Meaning: The quote you provided is from Dick Schaap, a well-known journalist and author who covered sports and entertainment. In this quote, Schaap is discussing the difficulty of choosing the most significant athlete. He explains that he did not make his choice based solely on significance, and then goes on to list three iconic athletes: Muhammad Ali, Babe Ruth, and Michael Jordan.

Muhammad Ali is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time. Born Cassius Clay, he became an Olympic gold medalist and later converted to Islam, changing his name to Muhammad Ali. He was known for his charisma, confidence, and outspokenness both inside and outside the ring. Ali's impact went beyond his accomplishments in boxing; he was also a prominent civil rights activist and a symbol of resistance to the Vietnam War. His refusal to be drafted into the military resulted in his boxing license being revoked and his world title being stripped. This decision, and his subsequent legal battle, made him a symbol of standing up for one's beliefs.

Babe Ruth, also known as "The Bambino" and "The Sultan of Swat," is one of the most legendary figures in the history of baseball. Ruth's impact on the sport is immeasurable. He revolutionized the game with his incredible hitting power, setting numerous records and changing the way the game was played. Beyond his athletic prowess, Ruth's larger-than-life personality and off-field exploits made him a beloved figure in American popular culture. His influence on the sport of baseball and the nation's love of the game continues to be felt to this day.

Michael Jordan is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. His impact on the sport and popular culture is immeasurable. Jordan's skill, competitiveness, and charisma made him a global icon and helped popularize the NBA around the world. His influence extended beyond the basketball court, as he became a major figure in the world of sports marketing and endorsements. His Air Jordan sneaker line with Nike remains one of the most successful and iconic brands in the history of athletic footwear.

In considering the significance of these three athletes, it's important to recognize that their impact goes beyond their athletic achievements. Each of them transcended their respective sports and became cultural icons in their own right. They inspired and influenced not only athletes but also people from all walks of life.

Dick Schaap's quote reflects the difficulty of comparing the significance of athletes across different sports and eras. Each of the athletes he mentioned had a profound impact on their respective sports and on popular culture as a whole. Their influence extended far beyond their athletic accomplishments, making them enduring symbols of excellence, determination, and cultural significance.