The 2010s, a decade that now feels like a blur in the rearview mirror, was a truly remarkable era for sports, etching an unforgettable chapter into the annals of athletic greatness. As the clock reset on January 1, 2010, the sporting landscape was already rich with established legends and burgeoning stars, yet few could have predicted the sheer magnitude of dominance and the breathtaking array of accomplishments that would unfold over the next ten years. It was a period where records were not just broken, but shattered, and the definition of what was possible in human performance was consistently pushed to its absolute limits.
Think back to the beginning of that decade: the Yankees were fresh off a World Series win, the Saints were on the cusp of their inaugural Super Bowl title, and Kobe Bryant was steering the Lakers to back-to-back NBA championships. Tiger Woods, with 14 major victories by the age of 34, seemed destined to eclipse Jack Nicklaus’s record. Yet, as the decade progressed, we witnessed a dynamic shift. While some stalwarts continued their reign, new phenoms emerged, redefining their sports and captivating audiences worldwide. The very essence of ‘greatness’ wasn’t just about winning; it was, as Mia’s coach Mr. Allen sagely put it, ‘about the legacy you leave behind, the inspiration you provide, and how you rise above challenges.’
Indeed, the 2010s were a testament to enduring legacies, unyielding inspiration, and incredible resilience. Many of the stars who commanded the spotlight in 2010 continued to shine, proving that true greatness transcends time. However, this past decade also introduced us to a new pantheon of athletic gods and goddesses, individuals whose careers were defined by unprecedented success, groundbreaking achievements, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. They didn’t just win; they inspired millions, leaving an indelible mark on their respective sports and the broader cultural landscape. Let’s take a closer look at the first seven athletes who, as voted by 35 members of the USA TODAY Sports staff, truly epitomized greatness in the 2010s.
1.LeBron James
Kicking off our list, and arguably the most impactful athlete of the 2010s, is none other than LeBron James. The decade coincided perfectly with James entering his absolute prime, having just celebrated his 25th birthday. What followed was a period of sustained excellence that is almost unparalleled in professional sports, cementing his place in basketball history and forever altering the conversation around the sport’s greatest players. His influence wasn’t just confined to the hardwood; it radiated far beyond.
During this incredible ten-year stretch, James was a fixture in the NBA Finals, reaching the pinnacle of the sport eight times. This astounding consistency is a testament to his leadership, skill, and sheer will to win. From these appearances, he secured three coveted NBA titles, each a hard-fought battle that showcased his ability to elevate his teams in the most critical moments. His individual brilliance was also recognized with two MVP awards, signaling his unrivaled status as the league’s top performer.
Beyond his NBA accolades, James also added an Olympic gold medal to his decorated resume in 2012, further solidifying his global impact. It’s also worth noting that no player scored more points since the start of the 2009-10 season than James, a remarkable statistic illustrating his offensive prowess and longevity. But his legend isn’t solely built on statistics and championships; his impact off the court truly elevates him beyond many of his peers, as he became a leading voice on social and political issues while furthering his philanthropic efforts.
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2. Serena Williams
Closely following James on the list, and just narrowly beat out by him in the overall voting, is the indomitable Serena Williams. Often hailed as arguably the greatest tennis player in history, regardless of gender, Williams continued to redefine the sport with her ferocious power, mental fortitude, and unmatched will to win throughout the 2010s. Her career, already legendary, reached new heights of inspiration and accomplishment during this period, particularly as she battled the natural progression of age.
Williams boasts an incredible 23 Grand Slam tournament singles titles, a record that surpasses any other man or woman in the Open Era. While not all of these majors came within the specific timeframe of the 2010s, her achievement of winning 10 of them after turning 30 is nothing short of breathtaking. This particular feat showcases a level of sustained elite performance and a defiance of conventional athletic timelines that few athletes, in any sport, can claim. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to perform under immense pressure were simply awe-inspiring.
Furthermore, Williams added Olympic golds in both singles and doubles during the decade, demonstrating her comprehensive dominance across all formats of the game. Her presence on the court was electrifying, her intensity palpable, and her legacy as a trailblazer for women in sports firmly cemented. She didn’t just play tennis; she commanded it, inspiring a generation of athletes with her power, grace, and unwavering commitment to being the very best.
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3. Tom Brady
In a sport known for its brutal physicality and short careers, Tom Brady’s longevity and consistent dominance throughout the 2010s are nothing short of miraculous. A sixth-round draft choice way back in 2000, Brady’s career has incredibly spanned two decades, and he continues to defy Father Time, still going strong at the age of 42 at the close of the decade. His ability to perform at an elite level for so long is a testament to his unparalleled preparation, mental toughness, and unwavering competitive drive.
The 2010s saw Brady add significantly to his already historic resume. He secured two NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards during this period, first in the 2010 season and again in 2017, proving that even as he matured, his impact on the game remained supreme. Perhaps most remarkably, he led the New England Patriots to an astonishing five Super Bowl appearances, a feat that speaks volumes about his consistency and the team’s sustained excellence under his leadership.
From those five Super Bowl trips, Brady guided the Patriots to three Super Bowl titles in the 2014, 2016, and 2018 seasons. Each of these championships added another layer to his legendary status, solidifying his claim as the greatest quarterback of all time. His ability to execute under pressure, orchestrate game-winning drives, and maintain an elite level of play well into his late 30s and early 40s makes him a truly unique figure in sports history, a true titan of the gridiron.
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4. Simone Biles
When we talk about rewriting the record books and shattering expectations, Simone Biles stands as a towering figure in the 2010s. Hitting the elite gymnastics scene as a prodigious 14-year-old in 2011, Biles didn’t just participate; she revolutionized the sport with her gravity-defying skills, incredible power, and unwavering confidence. Her impact was immediate and profound, setting a new standard for what is possible in gymnastics.
Just two short years after her elite debut, in 2013, Biles claimed her first world championship gold medals, dominating both the floor exercise and the all-around competitions. This was merely a preview of the greatness to come. She continued her unparalleled run, winning eight more golds at the world championships in 2014 and 2015, establishing herself as the undisputed queen of the sport. Her routines were not just technically complex; they were performances of pure artistry and athleticism.
The crescendo of her decade came at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she led Team USA to a resounding team gold. Individually, Biles was a phenomenon, securing gold medals in the floor exercise, vault, and all-around competitions, alongside a bronze in the balance beam. After taking a well-deserved break in 2017, she returned with renewed vigor, collecting an additional seven individual golds at the 2018 and 2019 world championships, cementing her legacy as perhaps the greatest gymnast of all time and a true inspirational figure.
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5. Usain Bolt
Speed, pure unadulterated speed, defined the legend of Usain Bolt in the 2010s. Already an international sensation and Olympic champion when the decade began, Bolt didn’t just maintain his status; he amplified it, becoming a global icon and the undisputed fastest man in history. His electrifying performances on the track captivated millions, turning every race into a must-watch event.
Bolt added significantly to his already glittering legacy by achieving a truly historic feat: he became the only sprinter to win gold medals in both the 100 and 200 meters in three consecutive Olympic Games – a streak that began in 2008 and continued through 2012 and 2016. This level of sustained excellence at the absolute pinnacle of his sport is a testament to his incredible talent, dedication, and competitive spirit. His ability to perform on the biggest stage, time and time again, was simply extraordinary.
Beyond the Olympics, Bolt collected an astonishing 11 gold medals at the track and field world championships between 2009 and 2015, further cementing his dominance. He remains the current world record holder in both the 100-meter and 200-meter sprints, marks that stand as a testament to his unmatched speed. His signature ‘lightning bolt’ pose became a symbol of victory and joy, making him one of the most recognizable and beloved athletes across the globe.
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6. Mike Trout
In the realm of baseball, where consistent excellence is often elusive and careers can be fleeting, Mike Trout emerged as a beacon of unparalleled skill and quiet dominance throughout the 2010s. Making his major league debut in 2011 at the tender age of 19, Trout wasted no time in establishing himself as a generational talent. His immediate impact signaled the arrival of a player who would redefine the modern outfielder.
A season after his debut, in 2012, Trout not only secured the American League Rookie of the Year award but also finished an astonishing second in the AL MVP voting, a clear indication of his immediate and profound influence on the game. He simply hasn’t slowed down since, consistently performing at an elite level year after year, earning the admiration of fans and analysts alike with his five-tool prowess and incredible consistency.
Throughout the decade, Trout earned eight All-Star selections, a testament to his sustained brilliance and popularity. He also claimed three coveted MVP awards and finished as the runner-up an impressive four times, showcasing a level of individual accomplishment that few baseball players ever achieve. While the context notes a ‘blemish’ of a lack of postseason success, it’s important to remember he’s only 28, with the prime of his career potentially still ahead, making his accomplishments in the 2010s all the more remarkable.
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7. Steph Curry
Revolutionizing the game of basketball from beyond the arc, Steph Curry’s impact on the 2010s cannot be overstated. The seventh overall pick in the 2009 NBA draft, Curry quickly established himself as one of the game’s most devastatingly accurate and prolific shooters, forever changing offensive strategies across the league. His ability to connect from virtually anywhere on the court opened up entirely new dimensions in basketball.
Curry led the NBA in 3-point field goals for an astonishing five consecutive seasons, a stretch that included a record-breaking 402 three-pointers in the 2015-16 season. This unprecedented volume and efficiency from long range reshaped how teams defended and attacked, making the Golden State Warriors, under his leadership, an offensive juggernaut. He was a perennial All-Star, earning the selection in each of the past six seasons of the decade, a testament to his consistent elite play.
His individual brilliance culminated in him being named the league’s MVP in 2015, a season where he also spearheaded the Warriors to their first NBA title in 40 years, ending a long drought for the franchise. The following year, Curry repeated as MVP as the Warriors achieved an unprecedented 73-9 regular-season record, though they ultimately lost in the NBA Finals. By the end of the decade, Curry and the Warriors had represented the Western Conference in five consecutive NBA Finals, winning three, solidifying their status as one of the greatest dynasties in modern sports.
The 2010s were a stage for unparalleled athletic genius, and while the first seven athletes on our list redefined what was possible, the stories of greatness don’t stop there. This decade was so overflowing with talent that it demands a deeper dive into another seven titans who, through their sheer will, incredible skill, and unwavering determination, carved out their own indelible legacies. These are athletes who not only excelled but dominated, leaving a mark on the record books and inspiring millions with their relentless pursuit of excellence. They solidified their status as modern legends, proving that the spirit of competition and human potential knows no bounds.
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8. Lionel Messi
In a rivalry that defined an era and captivated billions across the globe, Lionel Messi consistently edged out his closest competitor, Cristiano Ronaldo, by a hair. Messi’s decade was nothing short of spectacular, an artistic display of footballing brilliance and goal-scoring prowess that saw him collect an astonishing five of his record six Ballon d’Or awards within this ten-year span, solidifying his status as the world’s undisputed top player for much of the period. His ability to dribble through entire defenses and score from impossible angles made every match a spectacle, a true masterclass in the beautiful game.
Messi has famously spent his entire professional career with FC Barcelona, a testament to his loyalty and the club’s ability to foster his extraordinary talent. During the 2010s, he became synonymous with Barcelona’s golden age, leading them to numerous domestic and international titles. His individual brilliance was further highlighted by an unprecedented six Golden Boot awards, recognizing him as the leading scorer across Europe’s top five leagues, a feat that speaks volumes about his consistent and prolific scoring ability at the very highest level of club football.
Beyond his club heroics, Messi also carried the hopes of a nation on his shoulders. As a native of Argentina, he became his country’s all-time leading scorer with an astounding 70 goals in 138 international appearances, a staggering record for any international player. He memorably led Argentina to the 2014 World Cup final, showcasing his leadership and ability to perform on the grandest stage, even if the ultimate prize eluded him. His influence transcended mere statistics, as he became a global icon, admired for his humble demeanor and his almost magical command of the ball.
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9. Michael Phelps
While much of Michael Phelps’s Olympic mythology was cemented in the preceding decade, particularly with his unprecedented eight gold medals in Beijing, his accomplishments in the 2010s alone are more than enough to solidify his claim as the greatest swimmer in history. Phelps didn’t just continue to compete; he continued to dominate, proving that his hunger for gold was far from sated even after achieving what many considered an impossible peak. His mere presence in the pool was enough to make waves, and his races were appointment viewing.
Following his record-breaking performance in 2008, Phelps made the decision to cut back his grueling schedule for the 2012 London Olympics. Yet, even with a more focused approach, he still managed to haul in an incredible four gold medals and two silvers, demonstrating his sustained elite performance. These wins were a clear message to the world that even a ‘reduced’ Phelps was still capable of outperforming almost anyone on the global stage, showcasing his enduring talent and competitive fire.
His remarkable journey continued into the 2016 Rio Games, where he was rightfully chosen as the U.S. flag bearer, an honor reflecting his immense contribution to American Olympic history. In Rio, Phelps added another five gold medals and one silver to his already bulging trophy cabinet. His victories in the 200-meter butterfly and 200 medley were particularly significant, as they made him, at 31 years old, the oldest individual champion in Olympic swimming history. This incredible longevity and ability to defy age in a sport often dominated by younger athletes further cemented his legendary status.
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10. Novak Djokovic
The men’s tennis landscape throughout the 2010s was largely defined by a magnificent triumvirate of talent, but when it came to sheer dominance and consistency within that decade, Novak Djokovic held a significant upper hand. His relentless pursuit of perfection, combined with his incredible athleticism and mental fortitude, allowed him to construct a legacy that firmly places him among the sport’s all-time greats. Djokovic wasn’t just winning; he was dismantling opponents and rewriting the record books with an almost surgical precision.
A staggering 15 of his current 16 Grand Slam tournament titles have come since the beginning of 2011, a truly astonishing period of sustained excellence that is almost unparalleled in men’s tennis. This decade saw him claim all five of his coveted Wimbledon crowns and an incredible six of his record seven Australian Open titles, firmly establishing himself as the king of Melbourne Park. His ability to consistently peak at the majors, year after year, speaks volumes about his meticulous preparation and unwavering focus.
Djokovic’s 2015 season, in particular, stands out as one of the greatest individual seasons in tennis history. In that remarkable year, he secured three major titles and reached the final in the fourth, narrowly missing out on a calendar Grand Slam. This level of comprehensive dominance across all surfaces and against the era’s other legends underscored his physical and mental superiority. His resilience in marathon matches and his ability to convert pressure points into championships became a hallmark of his incredible decade.
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11. Katie Ledecky
In the world of swimming, where records are often fleeting, Katie Ledecky emerged as quite simply the most dominant freestyle swimmer in history, leaving an indelible mark on the 2010s with her breathtaking performances. Her power, endurance, and uncanny ability to maintain blistering paces set her apart from her competitors, turning races into a competition against the clock rather than other swimmers. Ledecky didn’t just win; she obliterated records and redefined expectations for women’s distance swimming.
Her Olympic journey began early and spectacularly. At just 15 years old, she burst onto the scene at the 2012 London Olympics, claiming her first Olympic title and setting an American record in the 800-meter freestyle by a remarkable margin of more than four seconds. This was merely a preview of the greatness to come, as she embarked on an unprecedented run, breaking world records with alarming regularity and remaining undefeated in every international final she entered between the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.
The crescendo of her decade-defining performances came at the 2016 Rio Games, where Ledecky hit even more incredible milestones. She achieved a historic treble, winning gold medals in the 200-, 400-, and 800-meter freestyle events, setting new world-record times in both the 400 and 800 that still stand as testament to her untouchable speed and stamina. All told, she has set an astounding 14 world records, truly establishing her as a once-in-a-generation athlete whose name will forever be etched in the annals of swimming history.
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12. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant’s journey through the 2010s was one of evolution and a relentless pursuit of the ultimate prize. Starting the decade with the Oklahoma City Thunder, he quickly established himself as one of the league’s most unguardable scorers, leading the NBA in points for an impressive five consecutive seasons from the 2009-10 campaign. This period also saw him guide the Thunder to the 2012 NBA Finals and earn the coveted league MVP award in the 2013-14 season, alongside securing Olympic gold medals in both 2012 and 2016.
Despite his individual brilliance and team success with Oklahoma City, the elusive NBA championship remained out of reach. That changed dramatically when Durant made the impactful decision to join the Golden State Warriors in 2016. This move, while controversial to some, proved to be a catalyst for unparalleled team success, as he helped the Warriors secure back-to-back NBA titles in 2017 and 2018, earning Finals MVP honors in both championships for his exceptional play in the sport’s biggest moments.
His tenure with the Warriors further cemented his status as a truly elite, all-around player. He consistently delivered clutch performances, elevating an already formidable team to historic heights. Even when facing adversity, as he did when leading the playoffs in scoring during the 2019 season before sustaining an injury prior to the Finals, his impact was undeniable. Durant’s decade was a testament to a player who was willing to take calculated risks to achieve his ultimate goals, forever altering the landscape of the NBA.
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13. Rafael Nadal
The clay courts of the French Open have long been Rafael Nadal’s kingdom, earning him the undisputed title of ‘The King of Clay.’ Throughout the 2010s, Nadal’s reign was absolute, as he remarkably clinched the French Open title an astonishing eight times, showcasing a level of dominance on a single surface that may never be replicated. His unique blend of power, spin, and tireless defense made him virtually unbeatable at Roland Garros, turning Paris into his personal playground.
Beyond his unparalleled success on clay, Nadal also demonstrated his versatility and greatness across all surfaces. The decade began with a monumental achievement in 2010, when he captured three of the four Grand Slam tournaments, a clear indication of his all-court prowess. He remained a consistent force, holding the distinction of being the reigning champion at both the French and U.S. Open as the decade drew to a close. His remarkable consistency was further reflected in his rankings, where he spent a total of 140 weeks ranked as world No. 1 and an additional 133 weeks at No. 2, underscoring his sustained presence at the very pinnacle of men’s tennis.
Nadal’s physical intensity and mental toughness are legendary, allowing him to endure grueling rallies and emerge victorious in the most demanding matches. His rivalry with Federer and Djokovic provided some of the most memorable contests in tennis history, pushing all three to unprecedented heights. Rafael Nadal’s decade was a masterclass in relentless competition, embodying the spirit of a warrior who simply refused to yield, solidifying his place as one of the most beloved and dominant athletes in any sport.
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14. Cristiano Ronaldo
In the electrifying narrative of 2010s football, Cristiano Ronaldo stood as a towering figure, whose relentless drive for individual and team glory made him a global phenomenon. His move to Real Madrid just before the turn of the decade ushered in an era of unparalleled scoring and success, setting the stage for a period where he consistently outperformed most of his peers. Ronaldo’s unwavering commitment to being the best translated into a staggering output, scoring 40 or more goals in three seasons, a remarkable testament to his offensive capabilities.
His individual accolades were as numerous as his goals. Ronaldo earned back-to-back Ballon d’Or awards in 2013 and 2014, a feat he repeated in 2016 and 2017, firmly establishing his place among the elite. His leadership extended beyond club football, as he was named the top forward when he guided Portugal to their historic victory at UEFA Euro 2016, a crowning achievement for his international career. He thrived under pressure, always delivering in the most crucial moments, whether it was a stunning free-kick or a game-winning header.
Even as the decade neared its end, Ronaldo continued to seek new challenges, transferring to Italian giants Juventus in 2018. True to form, he immediately made an impact, leading his new team to a first-place finish in his inaugural season. His incredible goal-scoring consistency, combined with his relentless pursuit of fitness and excellence, cemented his status not just as a prodigious talent, but as a brand and an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide. The fierce, yet respectful, rivalry with Lionel Messi pushed both players to reach levels of performance that may never be seen again.
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As we look back at the 2010s, it becomes clear that this wasn’t just a decade of individual brilliance, but a testament to the power of human dedication, perseverance, and the unyielding will to be the greatest. From the court to the track, the pool to the pitch, these 14 athletes didn’t just play their sports; they owned them, creating unforgettable moments and leaving an imprint that will resonate for generations. Their stories are a vivid reminder that true greatness is measured not only by trophies and records, but by the inspiration they ignite, the boundaries they shatter, and the indelible legacy they carve into the very fabric of sporting history. They showed us that the journey to the top is arduous, but the view from the summit is truly breathtaking.
