Christian Athletes Who Publicly Share Their Faith in Sports

Posted on September 18, 2024 

In the world of sports, where physical skill, mental toughness, and competition often take center stage, it is inspiring to see athletes who openly share their Christian faith. These athletes not only excel in their respective sports but also use their platform to glorify God and inspire others. Their commitment to faith, even in the face of pressure and public scrutiny, sets an example for fans, fellow competitors, and anyone who looks up to them. Let’s explore some well-known Christian athletes who publicly share their faith and how their belief in God plays a central role in their sports careers. 

Tim Tebow – Football and Baseball 

Tim Tebow is perhaps one of the most prominent Christian athletes to boldly express his faith. Tebow, a former NFL quarterback and professional baseball player, is known for more than his impressive athletic abilities. Throughout his football career, especially during his time with the University of Florida and the Denver Broncos, Tebow frequently used his platform to speak openly about his relationship with Christ. 

The act of “Tebowing”—kneeling in prayer on the field—became a widely recognized gesture of his faith. His public displays of gratitude to God during games and interviews made him a role model for many Christian athletes. Tebow has always credited God for his talents and success, consistently giving glory to Christ regardless of the outcome of the game. 

After his football career, Tebow transitioned into professional baseball and broadcasting, continuing to share his faith with others. In addition, he founded the Tim Tebow Foundation, which focuses on serving children in need, particularly those with disabilities. Tebow’s unwavering dedication to his faith has made him a prominent figure not just in sports but also in Christian circles. 

Stephen Curry – Basketball 

Stephen Curry, a two-time NBA MVP and star of the Golden State Warriors, is known for his deep Christian faith. Curry has never been shy about expressing his belief in Jesus Christ. From the early stages of his career, Curry’s faith has been an integral part of who he is both on and off the court. 

Curry often points to the sky after making a shot, a gesture he says is a way of thanking God for His blessings. He has publicly stated that his talent is God-given and that he plays to glorify Him. Curry’s signature shoes even bear a reference to Philippians 4:13, the verse that reads, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” 

Beyond his performances in the NBA, Curry uses his platform to serve others through various charitable initiatives. Along with his wife, Ayesha Curry, he established the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation, which focuses on ending childhood hunger and supporting educational initiatives. Curry's public expression of faith, coupled with his charitable work, showcases his commitment to living out his beliefs. 

Simone Biles – Gymnastics 

Simone Biles is a decorated gymnast, widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time in her sport. Biles has won numerous Olympic and World Championship medals, but she consistently attributes her success to her faith in God. Despite the immense pressure she faces as an elite athlete, Biles remains vocal about her belief in Christ and how her faith has helped her overcome challenges throughout her career. 

In interviews, Biles has mentioned that prayer and her relationship with God play a significant role in her mental and emotional preparation for competition. She has also shared how her faith provides her with the strength to endure the ups and downs that come with being a professional athlete. 

Biles' story of faith resonates with many, as she represents not just physical excellence but also a deep sense of trust in God through adversity. Her achievements, combined with her public acknowledgment of God's role in her life, have made her an influential figure for Christian athletes around the world. 

Russell Wilson – Football 

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson is another athlete who frequently shares his Christian faith. Wilson’s success on the football field is undeniable—he has led his team to multiple playoff appearances and a Super Bowl victory. However, what sets Wilson apart is his willingness to speak openly about his faith in Christ, even on such a large stage as the NFL. 

Wilson often speaks about the importance of his faith, stating that his relationship with God is the most important part of his life. He and his wife, Ciara, have both shared how they prayed together before their marriage and continue to build their lives around their Christian beliefs. 

Wilson regularly uses his platform to inspire others, both through his charitable foundation, Why Not You Foundation, and through his presence on social media, where he shares scripture and words of encouragement. His strong faith and desire to glorify God through his talents have made him a role model for many aspiring Christian athletes. 

Russell Wilson: A Quarterback Grounded in Faith 

Russell Wilson, quarterback for the Denver Broncos, is another athlete known for his public displays of Christian faith. From his time leading the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory to his career today, Wilson has consistently credited his success to his relationship with God. He is open about the role faith plays in his life, often sharing Bible verses on social media and publicly thanking God after games. 

Wilson has said that his Christian faith is the foundation of everything he does, from his family life to his career. He frequently posts on his social media platforms about his faith, often quoting scripture or sharing messages of hope and encouragement for his followers. Wilson’s strong faith has made him a role model for both athletes and non-athletes alike, as he demonstrates how to balance a successful career with a deep spiritual commitment. 

Beyond football, Wilson is also involved in charitable work, much of which is influenced by his faith. His “Why Not You” Foundation, which focuses on children’s education and fighting poverty, is another example of how he uses his platform for good, grounded in his Christian values. 

Allyson Felix – Track and Field 

Allyson Felix, an Olympic sprinter and one of the most decorated athletes in U.S. history, is another athlete who has publicly expressed her Christian faith. Throughout her track and field career, Felix has been open about how her relationship with God has shaped her as a person and an athlete. 

In interviews, Felix has often shared that her faith is her foundation, and it gives her strength and perspective in times of triumph and struggle. She has credited her success on the track to her trust in God’s plan for her life, even when facing injuries or other setbacks. 

Felix’s faith-driven approach to her career serves as a testament to her belief that her talents are a gift from God, and she uses them to glorify Him. Her story of perseverance, guided by faith, is an inspiration to many who look up to her as both an athlete and a Christian. 

Drew Brees – Football 

Drew Brees, the former New Orleans Saints quarterback and one of the most prolific passers in NFL history, is known for his deep commitment to his Christian faith. Brees has often spoken about how his faith has guided him throughout his career, particularly after suffering a devastating shoulder injury early in his professional journey. 

Brees credits his recovery and eventual success to his trust in God’s plan. His faith is central to his identity, and he has used his platform to speak about the importance of faith in both his personal and professional life. Brees has also been involved in numerous charitable efforts, including the Brees Dream Foundation, which supports children in need. 

His public expressions of faith, combined with his leadership on and off the field, have made him a respected figure not only in football but also in the Christian community. 

These athletes have shown that it’s possible to be successful in sports while staying true to Christian values. They serve as examples of how faith can be a powerful guiding force, even in the competitive world of professional sports. By openly sharing their beliefs, they not only inspire fellow Christians but also encourage fans and followers to explore their own spiritual journeys. 

At Tom The Bomb Sports Talk, we are passionate about sharing the stories of Christian athletes and the ways they live out their faith in sports. If you’re looking to connect with like-minded sports fans who share a love for both the game and their faith, we’d love to hear from you! 

Feel free to reach out to us at (240) 678-8613 or [email protected] to learn more about how faith and sports intersect in powerful ways. We’re always ready to share stories, discuss current sports topics, and engage in meaningful conversations about faith and athletics.