In the ever-evolving landscape of modern sports, athletes are more than just competitors; they are titans of influence, cultural touchstones, and undeniable power brokers. Their performances on the field, court, or track captivate millions, but their impact extends far beyond the game itself, shaping conversations, driving trends, and even influencing economic markets on a global scale.
This profound influence means that every move, every statement, and every decision made by these high-profile figures carries immense weight. They control their own narratives, as one prominent athlete suggests, defining their legacies and leveraging their platforms in ways that resonate deeply with fans and stakeholders alike. It’s a world where individual prowess translates into significant societal sway, demanding recognition and analysis.
Join us as we dive into the stories of some of the most compelling and influential athletes of today. Drawing from Sports Illustrated’s 2025 Power List, we’ll explore the unique ways these individuals are leaving an indelible mark on their sports and the broader cultural sphere, showcasing the sheer breadth of their talent and the remarkable reach of their impact.
1. **Jayden Daniels: The Architect of His Own Narrative**Jayden Daniels is doing more than just playing football; he’s redefining what it means to wield personal power in the NFL. Making football fun again in D.C. is only the beginning of his influence. As he steps into his second NFL season, Daniels offers a remarkably thoughtful and ambitious concept of power: the ability to control one’s own narrative and truly tell their story.
This isn’t just a philosophy; it’s a strategic approach to his career. In a move that truly exemplifies his personal power, Daniels made the bold decision to involve his mother as an instrumental part of his professional process. Regina Jackson is not only his mom, but also an NFLPA-certified agent, co-representing Daniels alongside Ron Butler of Agency 1 Sports.
Regina Jackson’s influence extends further, as she is also the cofounder of Athletes In Control, a collective that guides athletes through the complex world of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) and its professional football implications. This collective currently boasts 10 clients who have sought their expertise. It’s a clear demonstration of Daniels’s commitment to self-determination and the protection of his personal narrative.
Having his mother, who understands him better than anyone else, helping to protect his narrative is a brilliant strategic play. It underscores a growing trend among athletes to take greater ownership of their careers and public image, setting a powerful precedent for how future generations might navigate the professional sports landscape. Daniels is truly playing the long game, both on and off the field.
2. **Aitana Bonmatí: The Undisputed Queen of Women’s Soccer**Aitana Bonmatí stands as an undeniable force, simply the best player in women’s soccer right now. Her command of the midfield and her unparalleled skill on the pitch have cemented her status as a global icon, dictating the pace and direction of play with an almost effortless grace. Her presence alone elevates any team she plays for, making her a truly transformative figure.
Even in moments of adversity, Bonmatí’s brilliance shines through. Despite Spain’s ultimate fall to England in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final, her individual performance throughout the tournament was nothing short of remarkable. She delivered an artful game-winner in the semifinals against Germany, a testament to her clutch performance, weeks after being hospitalized with viral meningitis.
Her ability to return from a significant health setback and still perform at such an elite level speaks volumes about her resilience and dedication. This kind of fortitude, coupled with her extraordinary talent, inspires millions of fans and aspiring athletes worldwide, demonstrating that true greatness is often forged in the crucible of challenge and perseverance.
Bonmatí’s continued dominance ensures that she remains at the forefront of the sport, pushing boundaries and setting new standards. Her influence transcends mere statistics; it’s about elevating the game itself and inspiring a new generation of female athletes to chase their dreams with passion and skill. She is not just a player; she is a movement.
3. **Lamine Yamal: Barcelona’s Teenage Phenom**Lamine Yamal is not just a rising star; he’s a phenomenon who has taken the football world by storm since his debut for Barcelona at an astonishing 15 years old. His meteoric rise has captivated audiences, immediately establishing him as a player to watch and a potential legend in the making. Such an early impact is rare, even in the highly competitive world of professional soccer.
Now 18, Yamal has already firmly established himself as one of the world’s most feared footballers. He combines a unique blend of youthful exuberance with an innate maturity that belies his age. This blend allows him to execute audacious flicks, dizzying dribbles, and signature swats at goal that confound opponents and thrill spectators alike.
What truly sets Yamal apart, beyond his flashy moves, is his staggering ability to choose the right weapon to torment his opponents. He possesses a tactical intelligence that allows him to consistently make the optimal decision on the field, a trait usually found in seasoned veterans. This discerning approach to his game makes him incredibly unpredictable and incredibly effective.
The upcoming year could prove to be a seismic one for Yamal and his national team. As reigning European champions, Spain enters the 2026 World Cup as one of the favorites, and Yamal’s measured maverick quality is anticipated to be a trump card that few nations can counter. His burgeoning influence on the international stage underscores his trajectory toward becoming a global footballing superstar.
4. **Mohamed Salah: The Egyptian King’s Global Reach**Mohamed Salah continues to be a driving force in club football, serving as the steady metronome behind Liverpool’s triumphant march to the 2024–25 Premier League title. Recognized as the division’s most prolific lefty of all time, Salah’s consistent goal-scoring prowess and creative play have been instrumental in his team’s success, solidifying his status as a Premier League legend.
Salah’s influence, however, extends far beyond the confines of the football pitch. He is truly a man of rare reach, particularly in the digital realm. With an astounding 65.8 million followers on Instagram, the Egypt native holds the distinction of being the most followed soccer player from Africa, showcasing his massive global appeal and cultural significance.
His immense social media presence allows him to connect directly with a vast international audience, making him a powerful influencer and a role model for millions. This digital footprint amplifies his impact, turning his on-field achievements into global conversations and fostering a deep connection with fans across diverse cultures and continents.
Salah’s consistent high-level performance and incredible online engagement combine to make him one of the most powerful and recognizable figures in sports. He embodies the modern athlete who excels in their sport while simultaneously leveraging their platform to build a brand and inspire change, proving that a player’s impact can be felt far beyond the final whistle.
5. **Jeremiah Smith: College Football’s Seven-Figure Sensation**When discussing the best player in college football, virtually any scout will immediately mention Jeremiah Smith. This Buckeye sensation has not only set the collegiate world ablaze with his talent but has also become a poster child for the evolving landscape of athlete earning opportunities. His impact is undeniable, even at such an early stage of his career.
Smith showcased his extraordinary capabilities last season with Ohio State, setting freshman FBS records for receiving yards with an astonishing 1,315 and scoring 15 touchdowns, including a crucial one against Notre Dame in the national championship game. These incredible statistics led national champion Ohio State to glory, highlighting his pivotal role in their success.
Despite his eligibility for the NFL draft being set for 2027, Smith possessed the talent to challenge the league’s draft rules after his sensational freshman season. Yet, he opted not to, demonstrating a clear strategic vision for his career path that prioritizes immediate opportunities and long-term development.
What truly makes Smith a revolutionary figure in college sports is his financial prowess. With the lucrative earning opportunities currently available to him, there’s simply no rush to go pro. Smith commands seven figures in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, boasting endorsements from major brands like Adidas, Nintendo, and Red Bull.
As a sophomore who will turn 20 on November 29th, Smith is poised for at least two more seasons to further demonstrate just how enriching today’s college experience can be for elite athletes. His journey exemplifies the unprecedented financial power now accessible to top collegiate stars, marking a significant shift in the economic dynamics of amateur athletics.
6. **Arch Manning: The Legacy That Grips College Football**”Arch Mania” has been a palpable force gripping college football long before Arch Manning had even thrown a significant number of passes. Despite having only 95 career passes coming into this season, the latest scion of the legendary Manning family arrived on the Forty Acres with an unparalleled level of anticipation and scrutiny. His name alone carries a weight that few others can match.
Even as the young quarterback expresses a desire to deflect attention due to his famous last name, he remains undeniably one of the sport’s biggest draws this fall. Fans and media alike are captivated by his every move, eager to witness the next chapter of a storied football dynasty unfold right before their eyes. This level of interest, before significant on-field performance, is truly remarkable.
The power of his legacy creates an immense gravitational pull, making him a central figure in college football discussions. His presence guarantees headlines, boosts viewership, and sells merchandise, transforming every game he might play into a national event. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of football royalty and the narrative power of a storied family name.
Arch Manning’s unique situation highlights how influence in sports isn’t solely derived from statistics or championship rings. Sometimes, the sheer weight of expectation and the allure of a legendary surname are enough to propel an athlete into the spotlight, making him an influential figure purely through the anticipation of his future greatness. His journey is a compelling study in the power of a name.
7. **Shohei Ohtani: MLB’s Unprecedented Market Maker**Shohei Ohtani continues to rewrite the record books, recently adding another monumental milestone to his already illustrious career: becoming the first MLB player to hit 50 home runs and strike out 50 batters in the same season. This unparalleled dual-threat ability as both an elite pitcher and a prodigious hitter solidifies his status as a truly once-in-a-generation talent and a three-time MVP.
His arrival with the Dodgers in 2024, his first year with the club, immediately translated into significant financial gains for the franchise. Research firm SponsorUnited reported that the Dodgers added an astounding $70 million in sponsorship revenue specifically due to Ohtani’s presence. This figure alone speaks volumes about his incredible marketability and the commercial impact he brings.
Beyond just his own team, Ohtani’s drawing power extends across the league. SponsorUnited also noted that he generated an additional $15 million from Japanese advertising at his road games, a testament to his immense international appeal. Every game he plays becomes a must-see event, not just for baseball fans, but for global advertisers seeking to connect with his vast fanbase.
Ohtani’s influence goes beyond revenue; it’s about shifting the narrative of the sport itself. He has revitalized interest in baseball with his extraordinary feats, attracting new fans and demonstrating the sheer entertainment value of his unique skill set. He embodies the pinnacle of athletic excellence combined with unmatched commercial draw, making him a central figure in sports economics.
His long-term $700 million deal with the Dodgers wasn’t just a record-breaking contract; it was an investment in a global phenomenon. Ohtani’s ability to generate such significant sponsorship revenue and capture worldwide attention underscores his singular power as a sports icon, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in baseball history and beyond.
Welcome back, sports fans! We’ve already taken a deep dive into the colossal influence of some of the biggest names gracing Sports Illustrated’s 2025 Power List. From redefining player agency to shattering records on a global stage, these athletes are shaping the very fabric of sports and culture. But the power parade is far from over! Get ready as we unleash seven more titans who are not just playing the game, but owning it, captivating audiences, and carving out legacies that will echo for generations to come.
8. **Kayla Harrison: The Crossover Queen of Combat Sports**There’s a welter of combat sports stars who failed to transition over and make it big in the UFC, but Kayla Harrison is in a league of her own. After dominating the judo mats and clinching Olympic gold in both 2012 and 2016, Harrison has flawlessly pivoted her unparalleled skill set into the brutal and beautiful world of mixed martial arts. Now, at 35, she stands tall among the brightest stars in the UFC cosmos, showcasing a rare and exceptional ability to adapt and conquer.
Her journey from Olympic judo champion to a prominent UFC fighter is a testament to her relentless dedication and extraordinary athletic prowess. This isn’t just a simple career change; it’s a monumental achievement that few can claim. Her powerful grappling and formidable presence have made her a force to be reckoned with, earning her a loyal fanbase and the respect of her peers.
The anticipation surrounding Harrison is reaching a fever pitch, especially with the potential for a monumental showdown. If the bantamweight champ’s callout of the heretofore GOAT Amanda Nunes is accepted, it could very well make for the biggest female megafight in UFC history. This isn’t just about a belt; it’s about a generational clash that would captivate the entire combat sports world and beyond.
Harrison’s ability to consistently perform at the highest level across different disciplines solidifies her status as a truly powerful athlete. She’s not just a competitor; she’s a trailblazer, demonstrating the immense potential for multi-sport athletes to find new avenues for greatness and continue to redefine what’s possible in the arena of combat.
9. **Cooper Flagg: The Next Big Thing in Hoops**When people talk about the next face of basketball, one name rises above the hype: Cooper Flagg. If anyone can live up to the monumental expectations of being the top hoops prodigy since none other than LeBron James, it is Flagg. This young phenom possesses a unique combination of exceptional on-court talent and a remarkably calm demeanor, a rare blend that suggests he’s destined for superstardom.
His trajectory is already set to be historic. Flagg is widely regarded as the NBA’s undisputed No. 1 draft pick in 2025, a distinction that speaks volumes about his generational talent. Scouts and analysts alike laud his all-around game, from his defensive tenacity to his offensive versatility, all executed with a maturity that belies his age. He truly has the game to make it work at the highest level.
Beyond his incredible skills, Flagg is also strategically positioned to become a major marketable figure. The Mavericks rookie is already set to become the new face of New Balance’s basketball line, a significant endorsement that highlights his commercial appeal. This kind of brand partnership, before even playing an official NBA game, underscores his unique power and influence.
Flagg isn’t just a promising prospect; he’s a phenomenon ready to reshape the league’s narrative. His emergence heralds a new era, and with his game and calm composure, he’s poised to become a cultural icon, proving that sometimes, the hype is absolutely real. Get ready for the Cooper Flagg era to begin.
10. **Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The Thunder’s Ascendant MVP**Much like the dynamic NBA championship team for which he stars, the Oklahoma City Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s story in recent years has been one of steady ascension. From a late lottery pick by the Clippers in 2018, he transitioned to Oklahoma City in 2019 as part of the blockbuster Paul George trade, a move that would ultimately unlock his true potential and set him on a path to greatness.
With the Thunder, SGA didn’t just grow; he blossomed into an undisputed superstar. He evolved from being the top scorer on a rebuilding team to an MVP, not just of the league, but of the NBA Finals in 2025. This meteoric rise reflects not only his individual brilliance but also his leadership in guiding the Thunder to championship glory. His journey is a masterclass in development and perseverance.
SGA has become the quintessential star for the modern game. At 27, he is a young, hungry, and incredibly athletic wing who effortlessly combines elite scoring with precise distribution and tenacious defense. His well-rounded game and consistent high-level performance make him a nightmare for opponents and a dream for fans.
Just as his franchise is hailed as the model for success in a post-superteam NBA, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander embodies the ideal star player for this new era. With the Thunder looking primed for a long run of title contention, expect to see a great deal of him for years to come, continuing to dominate the conversation and cement his legacy as one of the league’s most influential figures.
11. **Paige Bueckers: Changing the Game for Women’s Basketball Business**Paige Bueckers, the 2025 WNBA Rookie of the Year, will freely admit that she has always operated on the court with a bit of delusion. But that same fearless conviction has been just as true of her groundbreaking approach to business, which is profoundly impacting the landscape for female athletes. The 23-year-old, who just finished her first WNBA season with the Wings, has long operated as if the commercial opportunities she envisions for herself and other women in sports should be realities, not distant hypotheticals.
She has arrived at a pivotal moment when this “delusional” thinking is proving to be anything but. During her senior season with the Huskies, Bueckers reportedly commanded an astounding $1.4 million in NIL deals. This financial muscle afforded her a unique kind of power – the ability to say no, to ask for something different, and, crucially, to ensure that other voices were heard in the negotiation room.
Her influence extends far beyond her personal earnings. Bueckers has meticulously set her priorities, carrying her forward-thinking mindset from college directly into the WNBA. She’s not just an athlete; she’s an advocate and a pioneer, demonstrating that women’s basketball stars can, and should, command significant commercial value.
Paige Bueckers is not merely playing basketball; she is actively reshaping the economic realities for female athletes, proving that their talent and marketability deserve recognition and investment. Her journey highlights a powerful shift, making what was once considered aspirational now tangible and achievable for a new generation.
12. **A’ja Wilson: A New Signature Era for Black Women in Sports**A’ja Wilson stands as an undisputed titan of the WNBA, a three-time MVP and two-time champion who consistently shatters records and redefines excellence. In June, her relentless drive and scoring prowess saw her become the fastest player in WNBA history to reach 5,000 points, a testament to her unwavering dominance on the court. But her influence extends far beyond statistics and trophy hauls.
A month prior to her scoring milestone, Wilson achieved another monumental feat, one that speaks volumes about her cultural impact: Nike released the A’One. This wasn’t just another shoe endorsement; it marked the first time the company had put out a signature shoe for a Black woman in over two decades. This groundbreaking moment is a powerful statement of recognition and representation.
The significance of the A’One cannot be overstated. It’s a symbol of progress, breaking barriers and creating a visible platform for Black female athletes who have historically been overlooked in the lucrative world of signature footwear. Wilson isn’t just an athlete; she’s a role model whose success paves the way for future generations.
Wilson’s consistent high-level performance and her profound impact off the court make her one of the most powerful figures in sports. She embodies the intersection of athletic greatness and cultural advocacy, using her platform to not only inspire but also to demand greater equity and visibility for Black women in the industry.
13. **Caitlin Clark: The WNBA’s Unmatched Box Office Draw**The axiom that absence can sometimes be the most powerful measure of presence rings profoundly true when examining the impact of Caitlin Clark. As the WNBA’s 2024 Rookie of the Year, Clark has transformed the league’s landscape, and her influence becomes starkly apparent when she’s not on the court. Her mere presence guarantees “showtime,” making her arguably the most captivating draw in professional basketball.
The numbers don’t lie. All-Star Game viewership this year plummeted by a staggering 36% compared to the previous summer, directly correlated with the Fever guard being sidelined due to a groin injury. Furthermore, last season, home teams tended to draw about 5,000 fewer fans in games Clark missed, unequivocally showcasing her unparalleled drawing power and magnetic appeal.
When she is on the court, however, Indiana’s attack transforms into one of the league’s most dynamic, boasting top rankings in both pace and offensive rating. Her dazzling playmaking, uncanny shooting range, and fearless leadership elevate the entire team, making every Fever game a must-watch event. She doesn’t just play; she elevates the entire game.
The Indiana Fever’s remarkable turnaround is a direct reflection of Clark’s star power. In just three years, they’ve soared from 11th in attendance (averaging 4,066 fans) to a phenomenal second place (averaging 16,790 as of August 15). The Fever’s title hopes, and the continued surge in WNBA popularity, firmly rest on her young but incredibly strong shoulders, cementing her as an undeniable force in sports.
14. **Connor McDavid: Canada’s Hockey Messiah and NHL Superstar**The NHL offseason was dominated by a relentless chatter about the future of the Oilers’ captain, Connor McDavid. The conversation revolved around when he would sign a contract extension with Edmonton—his current deal is set to expire at the end of this season—or if he should consider moving to a bigger market. Yet, regardless of how his contract situation ultimately resolves, his new deal is but one item on the plate for a 28-year-old NHL superstar who is perhaps one of the most important people in Canada.
McDavid’s influence stretches far beyond the ice and even national borders. A year after scoring the thrilling overtime winner for Team Canada in the championship game of the 4 Nations Face-Off in February, he is now set to be one of the undeniable stars of the 2026 Milano-Cortina Games. This will mark the first Olympics in 12 years with NHL players participating, and McDavid’s presence guarantees global attention.
Then there’s the relentless pursuit of an elusive Stanley Cup. McDavid, who has impressively recorded at least 100 points for the eighth time in his 10-year career last season, will continue on his quest to win Edmonton its first title since the legendary days of Wayne Gretzky. His consistent excellence and singular drive make him the undisputed leader of the Oilers and a beacon of hope for an entire nation.
Connor McDavid isn’t just the best player in hockey; he’s a national icon, a market mover, and a global ambassador for the sport. His legacy is being written with every dazzling play, every clutch performance, and every leadership moment. He represents the pinnacle of athletic power, captivating audiences and inspiring a generation with his unparalleled skill and unwavering determination.
And there you have it, folks! From the strategic brilliance of a judo Olympian turned UFC star to the basketball prodigies reshaping brand deals and attendance records, and the hockey sensation carrying the hopes of a nation, these athletes are more than just performers. They are architects of change, cultural touchstones, and undeniable power players, continually pushing the boundaries of what it means to be influential in the fast-paced world of modern sports. Keep your eyes peeled, because these titans are just getting started!
