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Sports Illustrated's 2025 Power List: The 50 Most Influential Figures in Sports

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, September 18th 2025 at 11:13 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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SI’s 2025 Power List: The 50 Most Influential Figures Shaping Modern Sports

Every August, Sports Illustrated releases its annual “Power List,” a carefully curated ranking of the people who are doing the most to shape the culture, business, and future of sports. The 2025 edition, which debuted online last week, is a sweeping look at the people whose reach extends beyond the arena, stadium, or court. From record‑breaking athletes to visionary executives, from media moguls to social activists, the list offers a panoramic snapshot of the forces that are driving the industry today.

The Top Tier: Iconic Athletes

At the summit of the Power List sit a handful of athletes whose on‑court excellence is matched by off‑court influence. LeBron James, the Lakers star, remains the number one figure, thanks to his multi‑year championship run, high‑profile brand deals, and his vocal activism on social justice. The article notes how James has used his platform to launch a media company, expand his philanthropic network, and push for a more equitable distribution of revenue in the NBA.

Stephen Curry and Giannis Antetokounmpo occupy the next two slots. Curry’s global marketing machine—particularly his “Dunk for Life” initiatives—has turned him into a household name beyond basketball, while Giannis’s partnership with Nike and his outspoken stance on mental health have made him a global ambassador for the sport.

The list also crowns NFL star Patrick Mahomes as a leader in the next generation of quarterbacks, citing his influence on the NFL’s brand expansion into new markets and his work with youth academies across the United States.

Rising Stars and Emerging Icons

Moving down the list, the article highlights a cohort of younger athletes whose meteoric rises signal a shift in power dynamics. Naomi Osaka, for example, has redefined the role of a tennis player as a global influencer. Her work on mental health advocacy and her entrepreneurial ventures—including her own beauty line—have positioned her as a business mogul beyond the baseline.

Another standout is soccer phenom Erling Haaland, whose transfer to Manchester City has reshaped European club economics and has set a new standard for player marketing in the sport. Haaland’s engagement with streaming platforms and his ability to command high-value endorsement deals are underscored as key factors for his inclusion.

The list also spotlights mixed‑martial arts star Amanda Nunes, who has used her platform to champion gender equity in combat sports and to advocate for policy changes regarding athlete safety.

Executives and Business Leaders

While athletes dominate the headlines, the 2025 Power List shines a bright light on the executives steering the sports economy. Mark Cuban, the Mavericks owner, tops the executive section. His bold investments in esports, his public commentary on player wages, and his role in launching the NBA’s “The U” youth league are cited as reasons for his high ranking.

Joe Buck, the long‑time broadcaster for the World Series, is recognized for redefining sports broadcasting. His pivot to streaming and his advocacy for younger, more diverse talent in on‑air roles have made him a pivotal figure in media innovation.

Another key player is John Hollinger, former NBA executive and head of the league’s analytics department. Hollinger’s work on data-driven player evaluation has transformed how teams approach drafting and player development, cementing his status as an invisible yet powerful force behind the scenes.

Media Moguls and Influencers

The article takes an extensive look at the people who shape sports narratives. Tom Brady, the Patriots legend, is praised not only for his record‑tying performance but also for his role in establishing a new era of athlete ownership of content. Brady’s partnership with the “Brady Brand” and his recent foray into podcasting is highlighted as a model for athlete‑led media.

In a separate section, the list celebrates the rise of influencer culture within sports. The likes of TikTok sensation “The Sports Guy” and Instagram fitness coach “FitFam Pro” are credited with redefining how fans interact with athletes and how brands engage with younger audiences.

Social Activists and Humanitarians

Perhaps the most compelling part of the 2025 Power List is its acknowledgment of athletes and executives who leverage their platform for social change. Serena Williams, who is no longer active but still a major figure in tennis, leads the activism section. Her continued advocacy for gender equality, her legal battle against the USTA, and her involvement with the “Sisterhood” foundation are celebrated.

The list also features NFL player Jalen Ramsey, who has become a vocal advocate for the Black Lives Matter movement, and the newly minted owner of the Los Angeles Chargers, who announced a $10 million grant to community youth programs. These individuals illustrate how power in sports is increasingly measured by social impact as much as by championship rings.

What the List Reveals About the Future of Sports

Beyond simply ranking the most influential, the article uses the Power List as a lens to examine larger trends. One clear takeaway is the blurred line between athlete, entrepreneur, and activist. The most powerful figures today are those who own their brand, command media rights, and drive social change.

Another trend is the surge in cross‑sport collaborations, with athletes branching into music, film, and technology. This diversification reflects the increasingly multimillion‑dollar ecosystems that sports now inhabit.

Finally, the list underscores the importance of diversity. Women occupy more than a quarter of the top 50, a leap from previous years. This shift signals growing recognition of the influence women wield in shaping sports culture and economics.

Where to Go Next

For those looking to dive deeper into the careers of these power players, the article links to a range of supplementary pieces. There are detailed profiles of each athlete’s social media strategies, executive interviews on the future of sports broadcasting, and case studies of brand‑athlete partnerships that are redefining sponsorship models.

Whether you’re a sports fan, a business professional, or a social activist, the 2025 Power List offers a roadmap to the individuals who are steering the next wave of sports innovation. In a world where revenue streams are diversifying and social impact is becoming a new metric of success, the list provides a clear snapshot of the people whose influence will shape the narrative for years to come.