6 iconic moments when the female athletes became the sport's GOAT.

Here are six iconic moments when they stepped up and claimed their throne.

1. In 1984, gymnast Mary Lou Retton became the first American woman to win a gold medal in an individual event at the Olympic Games. She was only 16 years old at the time, and her spectacular performances earned her a place in history as one of the most successful gymnasts ever.

2. In 1996, USA’s women’s basketball team became the first to win gold in an Olympic event. Led by stars like Lisa Leslie and Sheryl Swoopes, they swept aside every other team on their way to the top, becoming an international sensation.

3. In 2001, Serena Williams took tennis by storm when she became the first African-American woman to win a Grand Slam singles title in more than 30 years. Her success opened up new opportunities for women in tennis and inspired a generation of female players.

4. In 2003, Ronda Rousey became the first female fighter in the UFC and she quickly rose to prominence. In just four years, she had become the undisputed champion of women’s MMA and firmly established her place in history as one of the greatest fighters of all time.

5. In 2012, British runner Mo Farah made history when he became the first athlete to win double gold in both the 5,000 and 10,000 meters at the Olympics. In doing so, he inspired a generation of female athletes and paved the way for others to follow in his footsteps.

6. Finally in 2019, American footballer Megan Rapinoe became an icon when she led her team to victory in the Women’s World Cup. Her inspiring performances and her outspoken stance against injustice and inequality earned her a place in history as one of the greatest female athletes of all time.

These six iconic moments highlight just how far women have come in sport, and prove that the female athlete has well and truly earned their GOAT status.