British sportswomen have continuously made history, excelling across numerous disciplines and representing their country on the world stage. Their contributions have not only reshaped the landscape of women’s sports but also inspired future generations. From the trailblazers of the past to modern-day legends, the legacy of these athletes speaks to the power of dedication, perseverance, and talent. Below is a celebration of the ten greatest British sportswomen who have left an indelible mark on the world of sport.

1. Charlotte Cooper – Tennis
As one of the earliest pioneers in British women’s sport, Charlotte Cooper made history as the first woman to win an Olympic gold medal in tennis at the 1900 Paris Games. A five-time Wimbledon singles champion, she is undoubtedly one of the greatest British sportswomen of the early 20th century.
- First woman to win an Olympic gold medal in tennis.
- Five-time Wimbledon champion.
- A pioneer among the greatest British sportswomen of her era.

2. Dame Mary Peters – Athletics
A trailblazer in athletics, Dame Mary Peters captured the pentathlon gold medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics. Her victory secured her place among the greatest British sportswomen, and her legacy continues through her advocacy for young athletes.
- 1972 Olympic pentathlon gold medallist.
- British sports ambassador and role model.
- A powerful advocate for youth athletics, elevating her standing as one of the greatest British sportswomen.

3. Dame Ellen MacArthur – Sailing
Dame Ellen MacArthur made headlines around the world when she broke the world record for the fastest solo circumnavigation of the globe in 2005. Her extraordinary endurance and determination make her one of the greatest British sportswomen in sailing history.
- Fastest solo sailor to circumnavigate the globe in 2005.
- Twice crowned World Sailor of the Year.
- Among the greatest British sportswomen, thanks to her remarkable sailing achievements.

4. Jayne Torvill – Ice Skating
Jayne Torvill, along with her partner Christopher Dean, captured the hearts of millions with their perfect-score performance of Boléro at the 1984 Sarajevo Winter Olympics. As one of the greatest British sportswomen in figure skating, Torvill’s legacy continues to inspire young athletes today.
- 1984 Olympic gold medallist in ice dancing.
- Iconic Boléro routine that defined her career.
- A true icon among the greatest British sportswomen in ice sports.

5. Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson – Paralympic Athletics
Tanni Grey-Thompson stands as one of the most decorated Paralympic athletes in history, with 11 gold medals to her name. Her incredible success across five Paralympic Games makes her one of the greatest British sportswomen and a leading figure in Paralympic sport.
- 11-time Paralympic gold medallist.
- One of the most successful wheelchair racers in history.
- A tireless advocate for disability rights, solidifying her place among the greatest British sportswomen.

6. Dame Kelly Holmes – Athletics
Dame Kelly Holmes became a national hero when she won double gold in the 800m and 1500m events at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Overcoming numerous injuries throughout her career, Holmes remains one of the greatest British sportswomen of all time.
- Double Olympic gold medallist at Athens 2004.
- Inspirational role model for overcoming adversity.
- One of the greatest British sportswomen in track and field history.

7. Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill – Athletics
As the face of the 2012 London Olympics, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill captivated the nation by winning gold in the heptathlon. Her poise under pressure and dominance in her event secured her a permanent place among the greatest British sportswomen.
- 2012 Olympic heptathlon gold medallist.
- World champion in heptathlon in 2009 and 2015.
- One of the greatest British sportswomen of her generation.

8. Lucy Bronze – Football
As one of the finest footballers the UK has ever produced, Lucy Bronze has established herself as a key figure in British and global women’s football. A central player in England’s success at the 2022 UEFA Women’s Euro and a Champions League winner with Lyon, she has helped elevate the profile of the sport and stands among the greatest British sportswomen.
- UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 winner with England.
- Three-time UEFA Champions League winner.
- First British woman to win FIFA Best Women’s Player award in 2020.

9. Dame Laura Kenny – Cycling
Dame Laura Kenny, Britain’s most successful female Olympian, has dominated the track cycling scene with five Olympic gold medals. Her versatility and consistency make her one of the greatest British sportswomen, especially in cycling.
- Five-time Olympic gold medallist in track cycling.
- Multiple world champion in team pursuit and omnium.
- One of the greatest British sportswomen of the modern era.

10. Lottie Dod – Tennis, Archery, Golf
Often described as one of the most versatile athletes of all time, Lottie Dod became Wimbledon champion at just 15 years old, and also excelled in archery and golf. Her multi-sport success ranks her among the greatest British sportswomen across various disciplines.
- Youngest-ever Wimbledon champion at age 15.
- Olympic silver medallist in archery at the 1908 Games.
- Competed at a high level in multiple sports, including golf and hockey.
Greatest British Sportswomen
The greatest British sportswomen have left an indelible mark on the history of sport, showcasing extraordinary talent, resilience, and determination. Whether on the football pitch, track, or ice rink, their legacies have inspired countless individuals and reshaped the landscape of women’s sports. Their stories serve as a reminder of the incredible potential that British sportswomen hold, and their achievements will continue to inspire future generations.
Spond: Doing Our Bit for the Great British Sportswomen of the Future
Spond is proud to support the sportswomen of the future, from grassroots to the professional level. By providing tools that help teams and clubs manage their activities, raise funds, and engage their communities, Spond empowers female athletes to reach their full potential. Whether it’s organising fixtures or streamlining payments, Spond is dedicated to helping the next generation of greatest British sportswomen achieve their dreams.
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