If you're looking to find a role model for females, this is the right place. We've already talked about Michelle Kwan, Ronda Rusey, Serena Williams and others, but there's more to these famous female athletes. Read on to find out more about these four inspiring women. You'll also find out about the challenges they've faced along the way. And you'll learn about the importance of teamwork.
Serena Williams
Serena Jameka Williams is an American professional tennis player. For 319 weeks, she held the number one spot in singles tennis. She also held that position for 186 consecutive weeks. In five of those years, she was the year-end number one. 1. This record is unprecedented. Williams won the Olympic gold medal in tennis and the World Paralympic medal silver. Williams is a great role model for others, and she has numerous achievements.
Ronda Rousey
Ronda Rousey is an American mixed martial artist and UFC women's bantamweight champion. She was the first woman to join the UFC, and she won the inaugural Bantamweight Championship in 2012. She had previously competed in judo, where she won an Olympic bronze medal. Rousey was named the "Best Female Athlete" by the ESPY in 2015. She is also an endorsed athlete, having fought for Reebok, Buffalo Jeans, and Pantene hair care products.
Brandi Chastain
Brandi Chastain, if you are familiar with women's hockey, is probably someone you have heard of. In 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup final she scored the winning penalty shootout goal against China. Her infamous goal, which ripped off her shirt, changed the course of women's soccer forever. This famous athlete talked to 2aDays on her mental health and the recruiting process.
Michelle Kwan
The United States figure skating team was formed in 1996. Kwan was qualified but had to withdraw from the team due to injury. After qualifying for the 2006 Olympics, Kwan withdrew from the team due to injury. Kwan was able to return to school in 2007 to complete a master's program at Tufts University. Kwan is a champion for the environment and sports.
Ann Meyers Drysdale
Ann Meyers Drysdale was a former basketball star who is now one of the most popular women in sports. She was born in San Diego at 5'9", and was a pioneer in the sport. She still plays basketball, 35 years after she retired. She is currently vice president of WNBA's Phoenix Mercury, and color analyst for NBA's Phoenix Suns.
Janet Evans
The first American woman to win four individual Olympic gold medals, Janet Evans started swimming at an early age and set several world records. She was the best female distance swimmer in the 1980s and 90s and won three medals at Seoul Olympic Games. In 1988, she became the first woman to break the 16-minute barrier in the 1,500-metre freestyle. Her time would have earned them a medal in the 1968 Olympics men's race. In 1989, she was awarded the Sullivan Award for being a top amateur athlete.