African Athletes Making Global Impact in 2025

African athletes are changing the globe like never before, from Olympic gold medallists to world records and Champions League legends. Whether it's blazing down the track, taking centre stage in football stadiums, or dominating basketball courts, these players are not just representing their countries—they're representing a continent on the rise.

This article examines African athletes from all angles whose skill, perseverance, and discipline have propelled them to the international arena. One record, goal, and slam dunk at a time, these trailblazers are changing history.

Football: Africa’s Biggest Export

Without football, no discussion on African athletes having an impact on the world would be complete. African football players are increasingly important members of elite teams in Europe and abroad.

Notable Names

1. Mohamed Salah (Egypt)

 Mohamed Salah

Already considered an African legend, Salah has made his mark in the world of football, including winning the UEFA Champions League and Premier League with Liverpool. 

He has made an impact in other clubs like Chelsea and Roma. Mohamed Salah has also won the African Player of the Year twice.

2. Sadio Mané (Senegal)

Sadio Mané

A legend on and off the pitch, he is currently thriving in the Saudi Pro League. While playing alongside Mohamed Salah in Liverpool, Mané won the UEFA Champions League and Premier League trophies.

The winger is the recipient of two African Player of the Year awards and also led Senegal to winning the AFCON in 2021, defeating Salah’s Egypt.

3. Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)

Victor Osimhen

Osimhen, a world-class finisher, was instrumental to Napoli’s Serie A title win in the 2022-2023 season after over 30 years. He was Serie A’s top scorer in the same year and was named the African Footballer of the Year by CAF in 2023.

Currently on loan at Galatasaray, the 26-year-old striker still has a whole career ahead of him.

4. Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)

 Achraf Hakimi 

Morocco advanced to the 2022 World Cup semifinals with the aid of PSG's wing-back. Currently in the semifinals of the Champions League, Hakimi will be aiming to lift the prestigious trophy.

These athletes are praised for their leadership, generosity, and widespread popularity in addition to their goals and assists.

Athletics: Dominating the Track and Field

Faith Kipyegon

For many years, African runners have led the world in athletics, particularly in long-distance running.

Top Achievers:

Eliud Kipchoge

Eliud Kipchoge (Kenya) – The first human to run a marathon in under two hours.

Faith Kipyegon (Kenya) – Double Olympic gold medalist and multiple world record holder.

Caster Semenya (South Africa) – A two-time Olympic champion whose journey sparked global debates on gender and sport.

Letesenbet Gidey (Ethiopia) – Holder of the 10,000m and half marathon world records.

Africa's position in international athletics has been solidified by their domination on the track, where they frequently serve as the main draw at competitions like the Olympics and World Championships.

Basketball: Africa's Rising Stars in the NBA

Pascal Siakam 

A new generation of African basketball players is emerging as a result of programs like NBA Africa and the Basketball Africa League (BAL).

African Stars in the NBA:

Joel Embiid

Joel Embiid (Cameroon) – MVP-winning centre for the Philadelphia 76ers.

Pascal Siakam (Cameroon) – NBA champion and All-Star.

Giannis Antetokounmpo (Nigeria/Greece) – While raised in Greece, his Nigerian roots run deep; a two-time NBA MVP and global ambassador of African excellence.

More scouts are investing in grassroots development in Africa, which is now regarded as a significant talent pool for basketball worldwide.

Combat Sports and MMA: Africa’s Powerhouse Fighters

Francis Ngannou

African combat athletes are rapidly becoming more popular worldwide, particularly in boxing and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).

Heavy Hitters:

Israel Adesanya 

Francis Ngannou (Cameroon) – Former UFC heavyweight champion, now signed with PFL and even boxed Tyson Fury.

Israel Adesanya (Nigeria/New Zealand) – One of UFC’s most charismatic champions.

Kamaru Usman (Nigeria) – Former UFC welterweight champion with a dominant reign.

Due to their widespread popularity and impressive accomplishments, they have become emblems of African ambition, tenacity, and strength.

Tennis and Golf: New Frontiers for African Excellence

Ons Jabeur 

African athletes have not traditionally dominated tennis or golf, but new heroes are starting to emerge in these sports.

Names to Watch:

Kevin Anderson
Ons Jabeur (Tunisia) – The first Arab and African woman to reach a Grand Slam final.

Kevin Anderson (South Africa) – Wimbledon finalist and top-10 ranked ATP player.

Ashun Wu (South Africa) – Making strides on the international golf circuit.

These sportsmen are demonstrating that traditional sports aren't the only avenue for African brilliance.

Cultural Influence and Philanthropy

Many African athletes utilise their platforms for community development and social change in addition to their athletic endeavours.

• Sadio Mané built a hospital and school in his hometown of Bambali.
• Mohamed Salah regularly donates to health and education causes in Egypt.
• Eliud Kipchoge champions environmental sustainability and youth empowerment.

This blend of skill and compassion demonstrates how African sportsmen's influence on the world goes well beyond the pitch or court.