Cathy Freeman tops list of Australia’s admired sportspeople
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 5, 2026, 3:00 PM
Last updated Aug 5, 2026

Cathy Freeman has been named the most admired sports figure in Australia in an online poll. Ash Barty and Sam Kerr ranked joint second, showcasing a strong connection with the public despite not competing in the nation’s biggest professional sports. Freeman, Barty, and Kerr have all achieved notable success on the global stage, influencing public perception in the sporting realm. The poll reflects a notable sporting divide in Australia, highlighting the appeal of these figures outside traditional sports frameworks.
- •Cathy Freeman is ranked first in admiration.
- •Ash Barty and Sam Kerr tie for second.
- •Freeman, Barty, and Kerr excel internationally.
- •Poll shows a sporting schism in Australia.
- •The results highlight the appeal of individual athletes.
- 3:00 PMThe Guardian Sport — Cathy Freeman leads trio of women at top of list of Australia’s most admired sportspeople
"Ash Barty and Sam Kerr rank joint second nationally in online poll Nathan Cleary in NSW and Neale Daniher in Victoria rank highly There is a sporting schism in Australia, and it is crossed by only three individuals. All have shone on the global stage, their achievements radiating from recent memories. The three women have not played Australia’s biggest professional codes, and have never been the country’s highest money-earner. Yet through their athletic prowess and personal magnetism they have won over the wider public. Continue reading...
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