Tigers With Influence: Sha’Carri Richardson & Angel Reese Among Complex’s Most Influential Female Athletes
In the ever-evolving landscape of sports, few athletes manage to transcend their respective arenas and leave an indelible mark on culture, fashion, and the broader conversation about representation, empowerment, and resilience. This year, Complex honored two such figures, Sha’Carri Richardson and Angel Reese, by including them in their prestigious list of the Most Influential Female Athletes. Both women, fierce competitors and outspoken trailblazers, have redefined what it means to be an athlete in the modern era.
Sha’Carri Richardson: Speed, Style, and Strength
Sha’Carri Richardson’s journey to global stardom has been marked by moments of triumph, controversy, and, ultimately, redemption. The track and field sprinter, known for her explosive speed and vibrant personality, has captivated audiences both on and off the track. With a personal best of 10.65 seconds in the 100 meters, Richardson has solidified herself as one of the fastest women in history, proving that she is more than just a social media sensation—she is an elite competitor.
Beyond her athletic prowess, Richardson has influenced the sports world with her unapologetic confidence and bold self-expression. From her fiery orange hair to her outspoken stance on personal and social issues, she has become a beacon for individuality and authenticity. Her journey, which includes a well-documented suspension from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics due to marijuana use, was a turning point in discussions about mental health, athlete autonomy, and drug policy in professional sports. Rather than allowing the setback to define her, Richardson used it as fuel, returning stronger to claim gold at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest.
Richardson’s influence extends beyond the track. She has become a cultural icon in fashion and endorsement deals, partnering with brands that align with her dynamic persona. Her ability to connect with fans through transparency and resilience has solidified her status as a role model for aspiring athletes who dare to be different.
Angel Reese: Dominating the Court and the Conversation
Angel Reese, the standout basketball star from LSU, has taken women’s basketball by storm. Known for her relentless playing style, signature trash talk, and magnetic charisma, Reese has quickly risen as one of the most recognizable figures in collegiate basketball. Dubbed the “Bayou Barbie,” Reese brings a combination of dominance and flair to the game, reminiscent of basketball greats who used their personality to elevate their sport.
Her impact was felt most prominently during LSU’s 2023 NCAA Championship run, where she led her team to victory and won the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player award. But it wasn’t just her on-court excellence that made headlines—it was her unapologetic embrace of her identity and competitive nature. During the championship game, Reese’s now-famous “you can’t see me” gesture toward Iowa’s Caitlin Clark sparked national debate about double standards in sports and the way Black female athletes are perceived compared to their white counterparts.
Reese didn’t back down from the discourse. Instead, she leaned into it, using her platform to highlight issues of race, gender, and representation in sports. She became a leading voice in the conversation about the treatment of female athletes and the importance of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, making history as one of the most marketable collegiate athletes.
Cultural Impact and Influence
What makes Sha’Carri Richardson and Angel Reese so influential is not just their success in their respective sports, but their ability to shift narratives and empower the next generation. Both athletes embody confidence, resilience, and the refusal to conform to outdated expectations. Their impact stretches far beyond competition—they are shaping how athletes engage with fans, brands, and even social movements.
Richardson has redefined what it means to be a track star in the digital age. Her presence on social media, coupled with her willingness to share her personal struggles and triumphs, has allowed fans to connect with her on a deeper level. She has inspired conversations about self-worth, authenticity, and the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of adversity.
Reese, on the other hand, has helped elevate women’s basketball to new heights. Her competitive fire and unwavering self-belief have contributed to record-breaking viewership and attendance in women’s college basketball. Her influence extends into fashion, media, and business, making her a blueprint for young athletes navigating the new era of NIL opportunities.
Breaking Barriers and Setting New Standards
Both Richardson and Reese have used their platforms to challenge the status quo. They have faced criticism and scrutiny but have remained steadfast in their pursuit of greatness. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance and self-confidence in an industry that often seeks to mold athletes into a particular image.
Richardson’s return to the top after her Olympic suspension speaks to the resilience required to succeed at the highest level. Her ability to bounce back and reclaim her dominance serves as inspiration to athletes dealing with setbacks and public scrutiny.
Reese’s impact on the business side of sports has set a new standard for collegiate athletes. Her lucrative NIL deals and outspoken personality have demonstrated the value of women’s sports in the marketplace. She has redefined what it means to be a student-athlete in today’s era, proving that success isn’t limited to what happens on the court but also how one navigates branding and financial opportunities.
The Future of Women’s Sports
The inclusion of Sha’Carri Richardson and Angel Reese on Complex’s Most Influential Female Athletes list is a well-earned recognition of their contributions to sports and culture. They represent a new wave of athletes who are unafraid to speak their minds, challenge outdated narratives, and embrace their individuality.
As women’s sports continue to grow in visibility and marketability, athletes like Richardson and Reese will play a crucial role in shaping the industry’s future. They are proving that influence isn’t just about performance—it’s about impact. Their legacies are already being written, and the next generation of athletes is taking notes.
With the continued rise of NIL deals, social media engagement, and athlete activism, figures like Richardson and Reese are setting the precedent for what it means to be an influential athlete in the 21st century. Their stories are still unfolding, but one thing is clear: they are not just participating in the game—they are changing it.