Who tops the list of Most Popular Athletes from Canada?
From ice hockey rinks to soccer fields, which Canadian athletes shine brightest?
Discover the most popular athletes hailing from Canada and learn how they’ve influenced and elevated their respective sports.
Also check out our post about the most popular soccer players from Canada.
Most popular athletes from Canada:
- Wayne Gretzky
- Steve Nash
- Christine Sinclair
- Sidney Crosby
- Georges St-Pierre
- Andre De Grasse
- Brooke Henderson
- Donovan Bailey
- Hayley Wickenheiser
- Daniel Nestor
- Rosie MacLennan
- Joannie Rochette
- Eugenie Bouchard
Table of Contents
#1 Wayne Gretzky
- 🏆 Sport(s): Ice Hockey
- 🎂 Born in: 1961
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 4 Stanley Cup Championships
Wayne Gretzky, widely regarded as the greatest ice hockey player of all time, has left a lasting impact on the sport. His phenomenal skills and exceptional vision helped redefine the game and inspired countless players and fans.
Known as “The Great One,” Gretzky’s numerous records and philanthropic activities continue to cement his legendary status both on and off the ice.
#2 Steve Nash
- 🏆 Sport(s): Basketball
- 🎂 Born in: 1974
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2-time NBA MVP
Steve Nash, one of the most accomplished basketball players from Canada, set new standards in the NBA with his incredible playmaking and court vision. He is widely respected for his leadership, unselfish play and commitment to the game.
Off the court, Nash is known for his charity work and his passion for soccer, further cementing his status as one of Canada’s most prominent athletes.
#3 Christine Sinclair
- 🏆 Sport(s): Soccer
- 🎂 Born in: 1983
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: All-time Leading International Goal Scorer
Christine Sinclair, widely regarded as one of the greatest female soccer players, is an incredible leader on and off the field. Her scoring records, combined with her dedication to the sport, have helped popularize women’s soccer in Canada and beyond.
Throughout her career, Sinclair has consistently demonstrated sportsmanship and commitment to her team, serving as a role model not only for aspiring soccer players but also for all Canadian athletes.
#4 Sidney Crosby
- 🏆 Sport(s): Ice Hockey
- 🎂 Born in: 1987
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 3 Stanley Cup Championships
Sidney Crosby, often referred to as “Sid the Kid,” is one of the most talented and accomplished ice hockey players of his generation. His exceptional skills, hockey IQ, and leadership abilities have earned him numerous awards and accolades.
Off the ice, Crosby is known for his community involvement, modesty, and genuine love for the sport, endearing him to fans and fellow players alike.
#5 Georges St-Pierre
- 🏆 Sport(s): Mixed Martial Arts
- 🎂 Born in: 1981
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2-time UFC Welterweight Champion
Georges St-Pierre, often referred to as “GSP,” is one of the most dominating and successful mixed martial artists of all time. His well-rounded skillset, unparalleled athleticism, and tactical precision have earned him immense respect from fans and fellow fighters alike.
Off the mat, GSP is known for his sportsmanship, humility, and commitment to fitness, philanthropy, and personal growth.
#6 Andre De Grasse
- 🏆 Sport(s): Track and Field
- 🎂 Born in: 1994
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Olympic Gold Medalist in the 200-meter race
Andre De Grasse, a rising star in the world of athletics, has quickly established himself as one of Canada’s most talented sprinters. His incredible speed, determination, and work ethic have earned him multiple Olympic and World Championship medals.
Off the track, De Grasse’s positive attitude and commitment to giving back to his community through his foundation make him an exemplarary role model for aspiring athletes.
#7 Brooke Henderson
- 🏆 Sport(s): Golf
- 🎂 Born in: 1997
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2016 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship Winner
Brooke Henderson has rapidly emerged as one of the world’s top female golfers, showcasing exceptional skill and determination on the course. Her numerous victories, including a major championship, have solidified her place as one of Canada’s most accomplished athletes in the sport.
Off the course, her humble nature, commitment to growing the game, and passion for supporting local charities only add to her popularity among golf fans.
#8 Donovan Bailey
- 🏆 Sport(s): Track and Field
- 🎂 Born in: 1967
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist in the 100-meter race
Donovan Bailey, one of Canada’s most celebrated sprinters, solidified his place in the history books with his world-record-breaking performance in the 100 meters at the 1996 Olympics. His sheer speed and explosiveness left a lasting impact on the world of athletics.
Off the track, Bailey’s charismatic personality and commitment to charity work have made him a respected and beloved figure among sports fans.
#9 Hayley Wickenheiser
- 🏆 Sport(s): Ice Hockey
- 🎂 Born in: 1978
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 4 Olympic Gold Medals
Hayley Wickenheiser, regarded as one of the greatest female ice hockey players of all time, has been a trailblazer for women’s hockey in Canada and around the world. Her incredible skill, determination, and leadership have earned her numerous accolades and records.
Off the ice, Wickenheiser’s advocacy for women’s sports and dedication to community service have made her an influential and respected figure in Canadian sports.
#10 Daniel Nestor
- 🏆 Sport(s): Tennis
- 🎂 Born in: 1972
- 🥇 Biggest Achievements: 12 Grand Slam Doubles Titles
Daniel Nestor, one of Canada’s most accomplished tennis players, has left a remarkable legacy in men’s doubles. His skill, on-court chemistry with partners, and longevity in the sport brought him success at the highest levels in tennis.
Off the court, Nestor’s philanthropic work and sportsmanship have made him a respected and admired figure in Canadian sports.
#11 Rosie MacLennan
- 🏆 Sport(s): Trampoline Gymnastics
- 🎂 Born in: 1988
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2 Olympic Gold Medals
Rosie MacLennan is a shining star in the world of trampoline gymnastics, with back-to-back Olympic gold medals to her name. Her incredible skill, grace, and determination have made her a true ambassador for her sport.
Off the trampoline, MacLennan’s positive attitude, advocacy for healthy living, and charitable work make her an inspiring role model for aspiring athletes and fellow Canadians.
#12 Joannie Rochette
- 🏆 Sport(s): Figure Skating
- 🎂 Born in: 1986
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2010 Olympic Bronze Medalist
Joannie Rochette is one of Canada’s most beloved figure skaters. Her mesmerizing performances on the ice, highlighted by her emotional and inspiring Olympic bronze medal-winning performance in 2010, have left a lasting impact on figure skating fans.
Off the ice, Rochette’s dedication to promoting health, wellness, and community involvement make her an inspirational and beloved figure in Canadian sports.
#13 Eugenie Bouchard
- 🏆 Sport(s): Tennis
- 🎂 Born in: 1994
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2014 Wimbledon Finalist
Eugenie Bouchard, one of Canada’s most talented tennis players, burst onto the scene with her stellar performances in 2014, when she reached the finals of Wimbledon. Her aggressive play, combined with her fighting spirit, have made her a fan favorite among tennis enthusiasts.
Off the court, Bouchard’s charitable endeavors and connection to her fans have only added to her popularity and impact on the Canadian sports scene.
FAQ
Who is the greatest athlete in the history of Canada?
Hockey player Wayne Gretzky is considered the greatest athlete in the history of Canada.
Who is the most popular female athlete from Canada?
Tennis player Bianca Andreescu is currently the most popular female athlete from Canada.
Which sport produces the most popular athletes from Canada?
Ice Hockey produces many of Canada’s most popular athletes.
Which athlete from Canada is most popular internationally?
Hockey player Wayne Gretzky is arguably the most internationally recognized athlete from Canada.
