There are many inspiring athletes. But some of them do more than just compete in sports. These athletes make use of their platform to promote 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. As a teenager, he became a professional athlete and won 28 Olympic medals in four Olympic Games. He also holds 39 world records. Phelps has also battled depression, and has since become an advocate for mental health and wellness. Phelps recently produced "The Weight of Gold," a HBO Sports documentary. Interviews with Olympians Greg Louganis and Greg Louganis are also featured in the film. Louganis is widely considered to be the greatest diver of all times.
Serena Williams
Serena Williams was a big influence in the tennis community, inspiring many athletes. Her powerful voice has been used to aid those in need. She has helped build schools for underprivileged children and champion health care for women and newborns. She is also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Brittany Griner
Brittany Griner is an inspiration story for many athletes. Griner was bullied at school and once was called "a man". Griner considered slitting her wrists because she felt like an outcast. Griner endured the criticisms and was awarded an Olympic gold medal.
Mary Keitany
Keitany won TCS New York Marathon 2018 After winning the race, she knew she would win the New York City Marathon in 2019. Her motivation was to win for her children and show them how proud their mom is of them. Keitany achieved this despite the difficulties she experienced after giving birth.
Michael Oher
Michael Oher was an early nomad. Child services took Michael Oher and his siblings out of their mother's house at the end of the first grade. They bounced around from foster homes, to friends' couches.
Althea Gibson
Althea Gibbons is an inspirational figure to young and older athletes. Born in Silver, South Carolina in 1927, Althea Gibson fought against inequalities in her community as well as in sports. As a result she became the most successful female player in the globe and the first woman of color to win a Wimbledon title.