 US Open, where she defeated Steffi Graf in the final to claim her first and only Grand Slam singles title.

In addition to her Grand Slam success, Sabatini also won a silver medal in singles at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea.

Off the court, Sabatini was known for her grace and poise, earning her admiration from fans around the world. She remains a beloved figure in the world of tennis, and her impact on the sport continues to be celebrated. After retiring from professional tennis in 1996, Sabatini has been involved in various philanthropic and business ventures.

Born in 1982, she became one of Croatia's most successful athletes, winning four Olympic gold medals and two silver medals in various skiing disciplines. Despite facing injuries and setbacks, Kostelić's resilience and determination earned her widespread admiration. Since retiring from competitive skiing in 2007, she has remained involved in the sport as a coach and mentor. Kostelić's legacy continues to inspire athletes worldwide.

While she did not win a singles title on the WTA tour, Kournikova achieved success in doubles, including Grand Slam titles and the number one ranking. Her beauty, athleticism, and outgoing personality made her a favorite among fans worldwide, and she became a pop culture icon. Despite injuries limiting her singles career, Kournikova's impact on tennis and popular culture remains significant. Off the court, she has pursued modeling, television appearances, and philanthropy. Anna Kournikova's legacy as a tennis sensation and cultural icon endures, inspiring athletes and fans alike.

Born on March 25, 1982, in Beloit, Wisconsin, Patrick made her mark as one of the most successful female competitors in motorsports. Throughout her career, she competed in series like the IndyCar Series and the NASCAR Cup Series, breaking barriers and inspiring millions with her achievements on thetrack. Patrick's groundbreaking victories, including becoming the first woman to win an IndyCar Series race in 2008, solidified her status as a trailblazer for women in sports. Since retiring from full-time racing in 2018, she has focused on her entrepreneurial ventures and continues to inspire others with her story of determination and success in a male-dominated industry. Danica Patrick's legacy as a pioneer in auto racing and an advocate for female athletes will endure for generations to come.

With numerous accolades, including Olympic gold and multiple World Cup titles, Vonn's dominance on the slopes earned her the nickname "The Queen of Speed." Despite facing injuries and setbacks, her resilience and determination propelled her to unprecedented success, inspiring athletes worldwide. Off the slopes, Vonn advocated for gender equality and pursued ventures in modeling, acting, and philanthropy. Upon retiring in 2019, she left behind a legacy of excellence and empowerment, forever influencing the world of skiing and beyond.

Throughout her illustrious career, Venus has claimed numerous Grand Slam titles, including Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Australian Open, showcasing her powerful game and strategic prowess. Alongside her sister Serena Williams, she has redefined women's tennis, inspiring countless fans worldwide with their dominance and sisterly bond. Beyond tennis, Venus is a passionate advocate for gender equality, racial justice, and education, using her platform to effect positive change. Her entrepreneurial ventures, including her own fashion line, further demonstrate her versatility and determination. Venus Williams' enduring legacy as a tennis legend and advocate for social change continues to inspire and empower generations.

Known for her undefeated record and multiple world titles, Ali made her mark as one of the greatest female boxers of all time. Beyond the ring, she's a media personality, author, and advocate for women's empowerment and health. Laila Ali's legacy transcends boxing, inspiring millions to pursue their passions with strength and determination.

Alongside her twin sister Jocelyne, she has represented the United States in international competitions, earning multiple medals, including gold at the 2018 Winter Olympics. Beyond her athletic prowess, Lamoureux is a vocal advocate for women in sports, using her platform to promote gender equality and inspire the next generation of athletes.

Competing in five Olympic Games, Torres earned a total of 12 Olympic medals, showcasing her talent, dedication, and longevity in the pool. Her remarkable career, marked by resilience and determination, continues to inspire athletes worldwide, transcending age barriers and setting new standards of excellence in swimming.

 Born on June 11, 1989, Moore rose to prominence as a standout player in both college and professional basketball. She is a four-time WNBA champion with the Minnesota Lynx and has earned multiple MVP awards and All-Star selections. Off the court, Moore is also known for her advocacy work, including efforts to reform the criminal justice system and her involvement in overturning the wrongful conviction of Jonathan Irons. Maya Moore's impact extends far beyond basketball, making her a role model and inspiration to many.

 Known for her scoring prowess, leadership, and competitive spirit, Taurasi has achieved numerous accolades throughout her career. She is a three-time WNBA champion with the Phoenix Mercury and has earned multiple MVP awards and All-Star selections. Taurasi's impact extends beyond the WNBA, as she has also excelled internationally, winning multiple Olympic gold medals with Team USA. Renowned for her clutch performances and fierce competitiveness, Diana Taurasi's legacy as a basketball legend is firmly established, inspiring athletes around the world.

Marvin has represented Team USA in numerous international competitions, earning multiple medals, including silver and gold at the Winter Olympics. Renowned for her versatility and leadership on the ice, Marvin has played a key role in the success of the U.S. women's national ice hockey team. Off the ice, she is also involved in philanthropic efforts, using her platform to support various causes. Gisele Marvin's dedication to the game and her impact on women's hockey make her a respected figure in the sport.

With a remarkable career spanning multiple Olympic Games and World Championships, Felix has earned numerous gold medals and broken records in events such as the 200 meters and the 4x400 meters relay. Beyond her athletic achievements, she is admired for her resilience and determination, overcoming obstacles such as injuries and setbacks with grace and tenacity. Off the track, Felix is a vocal advocate for gender equality and maternal health, using her platform to inspire and empower others. Allyson Felix's legacy as a track icon and humanitarian continues to inspire athletes and individuals worldwide.

 Cook has represented Australia in five consecutive Olympic Games, winning a bronze medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and a gold medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, alongside her partner Kerri Pottharst. Throughout her career, Cook has been known for her tenacity, strategic prowess, and leadership on the sand. Off the court, she is involved in various philanthropic endeavors, including promoting youth sports and environmental conservation. Natalie Cook's dedication to beach volleyball and her contributions to the sport have earned her a respected place in Australian sports history.

 McPeak has competed in multiple Olympic Games and World Championships, earning numerous accolades and victories throughout her career. Renowned for her strategic intelligence, agility, and versatility on the sand, she has been a dominant force in the world of beach volleyball for decades. Off the court, McPeak is also involved in coaching and mentoring young athletes, passing on her knowledge and passion for the sport to the next generation. Holly McPeak's legacy as a beach volleyball legend continues to inspire athletes and fans worldwide.

Evans rose to prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s, setting numerous world records and winning multiple Olympic gold medals in the 400 meters, 800 meters, and 1500 meters freestyle events. Known for her distinctive "windmill" stroke and unwavering determination, she dominated the sport and became a role model for aspiring swimmers around the world. Evans' impact extends beyond the pool, as she continues to inspire athletes through her coaching, motivational speaking, and philanthropic endeavors. Her legacy as a swimming icon and ambassador for the sport endures, leaving an indelible mark on the world of swimming and beyond.

Egerszegi achieved remarkable success in the pool, winning multiple Olympic gold medals and setting numerous world records throughout her illustrious career. Renowned for her exceptional technique and versatility in both the 100 meters and 200 meters backstroke events, she dominated the international swimming scene during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Beyond her competitive achievements, Egerszegi has been an ambassador for the sport, inspiring future generations of swimmers with her dedication and passion. Her legacy as a swimming icon continues to inspire athletes around the world.

Otto made history at the 1988 Seoul Olympics by winning six gold medals, a record for a female athlete at a single Olympics. Renowned for her versatility in various strokes, she dominated the international swimming scene during the late 1980s. Otto's remarkable achievements and impact on the sport have solidified her legacy as a swimming legend and inspiration for athletes worldwide.

Meyer gained international acclaim during the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, where she made history by becoming the first swimmer to win three individual gold medals in a single Olympics. Renowned for her versatility and endurance in distance swimming events, she excelled in the 200 meters, 400 meters, and 800 meters freestyle races. Meyer's remarkable accomplishments have solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in the sport of swimming and an inspiration to athletes around the world.

Clark has garnered widespread attention for her remarkable performances as a guard for the Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball team in the NCAA Division I. Renowned for her ability to score from anywhere on the court and her playmaking skills, she has quickly established herself as one of the top players in women's college basketball. Clark's dynamic style of play and impressive statistics have earned her numerous accolades and recognition as a rising star in the sport. Her passion for the game and dedication to excellence continue to inspire fans and aspiring athletes alike.

Brink gained recognition for her dominant performances as a forward for the Stanford Cardinal women's basketball team in the NCAA Division I. Renowned for her defensive prowess, shot-blocking ability, and scoring touch, she has quickly emerged as one of the top players in women's college basketball. Brink's impact on both ends of the court, along with her leadership qualities, has earned her praise from coaches, teammates, and fans. Her talent and potential make her a player to watch in the world of basketball.

 Bueckers gained widespread attention for her remarkable performances as a guard for the UConn Huskies women's basketball team in the NCAA Division I. Renowned for her basketball IQ, playmaking skills, and scoring ability, she has quickly established herself as one of the top players in women's college basketball. Bueckers' dynamic style of play, leadership qualities, and clutch performances have earned her numerous accolades, including being named the AP National Player of the Year in her freshman season. Her passion for the game and ability to elevate her team make her a standout player in the sport and a rising star to watch.

Pili gained recognition for her dominant performances as a forward for the USC Trojans women's basketball team in the NCAA Division I. Renowned for her scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and physicality, she has quickly emerged as one of the top players in women's college basketball. Pili's impact on both ends of the court, along with her leadership qualities, has earned her praise from coaches, teammates, and fans. Her talent and determination make her a player to watch in the world of basketball.

She has garnered attention for her performances as a guard, demonstrating impressive skills and athleticism on the court. Bigby's exact background, including her current team or college commitment, may vary, so it's recommended to refer to the latest sources for the most accurate information on her basketball career.

Rising to prominence in the 1990s, she played a key role in leading the Houston Comets to four consecutive WNBA championships. Cooper's agility, scoring ability, and leadership on the court earned her multiple MVP awards and All-Star selections. She also represented the United States in international competitions, winning gold medals in the Olympics. Cynthia Cooper's legacy as a basketball icon continues to inspire athletes worldwide.

Standing at 6 feet 5 inches tall, Leslie excelled as a center and power forward, known for her scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess. Her illustrious career includes four Olympic gold medals and two WNBA championships with the Los Angeles Sparks, along with numerous individual accolades such as three WNBA MVP awards. Off the court, Leslie is an advocate for social causes and has pursued careers in broadcasting, acting, and entrepreneurship. Her impact on women's basketball and her status as a role model make her one of the most iconic figures in the sport's history.