Who Are the GOATs of All Time?
- Cate Forbes
- 17 hours ago
- 2 min read
The debate about who’s the GOAT — the Greatest of All Time — is one that lights up every court, locker room, and family barbecue. From basketball to tennis, footy to golf, everyone has an opinion. And truthfully, greatness isn’t defined by stats alone — it’s about legacy, consistency, influence, and the ability to lift the game to new heights.
Let’s take a look at some of the sporting GOATs who’ve changed the game forever.
🏀 Basketball – Michael Jordan
Six championships. Five MVPs. A relentless drive that turned basketball into global entertainment. Michael Jordan didn’t just dominate — he defined the modern athlete. Every time someone shouts “MJ!” mid-jump shot, it’s proof his legacy still soars.
Honourable mentions: LeBron James for longevity and all-round dominance, and Kobe Bryant for his Mamba Mentality that inspired a generation.
🎾 Tennis – Serena Williams
With 23 Grand Slam singles titles, Serena Williams redefined what power, resilience, and excellence look like in tennis. She broke barriers, smashed records, and did it all with heart. Her influence goes far beyond the baseline — she’s a cultural and sporting icon.
Also in the conversation: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic — a golden era of greatness.
⚽ Football – Lionel Messi
From a young prodigy in Rosario to a World Cup champion, Lionel Messi has mesmerised fans with artistry and precision for nearly two decades. He plays like the ball was made just for him — calm, creative, and clutch.
Other legends: Cristiano Ronaldo for unmatched work ethic and numbers, and Pelé — the original GOAT.
🏈 AFL – Leigh Matthews
The AFL’s own GOAT conversation often points to Leigh Matthews — unstoppable as a player and just as brilliant as a coach. Known as “Lethal Leigh,” he combined skill, leadership, and toughness in a way that shaped generations.
⛳ Golf – Tiger Woods
At his peak, Tiger Woods didn’t just dominate — he transformed golf. His mental strength, fitness, and flair brought a new audience to the sport. Even after setbacks, his 2019 Masters win proved that greatness can’t be counted out.
🏏 Cricket – Sir Donald Bradman
A batting average of 99.94. Enough said. Bradman’s records have stood for generations — a true sporting phenomenon who made perfection look possible.
🐐 So, What Makes Someone a GOAT?
It’s not just trophies or titles — it’s influence. The GOATs shift culture, redefine performance, and inspire those who follow. They make the impossible look easy and set new benchmarks for what’s achievable.
At The Sporting Goat, we celebrate greatness in all forms — whether it’s the legends on the world stage or the next-gen GOATs practising on our courts in their own backyards.
Because greatness starts somewhere. Often, right at home.
