Speed is one of the most sought-after qualities in athletics. Athletes spend years training to improve their speed, and those who are able to achieve top speeds often become the most successful in their respective sports.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the fastest athletes in the world, ranked by speed. From sprinters to soccer players, we’ll highlight the top performers and the records they’ve set.
1. Usain Bolt – 27.8 mph
It’s no surprise that Usain Bolt holds the top spot on our list. The Jamaican sprinter has won nine Olympic gold medals and set multiple world records. In 2009, he set the world record for the 100m with a time of 9.58 seconds and a top speed of 27.8 mph.
2. Florence Griffith-Joyner – 22.4 mph
Known as Flo Jo, Griffith-Joyner set the women’s world record for the 100m in 1988 with a time of 10.49 seconds and a top speed of 22.4 mph. The American sprinter won three gold medals at the 1988 Olympics and is considered one of the greatest female athletes of all time.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo – 21.8 mph
Portuguese soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo is known for his impressive speed on the field. In 2013, he set the world record for the fastest soccer player with a top speed of 21.8 mph. Ronaldo has won numerous awards throughout his career and is considered one of the best soccer players of all time.
4. Maurice Greene – 26.7 mph
American sprinter Maurice Greene won two Olympic gold medals and set multiple world records during his career. In 1999, he set the world record for the 100m with a time of 9.79 seconds and a top speed of 26.7 mph.
5. Allyson Felix – 21.7 mph
American sprinter Allyson Felix has won nine Olympic medals and set multiple world records. In 2012, she set the world record for the 200m with a time of 21.69 seconds and a top speed of 21.7 mph.
6. Leroy Burrell – 27.4 mph
Another American sprinter, Leroy Burrell, set the world record for the 100m in 1991 with a time of 9.90 seconds and a top speed of 27.4 mph. Burrell won a gold medal at the 1992 Olympics and set multiple world records throughout his career.
7. Carlin Isles – 22.5 mph
American rugby player Carlin Isles is known for his incredible speed on the field. In 2012, he was named the “fastest man in rugby” with a top speed of 22.5 mph. Isles has won numerous awards and has become a fan favorite for his impressive skills.
8. Tyson Gay – 26.8 mph
American sprinter Tyson Gay has won multiple Olympic medals and set world records during his career. In 2009, he set the American record for the 100m with a time of 9.71 seconds and a top speed of 26.8 mph.
9. Christophe Lemaitre – 25 mph
French sprinter Christophe Lemaitre has won multiple Olympic medals and set numerous European records. In 2010, he set the European record for the 100m with a time of 9.98 seconds and a top speed of 25 mph.
10. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce – 22.2 mph
Jamaican sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has won multiple Olympic gold medals and set numerous world records. In 2012, she set the Jamaican record for the 100m with a time of 10.70 seconds and a top speed of 22.2 mph.
Overall, these athletes have achieved incredible speeds and set impressive records. Their dedication and hard work have paid off, making them some of the most successful and celebrated athletes in the world.
