Influence is hard to define, but one knows it when one feels it—and it goes beyond just winning games.
The sports world is shaped by all sorts of power players: dealmakers, cultural icons, leadership figures, and of course, top performers. Some are athletes pushing boundaries, redefining success, and making a huge impact both on and off the field. Others are dominant coaches or Hall of Famers building their legacies.
Then there are the influencers—social media stars, style icons, tastemakers, and opinion leaders—along with business giants who treat the negotiating table like it’s a competitive sport.
Power shifts over time, but as of 2024, Sports Illustrated has named its 50 most influential people and forces in sports with one hockey player making his appearance.
Even though his Edmonton Oilers watched the Florida Panthers hoist the Stanley Cup in June, Edmonton’s Connor McDavid was still the standout of this year’s Finals.