Jenni Hermoso
by Mana Shim
Athlete and the Chair of the U.S. Soccer Participant Safety Taskforce
There wasn’t a question in Jenni Hermoso’s mind that what Luis Rubiales did to her onstage after her team won the 2023 Women’s World Cup was wrong. When Rubiales, the president of the Spanish football federation—Hermoso’s boss—grabbed her face and kissed her, millions of us watching live on television knew it was wrong too.
Speaking up in 2021 about my own experience with sexual harassment was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done, so I know how much bravery it requires. My decision to come forward helped spur a new era in women’s soccer in the U.S.—but globally, soccer is still controlled by men. Hermoso courageously told her truth, over and over again, despite efforts to silence her.
After Spanish players united as one in protest, Rubiales resigned and was eventually banned for three years by FIFA. In the National Women’s Soccer League last summer, my teammates and I were proud to wear her name on our wrist to stand behind her and continue her call for change.
https://time.com/6964155/jenni-hermoso/
Patrick Mahomes
by Alex Rodriguez
Major League Baseball World Series Champion, Fox Sports Studio Analyst, and Philanthropist
Patrick Mahomes has always had the heart of a champion. I remember Pat as a young kid, coming to practice with his dad to tee up baseballs for me and my teammates. I distinctly remember giving him the worst advice ever. “Don’t play football. The money’s in baseball.”
I’m happy to be wrong and glad he didn’t listen! Patrick has transcended the game of football to become one of the most respected athletes of all time, both on and off the field. His insatiable desire to win is outdone only by his passion to give back and make the world around him better. Patrick’s legacy will live on far beyond his playing days.
And—as evidenced by his back-to-back Super Bowl wins—he’s not done yet!
https://time.com/6964929/patrick-mahomes-time100-2024/
A’ja Wilson
by Tom Brady
Seven-Time NFL Champion and Part Owner of the Las Vegas Aces
A’ja Wilson is not just an incredible athlete, she is also an inspiration to all who witness her talent and drive. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion and fearlessness in achieving greatness.
A’ja possesses a unique combination of natural skill and unwavering determination. This rare blend has propelled her to achieve remarkable feats in her career. With two WNBA championships with the Las Vegas Aces, three WNBA MVP awards, an NCAA title at the University of South Carolina, and even an Olympic gold medal, A’ja is undeniably a generational talent.
Off the court, A’ja’s leadership shines just as brightly. Her foundation supports children and families who struggle with dyslexia, a cause close to her heart. A’ja is also an advocate against bullying, using her platform to spread awareness and promote kindness. She’s a role model for athletes and individuals of all ages around the world.
A’ja’s determination and drive for excellence are the forces behind her team’s consistent victories. Her championship mentality not only secures her place in sports history but also cements her legacy of greatness that extends far beyond the realm of sports. And the best part is, she’s just getting started. She continues to push boundaries and inspire others with her remarkable journey.
A’ja Wilson is not just a champion; she is a symbol of resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Her story is a reminder that with passion and fearlessness, anyone can achieve greatness.
I know she has so much more she wants to achieve ... and I get to be in a front-row seat watching and admiring!
https://time.com/6964783/aja-wilson/
Max Verstappen
by Sean Gregory
TIME Senior Correspondent
Over the past 12 months, Max Verstappen has won in Miami and Monaco and Abu Dhabi. He’s won in Japan and Qatar and Austria and Hungary, and other places across the continents.
No athlete has enjoyed more victory laps, in more disparate places around the world, than Verstappen, the Formula One driver who has won three straight F1 championships. Verstappen, who races under the Dutch flag, is so confident behind the wheel that during at least one race he’s been able to keep an eye on the screens around the track in order to watch the battle going on behind him.
Orange-clad fans flock to his races to cheer him on, while others, dressed in the outfits of rival teams like Ferrari and Mercedes, boo him on the podium. The $3.2 billion Formula One business, which grew 25% in 2023, now centers on a singular question.
Can anyone stop Verstappen and the Red Bull Racing machine? He’s entrenched—quite comfortably—in the driver’s seat.
https://time.com/6964847/max-verstappen/
Siya Kolisi
by Trevor Noah
Comedian, Writer, and Emmy-Winning Television Host
You can’t really separate South Africa’s history from rugby. Nelson Mandela once offered rugby as an olive branch between opposing sides of the country, so there’s an immense amount of pride when it comes to the sport. It’s like the connective tissue of the nation.
Siya Kolisi, as the captain of the national rugby team, is right at the center. He’s been the embodiment of hope during a time in which many South Africans find it hard to hold on to any. Through political strife, an energy crisis, and the effects of COVID-19, Siya has made rugby into something more than just a competition.
His multiple victories—the country’s victories—have meant so much.
Through his wisdom and humility, Siya has taught us what a powerful captain should be: someone who serves and inspires those he leads. And for him to lead a team in a historically white sport, to be loved and adored by fans of all races, is an immense achievement.
Siya is an incessant warrior on the field, but he’s also a doting dad, a loving husband, and a great friend. He’s given so much to a nation of 62 million people. I hope he’s been savoring every moment of his success.
