Determining the world’s most famous athlete is a difficult endeavour. There are monumental factors that would undoubtedly skew results, such as geography. If we were to pose the question “Who is the world’s most famous athlete” to a largely North American audience, the results may include LeBron James, Tom Brady, Tiger Woods or Alex Rodriguez. However, if we were to approach a European audience, almost assuredly the answer would be a football player such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, or perhaps a tennis star like Roger Federer.
So for this series, we are going to have a 32-player bracket equally representing 8 sports that we cover at LWOS. Each of the eight sections of the bracket will have four athletes from their respective sport. The first two rounds will determine each sport’s most recognizable name. Subsequent rounds will pit athletes against those from a different sport, with the loser being knocked out until we can declare a winner. At the conclusion of Round 2, each sport will have crowned a winner.
Note: We are NOT looking to determine the best player, but instead the player who is more well known globally.
For a more detailed disclaimer, and to follow along and to cast your votes, follow our page for Determining the World’s Most Popular Athlete.
Tom Brady vs. Joe Montana
Tom Brady – Tom Brady is one of the most well known athletes from the major team-based sports in North America today. Much of his popularity stems from his rise to prominence with the New England Patriots and his many Superbowl rings. His reputation as a “winner” despite not always having the best resources to work with have made him a fan favorite amongst fans. His all-American looks and relationship with Giselle Bundchen have also caused there to be many detractors as well. Tom Brady will go down as arguably the greatest quarterback, not only in his time, but of all-time.
Joe Montana – The mere mention of Joe Montana will undoubtedly make you think “Superbowls”. Along with Jerry Rice, Joe orchestrated some of the best teams of the 80s and 90s. Often overlooked for his physical attributes, many credit his success to his knowledge of the game, and on-field vision, which are second to none. A student of the game, and with many successes in his time in San Fran, Joe Montana has long been considered the benchmark at the quarterback position.
But who is more popular today?
Vote: [poll id=”100″]
Peyton Manning vs. Lawrence Taylor
Peyton Manning – Peyton Manning is easily one of, if not the most gifted athletes in sports. Widely regarded since his days in college, he has been arguably the best football player on the planet. Detractors often comparing him to Tom Brady note the fewer Superbowl rings he possesses, but his individual statistics speak for themselves. His current season with the Broncos has cemented his place amongst the greatest names in sports.
Lawrence Taylor – LT. Lawrence Taylor. One of a few players in football history (other than a quarterback) that was so dominant that he could change the point spread in Las Vegas. Opponents built their offenses around him, doing anything they could to protect their quarterbacks, running backs, and any other player who dared go to his side of the field. While we don’t condone his illegal and often immoral actions, they have kept his name in the public eye years after his retirement. LT may be the game’s greatest defensive player, and his name still resonates.
But who is more popular today?
Vote: [poll id=”101″]
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