Cathy Freeman leads the list of Australia's most admired sportspeople, according to a new DemosAu poll, with Ash Barty and Sam Kerr close behind. This trio of women has captured the nation's heart through their extraordinary achievements on the global stage.
The poll, which surveyed Australian adults, asked respondents to name up to three sportspeople they most admire. Freeman, the Sydney 2000 Olympic gold medalist in the 400m, was named by 10% of respondents, while former tennis world No. 1 Ash Barty and Matildas captain Sam Kerr each received 9%.
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Why These Three Women Stand Out
Their popularity transcends typical sporting hierarchies. None of them play Australia's biggest professional codes (AFL, NRL, or cricket), and they have never been the country's highest earners. Yet their athletic prowess and personal magnetism have won over the wider public.
George Hasanakos, head of research at DemosAu, noted that their success unites the country during international competitions. "Nothing brings Australians together like major sporting occasions," he said, citing Freeman's Olympic gold, Barty's Australian Open win, and the Matildas' 2023 World Cup campaign.
Localised Tastes Revealed
Digging deeper, regional preferences emerge. In Victoria, Neale Daniher, the late AFL coach and motor neurone disease campaigner, ranks second with 9% behind Barty. In NSW, Penrith halfback Nathan Cleary ranks second with 10%, behind Freeman's 13%.
Comparison of the Top Three
| Athlete | Sport | Key Achievement | Poll Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cathy Freeman | Track and Field | Olympic Gold 400m (2000) | 10% |
| Ash Barty | Tennis | Three Grand Slam Titles | 9% |
| Sam Kerr | Football (Soccer) | Ballon d'Or Féminin Runner-up 2023 | 9% |
Key Takeaways from the Poll
- Women dominate the top spots, reflecting a shift in public admiration.
- Success in global events (Olympics, Grand Slams, World Cup) drives national pride.
- Local heroes like Daniher and Cleary still hold strong regional appeal.
- Personal character and sportsmanship are as important as titles.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Who is Australia's most admired sportsperson?
Cathy Freeman, with 10% of poll respondents naming her, is the most admired sportsperson in Australia according to the DemosAu survey.
Why are Ash Barty and Sam Kerr so admired?
Both achieved global success in their sports—Barty with three tennis Grand Slams and Kerr as a top footballer—and are known for their humility and leadership.
Did the poll show any regional differences?
Yes, in Victoria, Neale Daniher ranked second, while in NSW, Nathan Cleary ranked second, showing local heroes remain influential.
This poll highlights a broader trend: Australians value not just sporting excellence, but also the ability to inspire and unite. Freeman, Barty, and Kerr embody these qualities, making them enduring icons.
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