Black Athletes That Made History

In this article, we want to showcase some of the best of the best. Here are Black athletes we think you should know about.

DeAndre Yedlin 

DeAndre Yedlin is a right back for the American team Inter Miami and the United States men’s national soccer team. He is an African American professional soccer player. Yedlin was born in Seattle, Washington, on July 9, 1993. Yedlin played collegiate soccer while attending the University of Akron. He joined the Major League Soccer team Seattle Sounders in 2013 by signing a contract (MLS). MLS Rookie of the Year (2013), two calls to the MLS All-Star teams, and promotion to the Premier League are just a few of his accomplishments. He has won the US Open Cup and the CONCACAF Gold Cup, among other accolades. Yedlin recently participated in the World Cup in Qatar. He aided the Americans in 2013 as they advanced to the Round of 16. 

Lebron Raymone James

Basketball player Lebron James now plays for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was raised by his mother, Gloria Marie James, and was born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio. One of Lebron James’ greatest accomplishments outside of basketball was the founding of the I Promise school because he never forgot his roots (IPS). Opened in 2018, IPS is a public elementary school in Akron, Ohio. Many children and adults throughout the world look up to Lebron James as their hero. “Lebron has become an inspiration to me which is one of the reasons I decided to play for the middle school girls basketball team,” says Giselle Peraza, one of many young people who have been inspired by Lebron. Lebron has become an inspiration to me, which is one of the reasons I chose to play for the middle school ladies basketball team,” Giselle Peraza, one of many young people who have been inspired by Lebron, said. He inspires me to never give up because of his passion for what he does and all the obstacles he had to overcome to be where he is now, she added. He has 38,411 points to his record, making him the all-time leading scorer thanks to his dedication and commitment to the game. Lebron has played for some of the top NBA teams, including the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Los Angeles Lakers at the moment. earning himself four titles, four MVP awards, four finals MVP awards, and two gold medals at the Olympics. 

Jackie Robinson

Jackie Robinson was an American baseball player. He might be the most famous Black Athlete. Many young kids look up to him and he is taught about all over America. Robinson was born in Cairo Georgia and had a rocky start in life. Only being raised by his mother and facing discrimination for his race; it wasn’t easy for him to get to the top. One thing was for sure, Robinson was an excellent athlete and excelled in almost every sport. He played basketball, baseball, track and field, and football and received varsity letters for all of them! In his time, baseball and almost everything was segregated, as a Black person he didn’t get many opportunities. Robinson went on to change the course of history. He earned himself many titles like National League Rookie of the year and Most valuable player. Robinson is important to history because he brought opportunities to aspiring black athletes. Robinson earned Black athletes respect and set a pathway for many legacies to come forth.

Noah Lyles 

Noah Lyles is a young Black American track athlete. He specializes in the 100 and 200m races. Noah is an exceptional athlete and even set the record for the indoor 300m.Being so young, Noah has lots of room for breaking a world record. He has incredible times for both of his specialties; his 200m time being 19:50 and his 100m time being 9.86. He has won a gold medal for America and is on to the Diamond League next! Noah Lyles is a role model to many and aspires young kids to strive for greatness. Aaron Ataklty  says, “ He inspires me to push myself in practice and not let anything get in my way.” 

Micheal Jordan

Michael Jordan has been a star for many decades now and is still special in many hearts. Micheal Jordan changed the world of basketball with his out of the world skill and iconic moments. Not only did he achieve the title of one of the best basketball players but he also went on to partner up with Nike and own the Jordan brand. Micheal Jordan’s hardworking and strong attitude is seen and loved by many. Abdirahman Werfa emphasizes, “ His humbleness and compassion on and off the court or field is most inspirational to me.” This athlete possesses characteristics that are bound to make the future generations successful in every aspect of life. Abdirahman adds, “ I think so many of the black athletes make it easier for me to become great because I feel relatable to them.”

Kylian Mbappe

Mbappe is a french athlete, although he isn’t of American ethnicity, he is an inspiration to many. Kylian has always had the skills it requires to be an exceptional athlete but he was famously recognized in the World Cup 2022. He led the French team to semi-victory with his great leadership skills and admirable skill on the field. He not only gave the French team a great title but he also won the hearts of many. His amazing drive and determination to win lead him to execute special skills. Mohamed Amin Faysel Iman says, “Mpabbe inspires me because he has a selfish nature on the field and does everything it takes to win but he is also a humble and nice person outside the field.” Mbappe’s persona as an athlete but also a person is very admirable. 

Through these sports Black athletes are creating long lasting titles for themselves. They not only make names for themselves but they also give amazing representation to their community. They are outstanding role models for people in and out of the Black community. We should not represent these athletes during this time but appreciate them all year round.