TIME 100 magazine has named Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid one of the 100 most important individuals in sports, in a momentous recognition of his achievements both on and off the ice. This prize not only recognizes McDavid’s outstanding on-ice achievements but also cements his expanding legacy as a revolutionary figure in global athletics.
TIME’s famous annual list recognizes athletes, coaches, executives, and visionaries who are influencing the future of sports around the world. Being included is more than a personal milestone for McDavid; it’s a recognition of a career marked by tremendous skill, unwavering leadership, and a never-ending dedication to improving the sport of hockey.
At the age of 28, McDavid has already established a résumé that many players can only dream about. His supremacy on the ice is undeniable, having won the Hart Trophy multiple times, the Art Ross Trophy, and the Ted Lindsay Award. But TIME editors made it clear: McDavid’s position on this list is based not only on his statistics but also on his leadership amid a period of change and struggle in hockey.
“McDavid is not just the face of the Edmonton Oilers—he’s become the conscience of the NHL,” says Hayley Wickenheiser, a TIME contributor and former Olympian. “Whether advocating for mental health resources, promoting diversity in hockey, or inspiring the next generation with his relentless work ethic, Connor has used his platform for more than just goals and assists.”
McDavid’s influence has grown outside of North America during the last year. He has created youth initiatives in Canada and Europe to provide access to hockey in underserved communities. His voice has been heard in NHL labor and safety discussions, and he has collaborated with a number of international charities that promote youth education and athletic development.
TIME’s honor comes at a pivotal point in McDavid’s career. After just signing a historic $112 million contract deal with the Oilers, he reiterated his long-term commitment to Edmonton, a city that has matured alongside him and supported him through every postseason pain and victory.
McDavid responded to the announcement with trademark humility. “I’m honored by this recognition from TIME, but more importantly, I’m proud of the work we’re doing to grow the game and build something lasting in Edmonton and beyond,” said the soccer player. “Being influential only matters if you’re using that influence to do something positive.”
Throughout the hockey world, congratulations flooded in. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman lauded McDavid’s “elegance, class, and devotion to the sport,” while teammates Leon Draisaitl and Zach Hyman referred to the captain as “the ultimate leader.”
Even players outside of hockey took notice. Serena Williams tweeted, “Connor McDavid deserves every bit of his TIME 100 recognition. A peaceful storm on the ice and a powerful force away from it.
As the 2025-26 NHL season approaches, McDavid’s prominence becomes stronger. And now, with this TIME 100 award, his impact is measured not just in points, but also in the everlasting stamp he continues to make on the sport and the globe.