Smriti Mandhana becomes only Indian athlete in TIME's 100 Most Influential Sportspersons list

India women's team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has reached another milestone in her amazing career after being recognised by TIME Magazine among the most influential figures in global sports for 2026. The star opener is the only Indian athlete to secure a place on the prestigious list this year.

The publication's annual list marks the personalities who are leaving a long lasting mark on the sporting world through their achievements, leaderships and contributions. 

In the decorated list, Mandhana has joined a star studded group of world class athletes that consists of Lionel Messi (football), Cristiano Ronaldo (football), Carlos Alcararz (Tennis), Eileen Gu (freesking), Rory Mcllroy (golf), Victor Wembanyama (basketball) and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

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Why was Smriti Mandhana picked?

While opening up on Mandhana's inclusion, TIMES noted her pivotal role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's successive title triumphs in 2025 and 2026 in Women's Premier League. Mandhana has been incredible for the Indian team as well in the recent past, as she was one of the pivotal figures behind India's maiden ICC Women's ODI World Cup-winning campaign in 2025, where she emerged as one of the top-run scorers.

Over the past few years, the left-handed opener has managed to rewrite the history books. She became the top run-getter in women's international cricket across all the three formats in 2024.

Smriti Mandhana's next challenge

Currently, Smriti Mandhana is representing India in the Women's T20 World Cup 2026, where the Women in Blue played their tournament opener against arch rivals Pakistan and claimed a massive 64-run win on Sunday, 14 June at the Edgbaston in Birmingham.

In the clash against Pakistan, Mandhana emerged as the top scorer for India with her solid knock of 68 runs off 44 balls, hitting nine boundaries and two sixes at a strike rate of 154.55. Now, she will be seen in action in India's next game against Netherlands at the Headingley Carnegie, Leeds.