10 most searched athletes on social media in 2023

• The sporting arena is an interesting one this year
• Most professional sports league ended their 2022/23 season sometime this year
• The outcome spurred these searches

The sporting arena is an interesting one this year and it birthed an incredible list of the most searched athletes on social media in 2023.

Most professional sports league ended their 2022/23 season sometime this year and the outcome spurred these searches. For instance, the 2022-23 NBA season and EPL season treated fans to great moments. Tennis and Formula One have equally stunned their fans this season with the expected happening and not happening too.

Recent findings by OLBG have the following as the 10 most searched athletes on social media in 2023.

1. CRISTIANO RONALDO – 199.4 MILLION SEARCHES (FOOTBALLER)

Cristiano Ronaldo Saudi Captain. Photo/NaijNaira

Leading the charge with a staggering 199.4 million searches, Cristiano Ronaldo remains an indomitable force in the football world. The Portuguese legend’s move to Al-Nassr stirred up a frenzy, and fans worldwide couldn’t get enough of the drama that unfolded in 2022. His dazzling skills, unmatched work ethic, and age-defying performances continue to inspire generations.

2. NEYMAR – 140.9 MILLION SEARCHES (FOOTBALLER)

Neymar, the Brazilian magician, follows closely with 140.9 million searches. Known for his flair, creativity, and infectious energy, Neymar’s presence on and off the field consistently generates buzz. His unique style and charismatic persona make him a social media sensation.  His transfer to Inter Miami only added to the intrigue.

3. LIONEL MESSI – 104.4 MILLION SEARCHES (FOOTBALLER)

Lionel Messi, often mentioned in the same breath as Ronaldo, secured the third spot with 104.4 million searches. The Argentine maestro’s transition from Barcelona to Manchester City in 2022 continued to be a talking point in 2023. His extraordinary skills and humility have earned him an unwavering global fanbase.

4. LEBRON JAMES – 72.1 MILLION SEARCHES (NBA)

LeBron James. Photo/MSNBC News

LeBron James, the basketball king, ranks fourth with 72.1 million searches. Widely considered one of the greatest NBA players of all time, LeBron’s impact extends far beyond the court. His philanthropy, activism, and leadership in shaping the future of the game make him a subject of constant discussion and admiration. His continued stay in the league as the oldest NBA player pushed him to the most searched athletes on social media in 2023.

5. VIRAT KOHLI – 68.0 MILLION SEARCHES (CRICKET)

Cricket’s poster boy, Virat Kohli, secures the fifth position with 68.0 million searches. The Indian captain’s passion, tenacity, and consistent excellence with the bat make him a cricketing legend. Off the field, his fitness regimen and personal journey inspire millions worldwide.

6. KYLIAN MBAPPE – 63.7 MILLION SEARCHES (FOOTBALLER)

Kylian Mbappe, the French prodigy, ranks sixth with 63.7 million searches. His electrifying speed and dazzling skills have made him one of the most sought-after players in the world. Speculation about his future club choices kept the digital world on its toes in 2023.

7. CARLOS ALCARAZ – 60.0 MILLION SEARCHES (TENNIS)

Carlos Alcaraz US Open. Photo/Eurosport

Tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz takes the seventh spot with 60.0 million searches. The Spanish teenager’s meteoric rise and fearless style of play have captivated tennis enthusiasts. Alcaraz’s journey from a small town to the big stage is an inspiring tale that resonates with fans. His Wimbledon 2023 victory against Novak Djokovic and his subsequent 2023 US Open run generated millions of searches globally. He is the next big thing in the tennis arena.

8. NOVAK DJOKOVIC – 58.4 MILLION SEARCHES (TENNIS)

Another tennis heavyweight, Novak Djokovic, claims the eighth position with 58.4 million searches. Djokovic’s pursuit of Grand Slam records, combined with his resilience and mental fortitude, continues to draw admiration from tennis aficionados worldwide.

9. ERLING HAALAND – 43.4 MILLION SEARCHES (FOOTBALLER)

Erling Haaland, the Norwegian goal-scoring machine, secures the ninth spot with 43.4 million searches. His remarkable goalscoring prowess and potential transfers to top European clubs had fans glued to their screens in anticipation. Moreover, he scored in 52 out of 53 appearances for Manchester City. He is making a run for the coveted Ballon d’Or together with 30 other top footballers among them, Lionel Messi.

10. LEWIS HAMILTON – 34.9 MILLION SEARCHES (FORMULA 1)

Rounding out the top 10 is Formula 1 superstar Lewis Hamilton with 34.9 million searches. The British driver’s quest for more world championships and his relentless activism for social and environmental causes continue to make him a global icon both on and off the racetrack. His hunt for an eighth F1 World Championship title places him among the most searched athletes on social media in 2023.

CONCLUSION

These athletes’ achievements off the field are just one aspect of the phenomenon where they transcend their sport. They make use of their platforms to advocate for worthy causes, bring attention to pressing concerns, and serve as role models for their countless global admirers. They are now more than sports stars thanks to their commitment to their art and their ability to engage with fans personally on social media.