Women who influenced sports most in the year 2024

They lead, they inspire, and they redefine the game. From Ballon d’Or winners to record-shattering achievements, these women pushed the boundaries of what’s possible.

On and off the field, they blaze trails for the next generation, wielding their influence as catalysts for equality and progress.

One of them is Coco Gauff, the world’s highest-paid tennis player

She’s just crossed into her 20s, yet she’s already topping global wealth rankings—and, naturally, making waves in sports as well. The Atlanta youngster has become one of the most influential figures in tennis.

In 2024, she earned a record $4.8 million (€4.4 million) for her victory at the Riyadh Finals. Despite criticism for participating in a tournament in Saudi Arabia, Gauff defended her decision as an opportunity to drive change from within. Her growth as both an athlete and activist, combined with her undeniable talent, establishes her as a role model in the sporting world.

Another pacesetter is Julien Alfred, the sprinter from Saint Lucia

World athletics was forever changed by Alfred, whose victory in the 100 metres at the Paris Olympics not only crowned her the fastest woman on the planet but also turned her into a national icon. Saint Lucia had never won an Olympic medal before, and Alfred shattered that record by claiming gold in her signature event and silver in the 200 metres. At just 23 years old, Alfred earned not only financial rewards and a parcel of land in her homeland but also the admiration of young Caribbean athletes aspiring to follow in her footsteps. Her achievement even led her nation to declare a public holiday in her honour.

In Aitana Bonmatí, FC Barcelona star, women’s football found its ultimate ambassador in Bonmatí, who claimed her second consecutive Ballon d’Or in 2024 and FIFA The Best award. An undisputed leader in the midfield of FC Barcelona, Bonmatí was instrumental in the club’s historic quadruple last season. But her impact goes beyond the pitch: she has been a staunch advocate for equality within the Spanish national team, speaking openly about structural shortcomings in women’s football. "Nothing has changed since our World Cup victory," she stated in April, reaffirming her commitment to driving essential change.

Others are Diana Taurasi, a WNBA and USA Basketball icon, who at 42 years old, continued to write basketball history. In Paris, she became the first-ever player to win six Olympic gold medals.

Ilona Maher of US Rugby sensation also inspires with her charisma and authenticity, Maher revolutionised the perception of rugby. Her success at the Paris Olympics, coupled with her ability to engage millions of followers on Instagram and TikTok, turned her into a global ambassador for the sport.

Ari Sánchez and Paula Josemaría, the world’s best padel duo. In 2024, Ari Sánchez and Paula Josemaría cemented their dominance in Padel by winning 10 titles, including three of the four Majors and the Premier Padel Finals. With 37 trophies in their careers, they surpassed the historic Sánchez-Alayeto twins to become the most successful pair in the history of women’s padel, a discipline that’s trending, rising like a rocket.

Simone Biles, the undisputed queen of gymnastics returned to the top of the Olympic podium in Paris 2024, earning four medals that made her the most decorated American gymnast of all time.

Michele Kang, visionary in women’s football. In just five years, the mogul went from knowing nothing about football to owning three women’s teams. Her vision led her to invest over $85 million (€78 million) in projects aimed at advancing performance and development in women’s sports.

Also on the list are Emma Hayes, the US Women’s soccer team coach, and Caitlin Clark, the new face of basketball.