There are many inspiring athletes, but some of them go beyond the sports field. These athletes use their platform to help create social change. In this article, we'll look at a few of them, including Michael Phelps, Serena Williams, Brittany Griner, and Mary Keitany. These athletes inspire us as we take action to become better people.
Michael Phelps
Michael Phelps is a great athlete. Phelps began his career as a teenager and has since won 28 Olympic medals, four Olympic Games golds, and 39 world records. Phelps was also a survivor of depression. He has since been an advocate for mental and emotional well-being. Phelps recently produced "The Weight of Gold," a HBO Sports documentary. Interviews with Olympians Greg Louganis (who is widely regarded as the greatest diver) are included in the film.
Serena Williams
Serena Williams has had a tremendous impact on the tennis world and has inspired many other athletes. She has a powerful voice which has been used for helping those in crisis. She has helped to create schools for underprivileged children, and championed healthcare for women and infants. She is also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Brittany Griner
For many athletes, Brittany Griner's story is one of inspiration. Griner was bullied at school and once was called "a man". Griner thought about slitting the wrists to get rid of her feeling of being an outsider. Despite the negative comments, Griner persevered and became an Olympic gold medalist.
Mary Keitany
Keitany won TCS New York Marathon the year 2018. After the race she knew she would win New York City Marathon in 2019. She was motivated to win for her family and show her pride in them. Keitany was able achieve this despite the challenges that she faced after giving birth her first child.
Michael Oher
Michael Oher was an early nomad. He and his siblings were removed from their mother's home by child services at the tail end the first grade. They bounced between foster homes and friends' couches.
Althea Gibbons
Althea is an inspiring figure for athletes of all ages. Her birth was in Silver, South Carolina, in 1927. In her lifetime she fought against racism in her hometown and in sports. As a result, she became the best female player in the world and the first black woman to win a Wimbledon championship.