21 Female Athletes Who Changed Sports: The Trailblazers Who Redefined the Game

Throughout history and across various sports, there have been exceptional female athletes who defied norms, shattered stereotypes, and paved the way for future generations. These fearless women transcended gender barriers, showcased their unmatched talents, and left an indelible mark on the world of sports. Let's celebrate the remarkable journeys and achievements of 21 female athletes who changed the landscape forever.

1. Babe Didrikson Zaharias

Before the rise of women's professional sports, Babe Didrikson Zaharias emerged as a multi-sport sensation during the 1930s. Nicknamed the "Wonder Woman," she excelled in golf, basketball, and track and field. Zaharias defied norms by winning tournaments against male competitors. Her unparalleled athleticism and undeniable strength opened doors for future female athletes.

Not Playing by the Rules: 21 Female Athletes Who Changed Sports

by Lesa Cline-Ransome (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	44630 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

2. Billie Jean King

Billie Jean King fought for gender equality both on and off the tennis court. As a legendary professional tennis player, she secured numerous grand slam titles, but her impact extended beyond her trophies. King famously defeated Bobby Riggs in the "Battle of the Sexes" exhibition match, highlighting the skill and resilience of female athletes and sparking conversations about gender equality around the globe.

3. Wilma Rudolph

Wilma Rudolph overcame tremendous adversity to become an Olympic icon. Despite battling childhood illnesses and a polio diagnosis, she won three gold medals in track and field at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Rudolph's triumphs inspired generations of aspiring athletes, proving that determination and resilience can lead to extraordinary success.

4. Mia Hamm

Mia Hamm revolutionized women's soccer and became one of the most recognized names in the sport. With exceptional skills, strategic play, and a tremendous work ethic, she helped propel the United States Women's National Team to victory multiple times. Hamm's impact goes beyond her playing career; she remains an influential figure who fought for equal opportunities and support for female soccer players.

5. Serena Williams

Serena Williams is the epitome of tennis greatness. Her unrivaled power, unmatched skills, and unwavering determination have led her to numerous Grand Slam victories. Facing adversity both on and off the court, Williams has shattered glass ceilings and continues to inspire future generations of athletes.

6. Nadia Comaneci

Nadia Comaneci made history as the first gymnast to achieve a perfect score of 10 at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. Her flawless routines revolutionized the sport and took gymnastics to new heights. Comaneci's outstanding achievements paved the way for generations of gymnasts who aspire to greatness.

7. Ronda Rousey

Ronda Rousey made an immense impact on the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). As the first female UFC champion, she shattered gender barriers and showcased her immense talent and fighting skills. Rousey's fearlessness and determination inspired many young girls to pursue MMA and believe in their abilities in a historically male-dominated sport.

8. Florence Griffith Joyner

Florence Griffith Joyner, known as Flo-Jo, left an enduring legacy in the world of track and field. With her flamboyant style and unmatched speed, she set world records and won several Olympic gold medals. Griffith Joyner's remarkable achievements made her an icon in women's sports and inspired countless athletes worldwide.

9. Marta Vieira da Silva

Marta Vieira da Silva, simply known as Marta, is a legendary figure in women's soccer. The Brazilian forward has won numerous FIFA World Player of the Year awards and holds countless records. Marta's incomparable skill and unrivaled passion for the game brought well-deserved recognition to women's soccer on a global stage.

10. Danica Patrick

Danica Patrick broke long-standing barriers as a prominent NASCAR driver. She shattered the notion that racing was solely a male-dominated sport and paved the way for future female drivers. Patrick's incredible career highlighted the importance of representation and gave aspiring female racers the confidence to follow their dreams.

11. Simone Biles

Simone Biles has redefined the sport of gymnastics with her unmatched abilities and groundbreaking routines. With her incredible athleticism and unwavering perseverance, Biles has achieved unparalleled success, earning multiple gold medals at the Olympic Games. She continues to inspire young gymnasts worldwide to push their boundaries and strive for greatness.

12. Martina Navratilova

Martina Navratilova is considered one of the greatest female tennis players of all time. With her exceptional skills and unmatched versatility, she dominated the tennis circuit for decades. Navratilova's activism off the court, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, solidified her status as an influential trailblazer.

13. Wilt Chamberlain

Wilt Chamberlain was not only one of the greatest basketball players of all time but also a significant advocate for women's basketball. He recognized the talent and potential of female athletes long before it was widely acknowledged. Chamberlain's support resulted in increased exposure and opportunities for women in basketball.

14. Cheryl Miller

Cheryl Miller is regarded as one of the most dominant players in women's college basketball history. Her skills, passion, and determination elevated the sport's popularity and set the standard for future generations. Miller's impact extended to coaching, where she continued to inspire and mold young athletes.

15. Martina Hingis

Martina Hingis made waves in the tennis world as one of the youngest-ever Grand Slam champions. Her remarkable achievements at such a young age inspired countless aspiring female tennis players. Hingis's exceptional skills and strategic play cemented her legacy as an influential figure in women's tennis.

16. Lisa Leslie

Lisa Leslie played a pivotal role in establishing women's basketball within the sporting world. As an outstanding athlete and versatile player, she achieved remarkable success at both the collegiate and professional levels. Leslie's contributions expanded the reach and popularity of women's basketball, opening doors for future generations.

17. Chris Evert

Chris Evert dominated the tennis world during the 1970s and 1980s and left an enduring mark on the sport. With her impeccable technique and mental fortitude, she secured numerous Grand Slam titles. Evert's fierce competitive spirit and remarkable consistency inspired countless young tennis players to chase their dreams.

18. Jackie Joyner-Kersee

Jackie Joyner-Kersee remains one of the most accomplished athletes in the history of track and field. Her exceptional versatility and unwavering determination led her to multiple Olympic gold medals. Joyner-Kersee's incredible performances and charitable efforts continue to inspire female athletes to reach for greatness.

19. Michelle Wie

Michelle Wie burst onto the golf scene as a prodigy and defied expectations throughout her career. She embarked on her professional journey at an early age, competing against male golfers on numerous occasions. Wie's tenacity and groundbreaking achievements have encouraged young female golfers to believe in their abilities and strive for excellence.

20. Bonnie Blair

Bonnie Blair dominated the world of speed skating, winning multiple Olympic gold medals. Her relentless work ethic and unparalleled focus led her to become one of the most successful athletes in the history of the sport. Blair's achievements continue to inspire young speed skaters to pursue their dreams fearlessly.

21. Carli Lloyd

Carli Lloyd's impact on women's soccer cannot be overstated. With her remarkable skillset, she played a pivotal role in the United States Women's National Team's success, winning multiple FIFA World Cups. Lloyd's incredible performances and leadership have solidified her status as an iconic figure within the sport.

These 21 female athletes have defied odds, shattered barriers, and changed sports forever. Through their exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and trailblazing spirits, they have inspired generations to challenge norms and strive for greatness. As we celebrate their remarkable achievements, let's continue to support and uplift female athletes, ensuring that their legacy lives on and flourishes for years to come.

Not Playing by the Rules: 21 Female Athletes Who Changed Sports

by Lesa Cline-Ransome (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	44630 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

This powerful and inspiring collection features 21 female trailblazers in their sport, perfect for fans of Women in Sports and Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls!

Before girls wore pants or women were permitted to swim in bathing suits at public beaches, who paved the way for women in sports? And who's breaking new ground today?

This anthology introduces 21 trailblazing women who have broken through the boundaries set for female athletes. From basketball slam-dunker Lisa Leslie to tennis superstars Venus and Serena Williams, whose father had onlookers jeer at and taunt the girls as they practiced, to Paralympian Tatyana McFadden, who was a speed demon even at her Russian orphanage before she was adopted, to Olympic gold medalist Ethelda Bleibtrey, who was led off to jail when she shed her shoes and stockings to swim in public, Not Playing by the Rules inspires, informs, and illustrates the strength, determination, and accomplishments of women athletes both yesterday and today.

With powerful photographs and hand-lettered, inspirational quotes from the athletes themselves, this is a collection every young girl should own.

The featured athletes include Ethelda Bleibtrey, Bobbi Gibb, Althea Gibson, Gabby Douglas, Flo Hyman, Lisa Leslie, Mia Hamm, Tatyana McFadden, Mo'ne Davis, Ibtihaj Muhammad, Diana Golden, Constance Applebee, Lizzie Arlington, Babe Didrikson, Alice Coachman, Joy Johnson, Nancy Lieberman, Nadia Comăneci, Venus and Serena Williams, and Yusra Mardini.