Lionel Messi, Michael Jordan, Roger Federer

The 15 most respected athletes of all time

March 5, 2026 Aksel Kryhlmand

True respect in sports is hard-earned and rarely universal. But these 15 athletes managed to rise above rivalries, controversies, and competition to earn admiration from teammates, opponents, and fans around the world.

Note: List is in no specific order.

15. Jerry Rice: raising the bar in the NFL

Jerry Rice set a standard in American football that few have even come close to matching. With a Hall of Fame career and a reputation for elite discipline and performance, he remains one of the most admired figures in the sport.

14. Amanda Nunes: trailblazer in MMA

Amanda Nunes dominated women’s MMA like no one before her, becoming the UFC’s first female double champion. Her skill, composure, and legacy have earned her deep respect from both fans and fellow fighters.

13. Usain Bolt: speed with style

Usain Bolt brought electrifying energy to the world of athletics, breaking records with ease and charisma. His dominance on the track and joyful personality made him a beloved and respected global icon.

12. Tony Hawk: from vert ramps to video games

Tony_Hawk_-_Japan_(53347609606) — Christopher Michel from San Francisco, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Tony Hawk elevated skateboarding to international fame through his talent and character. Universally respected in and outside the sport, he became a symbol of authenticity and influence for generations.

11. Georges St-Pierre: martial arts with class

Georges St-Pierre earned his place in UFC history through skill, strategy, and respectful competition. Known for redeeming every loss in his career, he remains a symbol of professionalism in combat sports.

10. Kobe Bryant: the Mamba mentality lives on

Kobe_Bryant_2014 — Keith Allison, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Kobe Bryant’s dedication to excellence made him a legend in basketball. His intense focus and influence on players around the world solidified his status as one of the game’s most respected figures.

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9. Serena Williams: redefining greatness in women’s sport

Serena Williams changed the face of tennis through dominance and determination. Her achievements and advocacy have earned her respect not just in sport, but as a cultural and global icon.

8. Babe Ruth: baseball’s timeless legend

Babe Ruth's name still carries weight more than a century after he played. As a foundational figure in baseball, his influence and legendary status continue to inspire respect from every generation of fans.

7. Wayne Gretzky: the great one

Wayne Gretzky is known far beyond the ice rink thanks to a record-breaking career that redefined hockey. Universally admired for both his talent and humility, he remains the sport’s most respected figure.

6. Pele: the global football icon

Pele never played in Europe, yet became one of the most beloved footballers in history. His impact on the sport, highlighted by three World Cup titles, makes him a true global ambassador of the game.

5. Tom Brady: the NFL’s gold standard

Tom Brady’s seven Super Bowl titles and unmatched consistency redefined greatness in the NFL. His leadership and commitment to excellence earned him respect from athletes across all sports.

4. Lionel Messi: football’s most admired figure

Lionel Messi's brilliance has transcended club rivalries and national borders. Even his fiercest critics acknowledge the respect he’s earned through his humility, consistency, and countless achievements.

3. Roger Federer: the gentleman of tennis

Roger Federer is admired not only for his graceful playing style but for his class and sportsmanship. His legacy remains untouched in terms of the respect he commands across the tennis world.

2. Muhammad Ali: the people's champion

Muhammad Ali’s influence reached far beyond boxing. Bold, unapologetic, and revolutionary, he remains one of the most respected figures in sports and cultural history.

1. Michael Jordan: a legacy above all

Michael Jordan continues to be the most respected athlete of all time. His dominance on the court and lasting impact on sport and culture have made him a timeless icon of excellence and determination.