Respect in sports is never handed out easily. It is built slowly through discipline, honesty, consistency, and behavior under pressure. While many athletes achieve fame, titles, and wealth, only a rare group earn long-term admiration from fans, teammates, opponents, and even critics. These individuals are remembered not just for what they won, but for how they carried themselves throughout their careers.
The most respected athletes share several qualities. They show professionalism in both victory and defeat. They lead by example rather than words. They respect the game, their rivals, and the fans who support them. Most importantly, they leave behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations.
Table of Contents
List of 10 Most Respected Athletes of All Time
10. Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant earned respect through one of the strongest work ethics ever seen in professional sports. Known globally as the “Black Mamba,” Kobe believed in constant improvement and mental toughness. He pushed himself harder than most players and demanded the same level of commitment from his teammates.
Throughout his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, Kobe showed loyalty, competitiveness, and leadership. Even opponents admired his preparation and focus. After retirement, he continued inspiring young athletes through mentoring, storytelling, and coaching. His mindset made him one of the most respected athletes in basketball history.
| Years Active | 1996–2016 |
| Team | Los Angeles Lakers |
| Games Played | 1,346 |
| Points Per Game | 25.0 |
| Assists Per Game | 4.7 |
| NBA Championships | 5 |
9. Serena Williams
Serena Williams is widely regarded as one of the bg678 greatest tennis players ever. Her powerful game, mental strength, and competitive attitude allowed her to dominate women’s tennis for over two decades. Winning 23 Grand Slam singles titles, she set a benchmark few may ever reach.
Beyond trophies, Serena earned global respect by breaking barriers in sport. She stood strong against criticism, fought for equality, and inspired millions of young athletes. Her influence extended far beyond tennis, making her one of the most respected athletes in modern sports history.
| Years Active | 1995–2022 |
| Tournaments Played | 101 |
| Titles Won | 73 |
| Grand Slam Singles Titles | 23 |
| Olympic Medals | 4 |
8. Babe Ruth
Babe Ruth played a key role in transforming baseball into a global spectacle. Known as the “Sultan of Swat,” his power hitting brought excitement and attention to the sport during its early years. His performances redefined what fans expected from a baseball player.
Despite playing in a different era, Ruth’s legacy still commands respect today. His records stood for decades, and his influence helped baseball grow internationally. His contribution to the sport places him among the most respected athletes in American sports history.
| Years Active | 1914–1935 |
| Teams | Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees |
| Games Played | 2,503 |
| Home Runs | 714 |
| Batting Average | .342 |
| RBIs | 2,214 |
7. Wayne Gretzky
Wayne Gretzky is widely considered the greatest ice hockey player of all time. His vision, creativity, and understanding of the game allowed him to dominate without relying on physical strength alone. Many of his records remain untouched.
What truly earned Gretzky respect was his humility. Despite his unmatched success, he always focused on teamwork and showed respect toward opponents. His influence helped grow ice hockey’s popularity, making him one of the most respected athletes across all sports.
| Years Active | 1979–1999 |
| Games Played | 1,487 |
| Goals | 894 |
| Assists | 1,963 |
| Total Points | 2,857 |
| Stanley Cups | 4 |
6. Pelé
Pelé became a football legend at an incredibly young age. His skill, creativity, and goal-scoring ability made him a worldwide superstar. To this day, he remains the only player to win three FIFA World Cups.
Pelé earned respect not only for his talent but also for his sportsmanship and humility. He played a major role in spreading football across continents and used his fame to promote peace. His legacy secures his place among the most respected athletes in football history.
| Years Active | 1956–1977 |
| Clubs | Santos, New York Cosmos |
| Appearances | 1,363 |
| Goals Scored | 1,281 |
| World Cups Won | 3 |
5. Tom Brady
Tom Brady’s career is a powerful example of discipline and preparation. Playing at the highest level for over two decades, he proved that success comes from dedication and mental strength. His leadership guided multiple teams to championships.
Brady earned respect for his calm mindset and ability to perform under pressure. Even rivals admired his professionalism. His career made him one of the most respected athletes not only in American football but across global sports.
| Years Active | 2000–2022 |
| Games Played | 318 |
| Passing Yards | 89,214 |
| Touchdowns | 649 |
| Super Bowl Wins | 7 |
4. Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is admired worldwide for his incredible talent and humble personality. His dribbling, vision, and consistency have made him one of football’s greatest players. Unlike many superstars, Messi lets his performances speak louder than words.
His respect for the game, teammates, and fans has earned him admiration everywhere he plays. Messi’s calm leadership style places him firmly among the most respected athletes of his generation.
| Years Active | 2004–Present |
| Appearances | 889 |
| Goals | 702 |
| Assists | 305 |
| Ballon d’Or Wins | 8 |
3. Roger Federer
Roger Federer is known for his graceful playing style and respectful behavior. He dominated tennis for years, winning 20 Grand Slam titles while maintaining professionalism throughout his career.
Federer treated rivals with dignity and always represented tennis positively. His conduct set new standards for sportsmanship, making him one of the most respected athletes tennis has ever seen.
| Years Active | 1998–2022 |
| Titles Won | 103 |
| Grand Slam Titles | 20 |
| Olympic Medals | 2 |
2. Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali was respected far beyond boxing. Inside the ring, he was fast, smart, and fearless. Outside the ring, he stood firm for his beliefs, even when it cost him his career.
Ali’s courage, confidence, and willingness to speak for justice earned worldwide admiration. His influence made him one of the most respected athletes of all time.
| Years Active | 1960–1981 |
| Total Fights | 61 |
| Wins | 56 |
| Knockouts | 37 |
| World Titles | 3 |
1. Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan stands at the top as the most respected athlete in history. His competitiveness, leadership, and unmatched desire to win redefined basketball. Jordan delivered in the biggest moments and inspired millions worldwide.
He set new standards for greatness and professionalism. His legacy continues to influence athletes across all sports, firmly establishing him as the greatest among the most respected athletes of all time.
| Years Active | 1984–2003 |
| Games Played | 1,072 |
| Points Per Game | 30.1 |
| Assists Per Game | 5.3 |
| NBA Championships | 6 |
FAQs
1. Who are considered the most respected athletes of all time?
The most respected athletes are those who not only achieve greatness in their sport but also show discipline, leadership, humility, and professionalism. Examples include Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, Pelé, Muhammad Ali, and Lionel Messi.
2. What qualities make an athlete highly respected?
Key qualities include consistent performance, fair play, teamwork, humility, mental toughness, and the ability to inspire others. The most respected athletes also use their influence to bring positive change to society.
3. Why is Michael Jordan considered the most respected athlete?
Michael Jordan earned respect through his competitiveness, leadership, and work ethic. He consistently performed at the highest level and inspired millions worldwide, setting a standard for excellence that few athletes match.
4. Can athletes outside team sports be among the most respected athletes?
Yes. Individual sport athletes like Serena Williams, Roger Federer, and Muhammad Ali are among the most respected athletes because of their discipline, influence, and professionalism, showing that respect comes from character as much as achievements.