In a groundbreaking move, Caitlin Clark has officially dethroned Angel Reese in the race for the most influential female athlete, according to a new list that has got the sports world buzzing. But, perhaps even more shocking than Clark’s rise to the top is the controversy surrounding Simone Biles’ absence from the list — a glaring oversight that has many fans scratching their heads.

So, how did we get here, and what does this list really say about the shifting dynamics of female sports? Let’s break it down.

Caitlin Clark’s Meteoric Rise

Caitlin Clark’s rise to the top of the Most Influential Female Athletes list is a testament to the impact she’s had on women’s basketball, sports culture, and society at large. The Iowa star, known for her dazzling shooting range, playmaking ability, and electric personality, took the basketball world by storm in 2023. But it’s not just her on-court skills that have made her a global sensation.

Clark’s influence goes far beyond the hardwood. From her social media presence to her advocacy for women’s sports, she has proven that she’s more than just an athlete — she’s a true cultural force. Her viral performances during March Madness, including a record-breaking 54-point game in the NCAA Tournament, not only catapulted Iowa to the national spotlight but also showed the world that women’s sports could generate the kind of buzz typically reserved for their male counterparts.

Off the court, Clark has been vocal about issues like gender equity in sports and the need for more visibility and investment in women’s athletics. She’s used her platform to challenge norms, push for change, and inspire young athletes across the globe. With endorsements, a growing fanbase, and a spotlight that continues to shine brighter, Caitlin Clark’s place at the top of this list is hard-earned.

Angel Reese: The “Bayou Barbie” Still Dominating

While Angel Reese may have fallen short in this particular ranking, make no mistake — she remains one of the most powerful and influential athletes in her own right. Reese’s victory with LSU in the 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, capped by her iconic “you can’t see me” gesture aimed at Caitlin Clark, made her an instant household name. And while Clark might have won the crown for the most influential athlete, Reese has solidified herself as a force in the world of women’s sports, known for her passion, personality, and unapologetic confidence.

Reese’s brash and bold attitude has attracted both praise and criticism, but what’s undeniable is her ability to command attention and turn that spotlight into a platform for change. Whether it’s through her social media following or her advocacy for women’s rights and social justice, Reese continues to use her position to fight for representation, equity, and respect for female athletes.

However, in this particular list, it seems that Clark’s overall influence on the sport — both from an athletic and cultural standpoint — has propelled her into the number one spot. It’s not a knock on Reese’s impact, but rather a reflection of the incredible strides Clark has made in capturing the hearts of sports fans nationwide.

Simone Biles: ROBBED of the Top Spot?

And here’s where the debate gets heated. Simone Biles — often regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time — has been noticeably absent from the top ranks of this influential list. For those who’ve followed Biles’ career, her omission is puzzling, if not outright infuriating.

Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, has had an unparalleled career marked by her courage, resilience, and dedication to mental health advocacy. She dominated the gymnastics world for nearly a decade, winning multiple Olympic gold medals and world championships. Her impact on the sport of gymnastics, and women’s sports in general, cannot be overstated.

However, it’s not just her athletic prowess that makes Biles influential. In 2021, she made the brave decision to withdraw from several Olympic events in order to prioritize her mental health, setting a precedent for athletes across all sports. Her decision to openly discuss the pressures of elite competition and advocate for better mental health support within the sports world earned her praise from fans, fellow athletes, and even non-sports enthusiasts alike.

So, how did Simone Biles — a true trailblazer in sports and beyond — not make it to the top of the influential athletes list? Her exclusion has sparked outrage among fans and commentators, many of whom believe that Biles’ influence on not just the gymnastics community but the global sports conversation should have placed her at the forefront of this list.

It seems that while Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are currently dominating the headlines, Biles’ legacy and contributions to sports culture remain timeless and significant. There’s no denying that her absence from the list raises questions about how we measure influence and the recognition of athletes who have paved the way for the next generation.

The Larger Conversation: What Does “Influence” Really Mean?

The controversy surrounding this list isn’t just about the rankings — it’s about what we define as influence in the world of sports. Sure, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are currently generating a lot of buzz and headlines. But what about athletes like Simone Biles, who have shaped the landscape of their respective sports for years?

When we talk about “influence,” we need to think beyond social media likes and viral moments. True influence is about breaking barriers, challenging expectations, and inspiring entire generations of athletes and fans. By this metric, Simone Biles’ impact should arguably have secured her a spot at the very top of the list, not just because of her athletic achievements, but because of the way she’s reshaped how we view the pressures on elite athletes.

Caitlin Clark’s rise is undeniably exciting, and she’s certainly making waves. Angel Reese continues to build her brand and solidify her position as a leader in women’s basketball. But let’s not forget the giants on whose shoulders they stand, like Simone Biles, who have paved the way for these athletes to thrive in the first place.

Conclusion: A Shifting Landscape

Ultimately, the ranking of Caitlin Clark as the most influential female athlete may be a reflection of the current moment — a moment where basketball is taking center stage, where the next generation of female athletes is making their mark, and where the conversation around women’s sports is finally being given the attention it deserves.

But let’s not overlook the pioneers who’ve already blazed the trail, like Simone Biles. While she may not have topped this list, her influence remains undeniable, and history will continue to recognize her as one of the most important athletes of our time. And as for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, their journey is just beginning — and their influence is only set to grow.

In the end, it’s not just about who’s at the top of a list; it’s about how each of these athletes, in their own way, is changing the game for future generations of women in sports.