The Age of Influence: SI’s 2025 Power List Reveals Youngest and Oldest Trailblazers
Sports Illustrated’s highly anticipated 2025 Power List has been unveiled, shining a spotlight on athletes who are not only dominating their respective fields but also profoundly shaping the sports landscape and forging indelible legacies. This isn’t just about physical prowess; it’s about cultural impact, social influence, and the superhuman ability to redefine what’s possible.
From the electrifying pace of soccer to the brutal honesty of the MMA cage, these remarkable individuals, both seasoned veterans and audacious rookies, demonstrate that power manifests in countless forms. Today, we delve into the two extremes of this influential spectrum: the youngest and oldest athletes who earned a coveted spot on SI’s prestigious list.
Lamine Yamal: The 18-Year-Old Football Prodigy Redefining Greatness
At a mere 18 years old, Spanish soccer sensation Lamine Yamal stands as the youngest athlete to grace Sports Illustrated’s 2025 Power List. His meteoric rise has been nothing short of breathtaking, leaving defenders in his wake and fans in awe.
A Resume Beyond His Years
Despite his tender age, Yamal’s trophy cabinet already boasts multiple La Liga titles with Barcelona and a Euros championship with Spain. His individual honors and records are staggering, placing him in a league of his own. While his slender 5’11” frame might not immediately suggest a world-class goalscorer, the moment he touches the ball, his transformative power becomes undeniable.
Defenders scramble to contain him, teammates anticipate his next ingenious move, and every eye in the stadium is fixed on the Catalan wonderkid, expecting the extraordinary. His magical Champions League goal against Inter Milan is just one example of his capacity for brilliance.
Euros Debut and Global Recognition
Yamal exploded onto the global stage during his Euros debut last summer, shattering Pelé’s record to become the youngest player ever to feature in the tournament’s final. He concluded the Euros with an impressive one goal and four assists, a testament to his immediate impact.
Fresh off his first major national team triumph, Yamal is now poised to usher in a new golden era for “La Rojas” at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His name is already synonymous with the future of soccer, and his career is only just beginning. This is the essence of power – influence that transcends age and experience.
Kayla Harrison: A 35-Year-Old Warrior’s Enduring Legacy
On the other end of the spectrum, 35-year-old UFC bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison embodies a different kind of power – one forged through unwavering toughness and resilience. Her life story is a testament to overcoming adversity and channeling inner strength into unparalleled success.
From Judo Gold to MMA Dominance
A two-time Olympic gold medalist in judo, Harrison’s journey began with humble roots in the sport. At just 16, she bravely spoke out after years of sexual abuse by her judo coach. From this profound hardship, she channeled her pain into purpose, becoming the first American (male or female) to win a gold medal in judo at the 2012 London Games.
Her awe-inspiring endurance never wavered, even as she transitioned to the demanding world of mixed martial arts (MMA). She fought her way to two Professional Fighters League (PFL) world championships and, most recently, a coveted UFC championship. Harrison now stands as one of the best fighters in the world, a true warrior in every sense.
Beyond the Octagon: A Champion for Change
But Harrison’s influence extends far beyond her athletic achievements. She is a devoted mother of two and a fearless leader of a foundation dedicated to empowering sexual abuse victims and survivors. Her ability to rise repeatedly, both in and out of the cage, defines her as a true champion.
Throughout her decorated career, Kayla Harrison has become the embodiment of resilience and unwavering spirit, a powerful icon whose impact resonates far beyond the world of combat sports. Her inclusion on the Power List is a recognition of her enduring strength and profound influence.
The Spectrum of Power
The 2025 SI Power List beautifully illustrates that influence knows no age. Whether it’s the youthful exuberance and undeniable talent of Lamine Yamal, or the hardened resilience and inspiring journey of Kayla Harrison, these athletes prove that true power comes in many forms. Their stories are a testament to the diverse ways individuals can shape their sports and, indeed, the world.
For more insights into the world of sports and influential athletes, explore the Sports Illustrated Power List.
