10 iconic athletes who shaped today’s guinness world records history
By Coact Digital stories
In 1759, Arthur Guinness founded the Guinness Brewery in Dublin, Ireland. Decades later, the idea of documenting the world’s most astonishing feats took shape when Sir Hugh Beaver, then managing director of the brewery, teamed up with twin brothers Norris and Ross McWhirter. In August 1955, the first edition of what we now know as the Guinness World Records was published in London — becoming the definitive chronicle of human achievement, dedication, and sometimes sheer eccentricity.
From the fastest sprinter the world has ever seen to the most decorated swimmer in Olympic history, countless athletes have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible — earning a place not just in record books, but in global sporting history. Here, we spotlight 10 iconic athletes whose extraordinary feats shaped today’s Guinness World Records legacy.
Sachin Tendulkar
Cricket’s beloved “Little Master,” Sachin Tendulkar, holds an astonishing 19 Guinness World Records: the highest runs in international cricket, the only player with 100 international centuries, most Test matches played (200), and the most Test fifties (68). To celebrate his unmatched legacy, Guinness World Records honored him during their diamond jubilee celebrations
Lionel Messi
Cristiano Ronaldo
Roger Federer
Tiger Woods
Michael Phelps
No athlete has amassed more Olympic medals than Michael Phelps: an astounding 28, including 23 golds. Between 2001 and 2009, Phelps shattered 39 swimming world records — a feat that earned him enduring recognition among the Guinness elite.
Usain Bolt
Known universally as the fastest man alive, Bolt set world records that continue to inspire: 9.58 seconds in the 100m and 19.19 seconds in the 200m. His legendary speed also carried Jamaica’s 4×100m relay team to record-breaking glory.
Wayne Rooney
Once England’s top scorer, Rooney holds the record for most goals scored for a single Premier League club (183 for Manchester United). Adding to his unique Guinness record, Rooney appeared on the cover of the FIFA video game series for seven consecutive years — an extraordinary blend of football and pop culture influence.
Dele Alli
The English midfielder carved out a playful yet impressive spot in Guinness World Records by performing eight “nutmegs” in 30 seconds while playing for Tottenham Hotspur — proving creativity and flair can be record-breaking, too.
Serena Williams
A titan in women’s tennis, Serena Williams holds the most Grand Slam singles titles in the Open Era (23) and shares the longest reign as world number one (186 consecutive weeks). She also holds the record for the most Grand Slam singles match wins (367). Her dominance and resilience have earned her multiple Guinness World Records honors.
These legendary athletes didn’t just break records — they inspired millions and redefined what greatness means in sport. Photo : Illustration
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