In a move that has sparked fierce debate across the sports world, a major sports media outlet has released its definitive list of the 100 best professional athletes of the 21st century. While many of the names featured on the list were expected, it’s the order — particularly the No. 1 selection — that has ignited controversy among fans, analysts, and even athletes themselves.
The list includes stars from a wide variety of sports: football, basketball, tennis, athletics, swimming, mixed martial arts, golf, and more. Legends like Serena Williams, LeBron James, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Tom Brady, Michael Phelps, and Usain Bolt all earned high placements for their game-changing impacts, longevity, and record-shattering achievements. Each athlete was evaluated based on dominance in their sport, consistency, influence, and legacy.
However, what really grabbed headlines was the surprise pick for the top spot. While many assumed Usain Bolt, often considered the most dominant sprinter of all time, or Serena Williams, the most decorated female tennis player of her generation, would claim the No. 1 ranking, the panel instead awarded that honor to none other than Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis star who has broken nearly every record in men’s tennis over the past two decades.
Djokovic, who has surpassed both Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer in Grand Slam titles, has undoubtedly etched his name in history. His consistency, mental toughness, and ability to dominate on all surfaces have been praised. However, critics argue that tennis — while global — doesn’t carry the same universal appeal or cultural impact as sports like soccer or basketball. This has led many to question whether Djokovic truly deserves the top honor over athletes with broader influence, such as LeBron James or Lionel Messi.
Supporters of Djokovic’s No. 1 ranking point to his head-to-head dominance against his two legendary rivals and his unprecedented number of weeks as world No. 1. Others say that while his on-court achievements are nearly unmatched, his polarizing personality and past controversies make him a questionable face for 21st-century athletic excellence.
Other surprising entries included Simone Biles in the top 10 — recognized for redefining gymnastics — and the inclusion of Canelo Álvarez, a boxing powerhouse whose influence and skill have carried the sport in recent years. Meanwhile, athletes like Tiger Woods and Roger Federer, whose primes were partially in the 2000s, landed just outside the top five, largely due to injuries or a shortened window of dominance.
Still, the list’s diversity has earned praise. Female athletes were well-represented, with names like Serena Williams, Biles, Megan Rapinoe, and Katie Ledecky receiving deserved recognition. African athletes such as Eliud Kipchoge and Haile Gebrselassie also made appearances for their groundbreaking feats in long-distance running.
In the end, any ranking of this nature is bound to be subjective and stir passionate reactions. What’s clear is that the 21st century has been blessed with a wealth of generational talent across sports. Whether you agree with Djokovic at No. 1 or believe another icon deserves the crown, the list serves as a reminder of just how many remarkable athletes have defined thi
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