Top 10 most searched female athletes in 2023

• Female athletes continue shattering records, captivating audiences, and inspiring millions
• The past year witnessed an incredible surge in interest
• Iga Swiatek delivered a masterclass in tennis throughout 2022

Female athletes continue shattering records, captivating audiences, and inspiring millions worldwide. The past year witnessed an incredible surge in interest as fans across the globe turned to social media to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable women. Based on data from Google Trends  between September 2022 and August 2023, we present the top 10 most searched female athletes in 2022 each with their unique story of triumph and resilience.

1. IGA SWIATEK (TENNIS, POLAND)

Iga Swiatek has started her US Open title defence in a perfect way by defeating Rebecca Peterson in straight sets. Photo/ Sky Sports.

Iga Swiatek delivered a masterclass in tennis throughout 2022 and 2023. With a remarkable 37-match winning streak, she secured two Grand Slam singles titles, conquering the French Open and the US Open. Her unmatched performance catapulted her to the pinnacle of the tennis world, where she became the first Polish player to attain the coveted No. 1 ranking. She got 15.6 million searches.

2. COCO GAUFF – (TENNIS, AMERICA)

Coco Gauff received 10.1 million searches because she reached the quarterfinals of the French Open and the US Open. She was also one of the most popular players on the WTA Tour, with her matches often generating large viewership numbers. Additionally, Gauff is a young and talented player, which makes her a popular figure among tennis fans.

3. EMMA RADUCANU (TENNIS, UNITED KINGDOM)

Emma Raducanu’s star soared in 2021 when she achieved an extraordinary feat by clinching the US Open as a qualifier, becoming the first British woman to win a Grand Slam singles title since 1977. While 2022 presented its share of challenges, including injuries and inconsistent form, Raducanu displayed her enduring potential by reaching the quarterfinals of both the Australian Open and the Wimbledon Championships. That’s why she garnered 9.6 million searches and she deserves a spot in the top 10 most searched female athletes.

4. ALEXIA PUTELLAS (SOCCER, SPAIN)

Alexia Putellas enjoyed a stellar 2022 season with 7.8 million searches. She led Barcelona to a remarkable treble, comprising the UEFA Women’s Champions League, the Spanish Primera División, and the Copa de la Reina. Her incredible contributions were duly recognized as she secured the FIFA Women’s Player of the Year award for the second consecutive year.

5. ALEX MORGAN – (AMERICAN FOOTBALL)

Due to her outstanding performance in the NWSL and her advocacy for women’s empowerment, Alex Morgan had 7.1 million searches. She helped the US Women’s National Team qualify for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Summer Olympics, and she won the NWSL Golden Boot award for scoring 15 goals in 17 games. She is a force to reckon with in the top 10 most searched female athletes.

6. SAM KERR (SOCCER, AUSTRALIA)

In the world of soccer, Sam Kerr’s name rang loud and clear in 2022. She showcased her prolific scoring abilities, netting an astounding 50 goals in just 47 appearances for her club and country. Kerr’s efforts were pivotal in Chelsea’s triumph in the Women’s Super League (WSL) and the FA Cup, earning her the title of WSL Player of the Year and 6.9 million searches.

7. SIMONE BILES (GYMNASTICS, UNITED STATES)

Simone Biles made a remarkable return to the gymnastics scene in 2022, following a year-long hiatus dedicated to prioritizing her mental health. Yet, she still managed 6.3 million searches for the year. Her comeback was marked by a bronze medal win on the balance beam at the World Championships, and her presence is eagerly anticipated at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

8. MEGAN RAPINOE (SOCCER, UNITED STATES)

Megan Rapinoe remained a prominent figure in the soccer world in 2022 with 5.5 million searches. She led OL Reign to the playoffs in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Rapinoe also showcased both her on-field prowess and off-field advocacy. She continued to be a passionate advocate for social justice and LGBTQ+ rights, using her platform for a broader purpose.

9. NAOMI OSAKA (TENNIS, JAPAN)

Naomi Osaka. Photo/CNN

Naomi Osaka faced challenges in the 2022 season but her resilience shone through.She appeared in the top 10 most searched female athletes in 2022 with 5.4 million searches. Despite a demanding year, she managed to reach the semifinals of the Australian Open and the quarterfinals of the US Open. Additionally, Osaka took a break from tennis to prioritize her mental health, setting a powerful example for athletes globally.

10. JESSICA PEGULA (TENNIS, UNITED STATES)

Jessica Pegula had a breakthrough season in 2022 with 4.3 million searches. Her remarkable journey saw her reach the quarterfinals of both the Australian Open and the French Open. The year culminated with Pegula securing the No. 3 world ranking, marking her as a formidable force in the tennis arena.