Forbes has unveiled its 30 Under 30 Sports list for North America 2025, spotlighting athletes and executives breaking barriers, redefining the sports business landscape, and creating meaningful societal impact. This year’s honourees represent a blend of athletic excellence, innovative thinking, and business savvy, highlighting the growing role of athletes as cultural and economic influencers.
One standout honouree is NBA star Jayson Tatum, who, besides his Boston Celtics championship win, has built a multimillion-dollar brand rooted in authenticity and advocacy, leveraging his platform to address mental health and equity issues.
WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark, a generational talent from Iowa and now with the Indiana Fever, is celebrated for her transformative impact on women’s basketball. Clark’s on-court prowess and marketability have contributed to a surge in the sport’s visibility, with her collegiate performances and first WNBA season drew record-breaking viewership numbers.
Olympic sprinter Gabby Thomas is also on the list, recognised for her achievements in athletics and her vocal advocacy for diversity and inclusivity in sport. Similarly, Hunter Woodhall and Tara Davis-Woodhall are celebrated as a power couple in track and field. Woodhall, a trailblaser in adaptive sports, and Davis-Woodhall, a standout in her discipline, have combined their influence to inspire athletes globally.
Rugby sevens star Ilona Maher has earned her place on the list for her dedication to growing women’s rugby, leveraging her social media presence to build awareness and engage fans. Her work exemplifies the increasing emphasis on digital storytelling in athlete branding.
Beyond individual athletic achievements, Forbes highlights the broader impact these honourees are making across industries. From using their platforms to drive social change to launching entrepreneurial ventures, these athletes are at the forefront of a new era where sport intersects with business, culture, and technology.
The full list of athletes includes:
One thing to note is this year’s list features a significant number of women. Athletes such as Caitlin Clark, Gabby Thomas, Ilona Maher, and the Cavinder twins are not only excelling in their sports but also carving out unique spaces in media, branding, and entrepreneurship. It also reflects shifting dynamics in the industry, where women’s sports are gaining momentum in terms of viewership, investment, and influence.
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