Top 10 Canadian Athletes of All-Time

By Jayson Panganiban April 16, 2024 14:23

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Getty Images

Canada has produced some of the world's most outstanding athletes across various sports.

From ice hockey to athletics, these athletes have left an indelible mark on the world stage, inspiring generations of Canadians and sports enthusiasts globally.

Here are the top 10 Canadian athletes of all time, celebrated for their remarkable achievements and contributions to the world of sports.

1. Wayne Gretzky

Known as "The Great One," Wayne Gretzky is widely regarded as the greatest ice hockey player of all time.

His illustrious career saw him break numerous scoring records and win four Stanley Cup championships with the Edmonton Oilers. Gretzky's vision, hockey IQ, and playmaking abilities revolutionized the sport, earning him numerous accolades and cementing his legacy in the hockey world.

2. Christine Sinclair

Christine Sinclair is a legendary figure in women's soccer, holding the record for most international goals scored by any player, male or female.

Sinclair's impact extends beyond the field, as she has inspired countless young athletes and helped elevate the profile of women's soccer in Canada.

3. Donovan Bailey

Donovan Bailey's name is synonymous with speed and excellence in track and field. He achieved global fame by winning the 100 meters at the 1996 Olympics in a world record time, solidifying his status as one of the greatest sprinters in history.

Bailey's electrifying performances continue to inspire Canadian sprinters and aspiring track athletes.

4. Cindy Klassen

Cindy Klassen is one of Canada's most decorated speed skaters, having won six Olympic medals, including a gold, two silver, and three bronze.

Her remarkable versatility across different speed skating disciplines has established her as a Canadian sports icon and a source of inspiration for aspiring speed skaters.

5. Steve Nash

Steve Nash is a two-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) and one of the greatest basketball players of his era. His exceptional ball-handling, shooting, and playmaking skills endeared him to fans around the world.

Nash's impact transcends his on-court achievements, as he has been influential in growing the popularity of basketball in Canada and inspiring a new generation of Canadian basketball talent.

6. Hayley Wickenheiser

Hayley Wickenheiser is a trailblazer in women's ice hockey, having achieved unparalleled success and recognition in the sport.

With four Olympic gold medals and numerous World Championship titles to her name, Wickenheiser's dominance on the ice has solidified her as one of the greatest female hockey players in history.

7. Georges St-Pierre

Georges St-Pierre is a mixed martial arts (MMA) legend, known for his exceptional athleticism, fighting skills, and sportsmanship.

As a two-division UFC champion, St-Pierre's impact on the sport has been profound, and he is revered as one of the most complete and dominant fighters in MMA history.

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8. Nancy Greene

Nancy Greene is a Canadian skiing icon, renowned for her exceptional achievements in alpine skiing. Her triumphs include winning gold and silver medals at the 1968 Winter Olympics, as well as numerous World Cup victories.

9. Terry Fox

Terry Fox's legacy transcends traditional athletic achievements, as he is celebrated for his extraordinary courage and resilience in the face of adversity.

Despite losing a leg to cancer, Fox embarked on a cross-Canada run to raise awareness and funds for cancer research.

His remarkable journey, known as the "Marathon of Hope," continues to inspire millions of people worldwide and remains a testament to the power of the human spirit.

10. Penny Oleksiak

Penny Oleksiak burst onto the world stage at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she captured the hearts of Canadians with her exceptional swimming performances.

At just 16 years old, Oleksiak became the first Canadian to win four medals at a single summer Olympics, including a gold in the 100-meter freestyle.

Her achievements have solidified her as a rising star in Canadian swimming and a beacon of hope for the future of Canadian aquatics.

These remarkable Canadian athletes have not only achieved unparalleled success in their respective sports but have also served as inspirations for millions of individuals around the world.

As Canada's sporting legacy continues to evolve, these athletes will forever remain an integral part of the country's rich sporting tapestry.