10 Black Women Athletes to Watch at the Summer Games
These phenomenal athletes are set to make history and inspire at the Summer Games in Paris. From the courts to the tracks, get to know the Black women who are redefining excellence in sports.
Photo: Getty Images
As the world gears up for the 2024 Summer Games in Paris, these phenomenal competitors are set to make history and inspire us all. Get ready to meet the trailblazers who are not only chasing medals but also breaking barriers and setting new standards of greatness.
1. Jordan Chiles – Gymnastics
You've surely heard of her good friend and teammate Simone Biles, but Jordan Chiles is another key player on the talented US gymnastics team. The Olympic silver medalist is known for her consistency and jaw-dropping routines.
2. Coco Gauff – Tennis
Coco Gauff impressed at the French Open, reaching the semi-finals and winning the women's doubles championship with partner Katerina Siniakova. Expect her to dominate at the Stade Roland-Garros again this summer.
3. Brittney Griner – Basketball
A two-time Olympic gold medalist, Brittney Griner returns with renewed purpose after her wrongful Russian imprisonment. She's ready to make every moment count.
4. Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone – Track & Field
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is a world record-breaking phenomenon in the 400-meter hurdles. She set a world record of 51.46 seconds in 2021 and has broken four more records since. In Paris, watch for her to set new records and potentially become the first woman to break the 50-second barrier.
5. Simone Manuel – Swimming
Simone Manuel made history as the first Black woman to win an individual gold in swimming at the 2016 games in Rio. This year, she's poised to shine in the 100m freestyle.
6. Morelle McCane – Boxing
Silver medalist at the 2023 Pan American Games, Morelle McCane competes at the iconic Court Suzanne Lenglen in Paris, bringing excitement to Olympic boxing.
7. Lauren Scruggs – Fencing
Harvard fencer Lauren Scruggs, a six-time Junior and Cadet World Champion, is ready to make a splash in a sport often overlooked.
8. Sophia Smith – Soccer
Rising star Sophia Smith, alongside Trinity Rodman and Crystal Dunn, is poised to lead the USWNT back to glory. After a mixed year and an early World Cup exit, the team is determined to reclaim their dominance this summer in Paris.
9. Naya Tapper – Rugby
USA co-captain Naya Tapper is set for her Olympic finale, aiming to go out on top. Rugby fans won't want to miss her last dance.
10. Gabby Thomas – Track & Field
Gabby Thomas, an elite 200-meter sprinter and Harvard-educated health care professional, balances her athletic prowess with volunteering at a clinic for underprivileged patients.
Want more stories like this delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for one or more of OWN's free newsletters!
NEXT STORY
