Serena Williams
Just saying the name “Serena” creates imagery of a socially impactful athlete —not to mention, groundstrokes and a serve equal (and then some) to her fellow male tennis players. Serena Williams has long been an icon in sports (male or female), and the impact she has on social media has only increased her influence on younger athletes, women, men, fans of tennis and, really, sports. With over 20 million followers across Instagram and Twitter, Williams has built an empire off the court, from fashion to health and beauty lines to assisting charitable organizations such as UNICEF, while also championing for equal pay and aiding other causes. Williams’ social influence spans generations too, inspiring young girls to reach for their dreams while also providing other mothers with a familiar voice who can relate to the difficulties of raising children.