Greatest American Olympians of All Time
Katie Ledecky or Jim Thorpe
Pick Your Favorite
VS
Your GOAT List
Why This Battle Matters
What happens when a turn-of-the-century decathlete clashes with a modern-day swimming sensation? Jim Thorpe, a man who conquered pentathlon and decathlon in the 1912 Olympics, symbolizes the rugged, raw roots of athletic prowess. Katie Ledecky, on the flip side, represents the ultra-specialized, record-shattering era of contemporary sports. This isn't just a contest of eras; it's a crucible testing what we treasure in our heroes — the versatile legend of yesteryears or the hyper-focused champions of today. As fans, your preference will steer the narrative of greatness. Which legacy resonates more with you?
🔥 Fan Takes
How Fans Are Voting
In this battle:
Fans currently prefer Jim Thorpe over Katie Ledecky when it comes to the greatest American Olympians of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick Jim Thorpe 58.3% of the time over Katie Ledecky.
Across all battles:
Jim Thorpe win rate: 60.1%
Katie Ledecky win rate: 53.6%
Fan FAQs
Why is this matchup between Jim Thorpe and Katie Ledecky generating so much buzz?
It's a thrilling clash of eras and sports! Jim Thorpe, a multisport legend from the early 20th century, contrasts sharply with Katie Ledecky, a modern swimming icon. Fans are drawn to debates over the impact of athletes from vastly different times and disciplines.
Why is Katie Ledecky so popular?
Fans adore Katie Ledecky for her dominance in the pool, her down-to-earth personality, and her relentless pursuit of excellence. She resonates with a lot of younger fans who admire her work ethic and accomplishments.
Who is better: Jim Thorpe or Katie Ledecky?
Right now, Jim Thorpe is leading in the fan votes. People really appreciate his versatility and the era he competed in, which adds a layer of historical awe to his legend.