There are many inspiring athletes, but some of them go beyond the sports field. These athletes use their platform and influence to create social change. In this article we will examine a few, including Serena Williams', Michael Phelps', Brittany Griner's and Mary Keitany. These athletes inspire us to take action and be better people.
Michael Phelps
Michael Phelps is one the most famous athletes of all time. Phelps began his career as a teenager and has since won 28 Olympic medals, four Olympic Games golds, and 39 world records. Phelps has been a victim of depression and has since become a strong advocate for mental well-being and mental health. He produced a HBO Sports documentary called "The Weight of Gold" that he recently produced. Interviews with Olympians Greg Louganis who is widely recognized as the greatest diver in history are featured in the film.
Serena Williams
Serena Williams is a major influence on tennis and has inspired many players. She has a powerful voice which has been used for helping those in crisis. She has helped to create schools for underprivileged children, and championed healthcare for women and infants. She is also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Brittany Griner
For many athletes, Brittany Griner's story is one of inspiration. Her bullies at school led her to be called "a male" and she was even once called "a woman." Griner considered slitting her wrists because she felt like an outcast. Griner persevered despite the negative comments and became an Olympic gold-medalist.
Mary Keitany
Keitany won in 2018 the TCS New York Marathon. After the race, she was certain she would win the New York City Marathon. She was motivated to win for her family and show her pride in them. Keitany was able to do this, despite the challenges she faced after giving birth to her first son.
Michael Oher
Michael Oher was a wanderer from an early age. At the tail end of the first grade, child services removed him and his siblings from their mother's home. They bounced from foster homes to friends' couches.
Althea Gibson
Althea Gibbons is an inspirational figure to young and older athletes. She was born in Silver in South Carolina in 1927. She worked tirelessly against the injustices in her neighborhood and in sports. She became the best female tennis player in the world, and was the first African-American woman to win the Wimbledon championship.