Andy Murray Crowned Most Inspirational British Sports Star of 21st Century

Andy Murray Named Most Inspirational British Sports Star of the Century

Tennis icon Andy Murray has been voted the most inspirational British sports star of the 21st century in a comprehensive national poll. The Wimbledon champion secured the top position ahead of Formula One legend Lewis Hamilton and football superstar David Beckham, cementing his status as a national sporting hero.

Poll Results and Ranking Details

Following a week of record-breaking achievements by Team GB at the Winter Olympics, a survey of 2,000 British adults revealed Murray as the clear winner. The Scottish tennis star, who ended Britain's 77-year wait for a Wimbledon men's champion in 2013, demonstrated enduring inspirational power. Olympic cycling champion Chris Hoy claimed second place, with long-distance runner Mo Farah taking third position. Hamilton and Beckham completed the top five, showcasing the diverse range of sports represented.

Other notable athletes featuring prominently in the rankings included heptathlete Jessica Ennis-Hill, footballer Marcus Rashford, and England captain Harry Kane. Remarkably, teenage darts sensation Luke Littler earned recognition for his transformative impact on the sport in recent years, demonstrating that inspiration can come from both established legends and emerging talents.

Key Qualities of Inspirational Athletes

The research, commissioned by charitable fundraising platform JustGiving, identified specific qualities that make sports stars inspirational to the British public. Setting a good example emerged as the most important characteristic, cited by 43 percent of respondents. Humility followed closely at 40 percent, while maintaining a positive attitude was valued by 38 percent of those surveyed.

Interestingly, exceptional sporting achievements ranked fourth at 36 percent, with charity work following at 26 percent. The number of goals scored or competitive victories proved less significant at just 24 percent, suggesting that off-field conduct and personal values carry substantial weight in public perception.

Inspiration Leading to Action

The study revealed that inspirational athletes have tangible effects on public behavior. Thirty percent of Britons reported being inspired by athletes' charitable work to participate in sporting fundraisers themselves. Furthermore, 41 percent stated that watching sporting greatness motivated them to become more active, while an overwhelming 84 percent said simply watching sports made them want to try activities themselves.

Personal challenge emerged as a significant motivator, with one-third of respondents inspired to push their own limits after witnessing memorable sporting moments. Nineteen percent sought to develop their skills following inspirational athletic performances.

Team Achievements and Future Events

The research also highlighted the most inspirational team achievements of the century. The Lionesses' victory at the UEFA Women's Euro 2022 claimed top position, followed by Team GB's record medal haul at the London 2012 Olympics. Leicester City's remarkable Premier League triumph in 2016 secured third place, demonstrating that underdog stories resonate powerfully with the British public.

As 2026 unfolds as a major sporting year, fans expressed particular excitement for several upcoming events. The World Cup, Wimbledon, and Winter Olympics generated the most anticipation, followed by the Six Nations rugby tournament, the British Grand Prix, and the Commonwealth Games.

Fundraising Impact and Trends

Pascale Harvie, president and general manager of JustGiving, emphasized the powerful connection between sports inspiration and charitable action. "Sports stars have a unique ability to inspire people in all sorts of ways," Harvie noted. "Their achievements can motivate fans to push their own limits, try something new, or simply believe that big goals are possible."

The platform reported £235 million raised through sporting and fitness events in 2025, representing a six percent year-on-year increase. Running emerged as the most popular fundraising activity, followed by walks and treks, then cycling. Half marathons proved the most common distance undertaken, while full marathons generated the highest donation totals.

Looking ahead, Harvie predicted: "2026 is shaping up to be a huge year for sport, packed with iconic tournaments and moments that capture the world's attention. If current trends continue, it could well be an equally big year for sports-related fundraising efforts."