Top 10 Athletes Who Made History in 2025
The year 2025 witnessed extraordinary performances and groundbreaking achievements by athletes across the globe. These sports icons pushed boundaries, broke records, and inspired millions with their dedication, skill, and talent. Here are the top 10 athletes who made history in 2025, starting from number 10 and counting down to the most significant achievement of the year.
10. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (Track and Field)
Sport: Track and Field
Event: World Athletics Championships
Achievement: Fraser-Pryce won gold in the 100m sprint, becoming the oldest sprinter to achieve this feat.
Why It Stands Out: Her speed and resilience in a highly competitive sport make her a true icon of athletics. Learn more about her legacy.
9. Lionel Messi (Soccer)
Sport: Soccer
Team: Inter Miami CF
Achievement: Messi led Inter Miami to their first MLS Championship title, scoring crucial goals throughout the tournament.
Why It Stands Out: At 38, Messi’s leadership, vision, and magic on the field captivated fans around the world.
8. Katie Ledecky (Swimming)
Sport: Swimming
Event: World Aquatics Championships
Achievement: Ledecky broke the world record in the 1500m freestyle, continuing her reign as the queen of long-distance swimming.
Why It Stands Out: Ledecky’s unmatched endurance and dominance in the pool showcase her legendary status.
7. Max Verstappen (Formula 1)
Sport: Formula 1
Team: Red Bull Racing
Achievement: Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive F1 World Championship, setting new records for most wins in a season.
Why It Stands Out: Verstappen’s precision and consistency on the track have cemented his place among Formula 1 legends.
6. Iga Swiatek (Tennis)
Sport: Tennis
Event: US Open
Achievement: Swiatek defended her title and became the youngest player to win five Grand Slam titles.
Why It Stands Out: Her dominance on the court and relentless consistency set her apart as the new star of tennis.
5. Patrick Mahomes (American Football)
Sport: American Football
Team: Kansas City Chiefs
Achievement: Mahomes led the Chiefs to back-to-back Super Bowl victories, earning his third Super Bowl MVP award.
Why It Stands Out: His unmatched ability to perform under pressure has made him the face of the NFL. Read about Mahomes’ achievements.
4. Naomi Osaka (Tennis)
Sport: Tennis
Event: Wimbledon
Achievement: Naomi Osaka made an inspirational comeback, winning her first-ever Wimbledon Championship.
Why It Stands Out: Osaka’s return to form after stepping back for mental health highlights her determination and strength.
3. Kylian Mbappé (Soccer)
Sport: Soccer
Team: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
Achievement: Mbappé scored the most goals in a single season in Ligue 1 history and led his team to a Champions League victory.
Why It Stands Out: His blistering speed, skill, and leadership made him a key figure in global soccer. Check out his incredible stats.
2. Simone Biles (Gymnastics)
Sport: Gymnastics
Event: World Gymnastics Championships
Achievement: Simone Biles claimed five gold medals, including breaking the record for the most career golds at the World Championships.
Why It Stands Out: Biles’ precision, power, and return to dominance after a hiatus left fans in awe of her resilience and talent.
1. LeBron James (Basketball)
Sport: Basketball
Team: Los Angeles Lakers
Achievement: LeBron James became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest basketball players in history.
Why It Stands Out: At the age of 40, LeBron’s longevity, leadership, and unparalleled skills continue to set him apart from his peers. Discover LeBron’s historic career.
Why These Athletes Made History
These athletes not only achieved personal milestones but also redefined excellence in their respective sports. Their performances inspired fans globally, proving that hard work, resilience, and passion can break barriers and set new records.