The best athletes in the world in 2023
The year 2023 was impressive for the sports world. From the Balkans to the global stage, athletes like Novak Djokovic and Nikola Jokic have continued to inspire and set new standards. This article sheds light on the extraordinary achievements of the best athletes in the world. and explores why NBA champion Nikola Jokic is not on the top 10 list.
L'Equipe's list of the best athletes in the world
See who has earned a place on L’Equipe’s exclusive list of the best athletes of 2023.
1. Novak Djokovic (Tennis)
This was the year in which Djokovic further cemented his legacy. By winning the French, Australian and US Opens, he became the first man to win each major at least three times. In winning his 24th Grand Slam title, Djokovic also set a Nitto ATP Finals record and ended the year as the ATP No. 1 player for the eighth time.
2. Léon Marchand (Swimming)
Marchand made waves in the swimming world, breaking Michael Phelps’ world record in the 400 IM at the World Championships. He also won three gold medals and set new French and European records, dominating the sport from September 2022 to October 2023.
3. Max Verstappen (Formula 1)
4. Noah Lyles (Athletics)
Lyles shone at the World Athletics Championships with three gold medals in the 100m, 200m and 4x100m relay. He maintained his position as world leader in the 200m for the sixth consecutive year, going undefeated in six 200m finals during the season.
5. Siya Kolisi (Rugby)
Kolisi led South Africa to their fourth Rugby World Cup title, becoming the first South African captain to do so twice. His leadership was crucial both on and off the field, rallying the team and recovering from a serious knee injury to lead the Springboks to victory.
6. Marco Odermatt (Alpine Skiing)
Odermatt’s 2023 brought him his first title at the Audi FIS Downhill World Cup in Wengen, becoming the leader in the Crystal Globe classifications. His win in Wengen was a testament to his fast and skilful skiing, marking his first win in the event after 11 podiums.
7. Johannes Boe (Biathlon)
Boe dominated the 2023 IBU World Cup season, winning the overall title and multiple individual events. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure were key to his success, contributing significantly to Norway’s success in the relay events.
8. Tadej Pogačar (Cycling)
Pogacar’s victory at the 2023 Tour de France cemented his status as a top-class cyclist. His victories in one-day races and stage races throughout the year highlighted his versatility and aggressive riding style.
9. Mathieu van der Poel (Cycling)
Van der Poel triumphed in multiple classic one-day races in 2023. His explosive power and tactical intelligence won him stages at the Grand Tours and made him a significant influence in the cycling community.
10. Erling Haaland (Football)
The absence of Košarka and Nikola Jokić
The absence of basketball, especially NBA champion Nikola Jokic, from this list, despite his notable achievements, deserves attention. Basketball is highly valued in the Balkans, and Jokić is a celebrated athlete all over the world. Its non-inclusion can be attributed to the list’s focus on individual sports and epochal achievements within a year.
In team sports like basketball, individual accolades may not always be as visible. However, this does not diminish Jokic’s skills and impact on the game. The diversity of sports and athletes on this list highlights the wealth of global sports talent in 2023.
