Who Is the Greatest Athlete of All Time?
Many people enjoy watching sports, but one question often creates strong opinions: Who is the greatest athlete of all time? There is no single correct answer, because people value different qualities such as talent, hard work, success, and influence. However, by looking at famous athletes from different sports, we can better understand what “greatest” really means.
Some people believe Michael Jordan is the greatest athlete of all time. He played basketball for the Chicago Bulls and won six NBA championships. Jordan was known for his skill, confidence, and leadership. He performed his best in important games and became a global sports icon. Many fans admire him because he helped make basketball popular around the world.
Others say Lionel Messi deserves the title. Messi is a football (soccer) player from Argentina and is famous for his amazing control, speed, and creativity. He won many trophies with Barcelona and later helped Argentina win the World Cup. Messi is not very tall or physically strong, but he shows that intelligence and technique are just as important as strength.
Another strong candidate is Serena Williams, one of the greatest tennis players in history. She won 23 Grand Slam titles and dominated women’s tennis for many years. Serena faced many challenges, including injuries and criticism, but she continued to succeed. She inspired many people, especially young women, to believe in themselves and work hard.
Some fans choose Usain Bolt, the fastest man in the world. Bolt holds world records in the 100 and 200 meters and won many Olympic gold medals. What makes him special is not only his speed but also his confidence and fun personality. He made track and field exciting for people everywhere.
So, who is the greatest athlete of all time? The answer depends on how we define greatness. Is it winning the most titles? Changing a sport? Inspiring people around the world? Each athlete mentioned here is great in a different way.
In the end, the greatest athlete may not be one person. Greatness can mean success, influence, hard work, and the ability to inspire others. Sports give us heroes who motivate us to be better—both on and off the field—and that may be the greatest achievement of all.
Vocabulary List
Click the speaker to hear each word.
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Opinion
A personal belief or idea.Example: Everyone has an opinion about the best athlete.
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Qualities
Important characteristics of a person.Example: Discipline and confidence are strong qualities.
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Influence
The power to affect people or change how they think.Example: Famous athletes can influence young fans.
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Championship
A top-level competition to find the best team or player.Example: Winning a championship is a big achievement.
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Icon
A very famous person who represents something important.Example: Michael Jordan became a sports icon.
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Deserves
Should get something because of effort or achievement.Example: Many people think Messi deserves the title.
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Technique
A skillful way of doing something.Example: Her tennis technique is excellent.
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Dominated
Controlled or was much better than others.Example: Serena dominated tennis for many years.
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World record
The best result ever achieved in the world.Example: Usain Bolt holds a world record in sprinting.
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Motivate
To encourage someone to take action or try harder.Example: Sports stories can motivate people to exercise.
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Achievement
Something you succeed in doing after effort.Example: Winning an Olympic gold medal is a huge achievement.
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Define
To explain the meaning of something.Example: People define “greatness” in different ways.
Comprehension Questions
Answer these questions about the article.
- What question does the article ask?
- Why is it difficult to choose one “greatest” athlete?
- What sport did Michael Jordan play?
- What did Lionel Messi achieve with Argentina?
- How many Grand Slam titles did Serena Williams win (according to the article)?
- What events is Usain Bolt famous for?
- What are two ways people can define “greatness”?
- Do you think there can be one greatest athlete? Why or why not?