The Active Times Reveals ‘AT50’: Earth’s Best Athletes

The Active Times Reveals ‘AT50’: Earth’s Best Athletes

The Active Times just unveiled a new list of the Earth’s 50 Best Athletes (AT50), honoring the top outdoor and endurance athletes in the world. With skills and endeavors as different and diverse as the natural world itself, these individuals are like-minded, individualistic, achievement-oriented athletes dedicated to sports that take years to master, and often dangerous natural challenges to navigate. 

The AT50 recognized top athletes in climbing, mountaineering, skiing, snowboarding, surfing, standup paddle boarding (SUP), kayaking, swimming, cycling, running, triathlon and adventure. This year, 12 athletes returned to the list and 38 newcomers claimed their spots. 

“Since our first AT50 ranking of the world’s best athletes in 2013, we’ve seen so many incredible athletes pushing the boundaries of what the world thought was possible,” said Diana Gerstacker, editor at The Active Times. “We’re thrilled to recognize inspiring individuals who continue to expand on their impressive careers.” 

To compile the AT50, The Active Times reached out to experts in their respective fields for nominations of the best athletes on earth. The nominated athletes received points for high-profile competition wins (where applicable), innovation in their sports, versatility in their career body of work, inherent risk and notoriety. If they appeared on the 2013 list, they received points for remaining a dominant figure in their sport. Although the sports included are extremely different, the variety of metrics used leveled the playing field.

“Clearly, a ranking of this kind means that we’re comparing what’s typically considered incomparable?and there’s sure to be some heated debate,” said Gerstacker. “But the AT50 recognizes those who represent the pinnacle of their sport and longstanding success in it. Together they are a dream team of the best natural athletes in the world.”

Final Ranking