This was published 9 years ago
Sporting icons named world's most influential people
WWOS staff
Time Magazine recognises sport stars
The world's most iconic athletes have been named to Time Magazine's annual list of the world's most influential people.
Headlined by global superstars Tom Brady of the New England Patriots and NBA superstar LeBron James, the list recognises the achievements of UFC champion Conor McGregor, Barcelona striker Neymar and Olympic champion Simone Biles.
However, the list didn't rely solely on athletes and their sporting prowess with Chicago Cubs general manager Theo Epstein included after helping the club break their 108-year drought and San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick given a nod for his social injustice protest during the US national anthem. (All pictures AAP)
Theo Epstein - Chicago Cubs
Chicago Cubs general manager Theo Epstein earned a spot on the Time's leaders list after quickly becoming baseball's curse breaker. Epstein first helped the Red Sox break their 86-year drought before helming one of the great stories of 2016 - the demolition of the Cubs' 108-year curse.
Conor McGregor - UFC champion
Irish MMA fighter Conor McGregor had already revolutionised the octagon with his fast fists and brash mouth but he etched his name in history when he broke the mould - and Eddie Alvarez - and became the first two-division champion in 2016.
Neymar - Barcelona
Barcelona striker Neymar is the new icon of football. The young Brazilian has already formed a terrifying trident with Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi on the field, but thanks to big screen cameos and a global fan base, Neymar is quickly becoming one of sport's most marketable stars.
Tom Brady - New England Patriots
Five Super Bowl rings, four Super Bowl MVP titles, 12 Pro Bowls and two NFL MVP titles - who would argue against New England Patriots quarter Tom Brady being a titan of not only the NFL but the global sporting landscape?
LeBron James - Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers superstar LeBron James finally kept his word. After enduring years of a barren trophy cabinet (one which saw James win two titles in Miami), Cavs fans felt that winning feeling when their Ohio-born messiah returned to spark a 3-1 comeback against the Warriors to win the Larry O'Brien Trophy last year. A truly titanic performance.
Colin Kaepernick - San Francisco 49ers
NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick didn't even need to play a down to make the Time's list - he just took a knee. The 49ers slinger caused controversy when he protested during the US national anthem during a pre-season game. His symbol of social injustice was quickly followed by similar protests around the country.
