- Team: Atlanta Braves (MLB)
- Net worth: $25 million
- Records: 755 home runs; 2,297 runs batted in (RBIs); only player in history to hit 30 home runs in 15 seasons.
Hank Aaron, hailing from Mobile, Alabama, is celebrated as one of baseball's all-time greats, known for breaking Babe Ruth's home run record. His legendary status is cemented by his remarkable resilience, skill, and contribution to civil rights.
- Team: Dogsled racing
- Net worth: Unknown
- Records: 4-time Yukon Quest winner; 4-time Iditarod winner.
Lance Mackey, from Fairbanks, Alaska, is a legendary figure in the world of dog shed racing. As the first to win both the Iditarod and Yukon Quest races in the same year in 2007, he became an idol in the sport. Then, he did it all again the next year, the only person to ever do so.
- Team: Gymnastics, Team USA
- Net worth: $2 million
- Records: 2-time Olympian and gold medalist
Kerri Strug's iconic vault on an injured ankle at the 1996 Olympics, securing the first-ever team gold for USA women's gymnastics, immortalized her as Arizona's most legendary athlete. Her courage and determination captivated the world.
- Team: Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Net worth: $20 million
- Records: 6 NBA championships; 2 Olympic gold medals
Scottie Pippen, hailing from Arkansas, played an integral role in the Chicago Bulls' six NBA championships during the 1990s. He was the first player to win an Olympic gold medal and an NBA Championship in the same season twice.
- Team: New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL)
- Net worth: $300 million
- Records: Most NFL championships by player (7); All-time leader in passing completions in the NFL (7,753)
Tom Brady's career is marked by an unparalleled seven Super Bowl victories, numerous MVP awards, and record-breaking performances, making him arguably the greatest NFL quarterback and the most legendary athlete from California.
- Team: Competitive swimming, Team USA
- Net worth: $3 million
- Records: Former world record holder for 200-meter Backstroke (Long Course) and 4x100-meter Medley Relay (Long and Short Course)
Missy Franklin's remarkable career is highlighted by her five Olympic gold medals and a world record in the 200m backstroke, making her the most legendary swimmer and celebrated athlete from Colorado.
- Team: New York Rangers (NHL)
- Net worth: $50 million
- Records: 2-time Norris Trophy winner Conn Smythe Trophy Winner
Brian Leetch, hailing from Connecticut, etched his name in hockey history as a legendary defenseman, winning the Norris Trophy twice and leading the New York Rangers to their 1994 Stanley Cup victory, their first in 54 years.
- Team: Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)
- Net worth: $60 million
- Records: Former All-Star Game career record holder for most free throws made (78)
Elgin Baylor's illustrious career is marked by his revolutionary playing style, 11 NBA All-Star appearances, and averaging a double-double across his career, making him the most legendary athlete from Washington, D.C.
- Team: Washington Mystics (WNBA)
- Net worth: $400,000
- Records: First WNBA player to become a member of pro basketball’s 50-40-90 club; 3-time WNBA All-Star starter
Elena Delle Donne's career is distinguished by her MVP awards, Olympic gold medal, and her remarkable scoring ability, making her the most legendary basketball player and an iconic athlete from Delaware.
- Team: San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys (NFL); Atlanta Braves (MLB)
- Net worth: $45 million
- Records: 2-time Super Bowl winner
Deion Sanders, known as "Prime Time," became legendary for being the only athlete to play in both a Super Bowl and a World Series, alongside multiple NFL Pro Bowl selections, making him Florida's most iconic sports figure.
- Team: Brooklyn Dodgers (MLB)
- Net worth: $6 million
- Records: Rookie of the Year in his debut season in 1947; National League MVP in 1949; six-time All-Star
Jackie Robinson's legacy extends beyond his remarkable baseball skills; breaking Major League Baseball's color barrier in 1947, he became a symbol of racial integration and civil rights, making him the most legendary athlete from Georgia.
- Team: Competitive swimming, Team USA
- Net worth: $1.9 million
- Records: Set 3 world records in the 100-yard freestyle
Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing, brought Hawaiian surf culture to the world. His Olympic gold medals in swimming further cemented his status as Hawaii's most legendary athlete and cultural ambassador.
- Team: Minnesota Twins (MLB)
- Net worth: $4 million
- Records: 8 40-home run seasons; 44 multiple home run games
Harmon Killebrew, hailing from Idaho, left an indelible mark in baseball with his prodigious power hitting, leading the American League in home runs six times and earning a place in the Hall of Fame, making him Idaho's most legendary athlete.
- Team: Miami Heat (NBA)
- Net worth: $170 million
- Records: First NBA player to finish a season with 2,000 points, 500 assists, 100 steals, and 100 blocks
Dwyane Wade's illustrious career, highlighted by three NBA championships with the Miami Heat, a Finals MVP award, and 13 NBA All-Star selections, cements him as the most legendary athlete from Illinois. His impact transcends basketball, leaving a lasting legacy.
- Team: Boston Celtics (NBA)
- Net worth: $75 million
- Records: First non-center to win 3 consecutive NBA MVP Awards
Larry Bird's basketball career is marked by three NBA championships, two NBA Finals MVP awards, and three consecutive regular-season MVPs, showcasing his extraordinary skill and competitive spirit. His rivalry with Magic Johnson revitalized the NBA, leaving an enduring legacy.
- Team: Wrestling, Team USA
- Net worth: $900,000
- Records: 2-time NCAA Division I national champion; world gold medalist in freestyle wrestling
After growing up wrestling in Iowa, Dan Gable became an inspiration when he won an Olympic gold medal in 1972 without surrendering a single point. His collegiate record and coaching success at the University of Iowa transformed American wrestling, inspiring generations of athletes.
- Team: Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Net worth: $50 million
- Records: Rushing over 1,000 yards in 10 consecutive seasons; first player to achieve 1,500 rushing yards or more in five different seasons
Barry Sanders' NFL career, marked by electrifying runs and elusive agility, includes winning the 1988 Heisman Trophy, earning the 1997 NFL MVP, and securing ten consecutive Pro Bowl selections. His retirement left fans yearning for more of his extraordinary talent.
- Team: Boxing, Team USA
- Net worth: $50 million
- Records: 56 wins (including 37 knockouts) and 5 losses
Muhammad Ali, from Kentucky, transcended boxing with three heavyweight titles and iconic fights. Beyond sports, his activism against racial injustice and the Vietnam War established him as a global icon for peace and equality, earning him the title "The Greatest."
- Team: Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos (NFL)
- Net worth: $300 million
- Records: Most NFL MVP awards (5)
Peyton Manning, hailing from Louisiana, revolutionized the NFL with his brilliant plays as quarterback securing two Super Bowl titles, five MVP awards, and numerous passing records. His unparalleled football intellect and leadership make him Louisiana's most legendary athlete.
- Team: Competitive swimming, Team USA
- Net worth: $2 million
- Records: Set world records in 50-meter butterfly (long and short course), 100-meter butterfly (long and short course), and 100-meter freestyle (short course)
Ian Crocker, from Maine, distinguished himself in swimming with three Olympic gold medals, a silver, and a bronze. His world records and dominance in butterfly events crown him as Maine's most legendary athlete.
- Team: New York Yankees (MLB)
- Net worth: $800,000
- Records: All-time leader with career slugging percentage of .6897; first batter to hit 50 home runs in a season and 500 homers in a career
Babe Ruth revolutionized baseball with his powerful hitting, accumulating 714 home runs and maintaining a .342 batting average. His charismatic presence and record-breaking performances made him a sports icon and transformed the game's popularity.
- Team: Boxing
- Net worth: $50 million
- Records: Only heavyweight boxing champion to retire undefeated
Rocky Marciano, an unbeaten heavyweight champion, retired with a perfect 49-0 record, including 43 knockouts. His relentless power, stamina, and iron chin made him a boxing legend and an enduring symbol of resilience and determination.
- Team: Tennis, Team USA
- Net worth: $300 million
- Records: Most Grand Slam singles titles in the Open Era (23 major championships)
Serena Williams dominated tennis with 23 Grand Slam singles titles, the most in the Open Era. Her powerful game, resilience, and longevity reshaped women's tennis, making her an icon of excellence and a trailblazer for future generations.
- Team: Alpine ski racing, Team USA
- Net worth: $14 million
- Records: 82 won World Cup races
Lindsey Vonn, from Minnesota, became the most successful female ski racer in history with 82 World Cup wins, including four overall titles and three Olympic medals. Her fearless skiing and perseverance made her a legendary figure in winter sports.
- Team: San Francisco 49ers (NFL)
- Net worth: $50 million
- Records: 1,549 career receptions; 22,895 receiving yards; 208 touchdowns
Jerry Rice, hailing from Mississippi, redefined the wide receiver position with an NFL-record 1,549 receptions, 22,895 receiving yards, and 197 touchdowns. His unmatched work ethic and game-changing performances made him the greatest wide receiver in NFL history.
- Team: Green Bay Packers (NFL)
- Net worth: Unknown
- Records: Only person inducted into both the National Baseball Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Cal Hubbard, from Missouri, uniquely excelled in both the NFL and MLB, earning Hall of Fame honors in football as a dominant lineman and in baseball as an influential umpire. His dual-sport legacy is unmatched, making him a legendary figure.
- Team: New York Knicks (NBA)
- Net worth: $60 million
- Records: 2 NBA championships
Phil Jackson, hailing from Montana, not only transformed the NBA as a coach with 11 championships but also contributed on the court as a player, winning two titles with the New York Knicks.
- Team: St. Louis Cardinals
- Net worth: $4 million
- Records: 9-time All Star; 2-time World Series Champion
Bob Gibson, from Nebraska, dominated MLB as one of the fiercest pitchers ever, with 251 wins, a career 2.91 ERA, and two Cy Young Awards. His legendary 1968 season and World Series performances made him an iconic figure in baseball history.
(Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons; Monowi, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
- Team: Tennis, Team USA
- Net worth: $145 million
- Records: 8 Grand Slam singles titles; 1 Olympic gold medal
Andre Agassi, from Nevada, redefined tennis with his eight Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold, becoming one of the sport's most beloved figures. His comeback story and philanthropy off the court solidified his legendary status.
- Team: Competitive swimming, Team USA
- Net worth: $1 million
- Records: Set 1992 records in 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle; 12 Olympic medals
Jenny Thompson, from New Hampshire, made waves in swimming with 12 Olympic medals, including eight golds, dominating the pools across four Games. Her record-breaking performances and longevity in the sport cement her as its most legendary athlete.
- Team: Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat (NBA)
- Net worth: $400 million
- Records: 4 NBA championships; 3 MVP awards; 15-time NBA All-Star; 1994-94 season NBA scoring title
Shaquille O’Neal, from New Jersey, transformed basketball with his sheer size and skill, winning four NBA championships and earning three Finals MVP awards. His dominant presence and charismatic personality made him an unforgettable figure in the sport.
- Team: Professional golf
- Net worth: $10 million
- Records: 48 LPGA Tour wins
Nancy Lopez, from New Mexico, revolutionized women's golf with 48 LPGA Tour wins, including three major championships. Her remarkable skill, sportsmanship, and influence on young golfers cemented her status as golf's most legendary athlete from New Mexico.
- Team: Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards (NBA)
- Net worth: $3.24 billion
- Records: Holds the record for NBA scoring titles (10)
Michael Jordan, widely regarded as basketball's greatest player, hails from New York. With six NBA championships, five MVP awards, and countless iconic moments, his unparalleled skill and competitive spirit have left an indelible mark on the sport.
- Team: Boxing, Team USA
- Net worth: $120 million
- Records: 5-time Fighter of the Year; 1 Olympic gold medal
Sugar Ray Leonard, from North Carolina, electrified boxing with his speed, skill, and charisma. Winning world titles in five weight divisions and beating some of the biggest names in the sport, he became boxing's quintessential superstar.
- Team: New York Yankees (MBL)
- Net worth: $1.6 million
- Records: Set single-season home run record in 1961 season with 61 home runs
Roger Maris, from North Dakota, forever etched his name in baseball history by breaking Babe Ruth's single-season home run record with 61 homers in 1961. His achievement challenged the sport's records and made him a legendary figure.
(Tony Spina, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons; Baseball Digest, page 2, March 1957 issue. [1], Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)
- Team: Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)
- Net worth: $1.18 billion
- Records: All-time leading scorer in NBA (40,409 points); 2 Olympic gold medals
LeBron James, from Ohio, redefined the NBA with his versatility, leading his teams to four championships and earning four MVP awards. His off-court activism and leadership further distinguish him as basketball's most impactful figure from Ohio.
- Team: New York Yankees (MLB)
- Net worth: $10 million
- Records: Most home runs in World Series history (18)
Mickey Mantle, from Oklahoma, became an MLB icon with the New York Yankees, winning seven World Series titles and three MVP awards. His powerful switch-hitting and speed made him a legendary figure in baseball history.
- Team: Boston Celtics (NBA); Toronto Blue Jays (MLB)
- Net worth: $12 million
- Records: 2 NBA championships; NBA All-Star in 1988
Danny Ainge, a multi-sport high school star and BYU standout, was drafted by the MLB before moving to the NBA. With the Boston Celtics, he secured two championships and became the second player to hit 900 three-pointers.
- Team: Philadelphia/San Francisco Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)
- Net worth: $10 million
- Records: Most points per game in a season (averaged 50.36 points per game in 1961-62 season)
Wilt Chamberlain, from Pennsylvania, revolutionized basketball with his unmatched scoring ability, famously scoring 100 points in a single game. His dominance on the court led to two NBA championships and four MVP awards, making him a legendary figure.
- Team: Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia Athletics, Cleveland Naps (MLB)
- Net worth: Unknown
- Records: 5-time AL batting champion; AL home run leader in 1901
Nap Lajoie, hailing from Rhode Island, left a lasting mark on MLB with his exceptional batting skills, winning the Triple Crown in 1901. His career .338 batting average and innovative play make him a legendary figure in baseball history.
- Team: Boxing, Team USA
- Net worth: $100,000
- Records: 3-time heavyweight world titleholder
Joe Frazier, from South Carolina, became a boxing legend by winning the Olympic gold in 1964 and becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion. His victory over Muhammad Ali in "The Fight of the Century" cements his legendary status.
- Team: Professional wrestling
- Net worth: $25 million
- Records: UFC Heavyweight Champion
Brock Lesnar, from South Dakota, redefined professional wrestling. A multi-time WWE Champion, his transition from NCAA wrestling champion to dominating WWE and UFC heavyweight champion showcases his unparalleled versatility and legendary status.
- Team: Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers (NFL)
- Net worth: $8 million
- Records: 2 consecutive seasons leading league in sacks; 9 consecutive seasons with 10+ sacks; 5 seasons with 15+ sacks
Tennessee native Reggie White transformed the NFL with his defensive prowess, recording 198 sacks, making him one of the all-time leaders. His combination of strength, speed, and sportsmanship made him a legendary figure in football history.
- Team: California Angels (MLB)
- Net worth: $80 million
- Records: MLB strikeout record holder (5,714); MLB no-hitter record holder (7); longest MLB career (27 seasons)
Texan Nolan Ryan reshaped MLB with an unparalleled pitching career, amassing 5,714 strikeouts and throwing seven no-hitters, the most in history. His longevity and dominance on the mound make him an iconic figure in baseball.
- Team: San Francisco 49ers
- Net worth: $200 million
- Records: Most Super Bowl passing touchdowns (6)
Steve Young, emerging from Utah, left an indelible mark on football with his dynamic play as a quarterback. A three-time Super Bowl champion and two-time MVP, his exceptional versatility and leadership made him a legendary figure in the NFL.
- Team: Boston Red Sox and Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Net worth: $10 million
- Records: 2,226 games caught; 351 home runs by a catcher
Carlton Fisk, hailing from Vermont, etched his name in MLB history as one of the greatest catchers, known for his durability and power. His iconic 1975 World Series home run epitomizes his legendary status in baseball.
- Team: Tennis
- Net worth: $4 million
- Records: 3 Grand Slam singles titles; 2 Grand Slam doubles titles
Arthur Ashe, from Virginia, broke barriers as the first African American man to win the US Open, Wimbledon, and Australian Open. His activism and advocacy for civil rights cement his legacy beyond his tennis achievements.
- Team: Denver Broncos
- Net worth: $145 million
- Records: 4th in league history for rushing attempts by quarterback
John Elway, originating from Washington, revolutionized the quarterback position with his powerful arm and clutch performances. Leading the Denver Broncos to two Super Bowl victories, his remarkable career and leadership make him an NFL legend.
- Team: New England Patriots
- Net worth: $25 million
- Records: Most single-season touchdown receptions (23)
Randy Moss, from West Virginia, redefined the wide receiver role in the NFL with his unmatched speed and catching ability. A six-time Pro Bowler and record holder for single-season touchdown receptions, Moss's impact is legendary.
- Team: Speed skating, Team USA
- Net worth: Unknown
- Records: First athlete to win five gold medals in a single Olympics
Eric Heiden, from Wisconsin, set an Olympic record at the 1980 Lake Placid Games with five gold medals, the most by any athlete in a single Olympics. A legend in speed skating, he broke six world records and won seven world championships.
- Team: Green Bay Packers (NFL)
- Net worth: $12 Million
- Records: NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
Boyd Dowler, hailing from Wyoming, left an indelible mark on the NFL as a key player for the Green Bay Packers, winning five NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowls. His legacy is etched in football history.
