Kaepernick, Rapinoe, Murray – The most influential sports people of the decade

Kaepernick, Rapinoe, Murray — The Most Influential Sports People of the Decade

Some athletes transcend sport. In the 2010s, a select few weren’t just champions in their fields — they were shapers of culture, voices in social justice, and symbols of change. This article highlights those whose influence reached far beyond records and trophies.

Colin Kaepernick: Protest and Persistence

• He knelt during the U.S. national anthem in protest of racial injustice and police brutality.
• Despite career costs, he became an icon for social activism and sparked nationwide debate.
• His stand inspired allies across sports and beyond, challenging institutions to reckon with inequality.

Siya Kolisi: Unifier Through Rugby

• The first Black captain of South Africa’s national rugby team in its long history, lifting his country’s expectations.
• His leadership and personal background resonated deeply in a nation still grappling with racial divisions.
• He became a symbol of hope, unity, and possibility beyond just sports success.

Megan Rapinoe: Athlete & Activist

• Fierce on the pitch, outspoken off it — advocating for gender equality, LGBT rights, and racial justice.
• She publicly challenged institutions over pay gaps and fairness between men’s and women’s sport.
• Her voice and bold stance made her a cultural figure as much as a top-level athlete.

Andy Murray: Champion for Equality

• A three-time Grand Slam winner who used his platform to challenge sexism in tennis.
• He hired a woman coach and publicly identified as feminist, pushing against traditional norms.
• His legacy is not just tournaments won, but conversations sparked about fairness.

Simone Biles: Redefining Greatness

• At a young age, she dominated gymnastics with an unmatched list of titles and resilience.
• She also became a voice for survivors, speaking out after abuse and supporting others to do the same.
• Her combination of excellence and courage made her an icon for the sport and beyond.

Anthony Joshua: Boxing’s Global Ambassador

• He brought renewed attention to heavyweight boxing with massive events and global reach.
• His fights attracted record crowds, bridging appeal across demographics and regions.
• Joshua’s presence helped modernize the sport’s image and deepen its relevance.

Alex Zanardi: Triumph Beyond Tragedy

• After a nearly fatal crash and losing both legs, he transitioned to paracycling and won Paralympic golds.
• His resilience, recovery, and success defied limits and shifted ideas about ability.
• Zanardi’s journey became an emblem of overcoming adversity, not defined by failure but by renewal.

Caster Semenya: Battling Identity & Regulation

• A two-time Olympic gold medallist whose career faced controversy due to sex development regulations.
• She fought for self-acceptance and fairness under scrutiny from sport’s governing bodies.
• Her struggle spurred debates about biology, identity, and who gets to define fairness in athletics.

Legacy & Lessons

These figures remind us that influence in sport extends far beyond photos and trophies. Their actions — bold, principled, complicated — shaped culture, policy, and perception. As we measure impact, their stories teach that true legacy lies not only in wins, but in the courage to challenge systems, amplify silenced voices, and inspire change.