Champion Choices: Baby Names Inspired by Olympians

What do babies and the Olympic Games have in common? Both remind us of the unlimited potential of human beings. Just as Olympic athletes inspire us with their dedication, resilience, and remarkable achievements, a newborn represents infinite possibilities and dreams waiting to unfold. For parents seeking names with a touch of excellence and competitive spirit, Olympic-inspired names offer meaningful connections to greatness, determination, and international harmony. Whether you're expecting during an Olympic year or simply want to bestow upon your child a name associated with athletic prowess and global triumph, these names could set your little champion on a path to their own personal victories.

Every two years, the Olympics bring together thousands of athletes competing to be the best of the best. And while they're vying for medals on the track, field, velodrome, and more, these talented competitors also inspire people back home – both with their athletic feats and their names.

In honor of the Paris Olympics this summer, we looked back at some of the most inspiring athletes who have represented the United States on the world stage and how popular their names are.

Parents have shared their babies' names with Momcozy for the past 8 years, providing an exclusive, in-depth look at which names are gold medal-worthy or have slipped off the podium entirely. (Momcozy measures the popularity of thousands of names – including rarer ones like Sunisa and Kerri – that the Social Security Administration doesn't track.) Here's what we found.

Mia (Hamm)

Soccer legend with a name that's short but powerful

Soccer icon Mia Hamm dominated the international stage across three Olympic Games (1996, 2000, and 2004), securing two gold medals and one silver for the U.S. women's team. Her impressive career includes four FIFA Women's World Cup appearances and multiple Female Athlete of the Year honors. Remarkably, at just 15 years old, Hamm became the youngest player ever to join the U.S. women's national soccer team, setting the stage for her legendary career.

Though Mia typically serves as a nickname for Maria, Hamm's full name is actually Mariel. All these variations derive from Mary, a name with biblical roots but uncertain precise meaning. Among Momcozy parents, Mia stands as the most popular name on this Olympic-inspired list, currently ranking at No. 8 for baby girls—proving this short, two-syllable name carries championship-level appeal.

Michael (Phelps)

The most decorated Olympian with a timeless name

When it comes to Olympic greatness, no athlete stands taller than Michael Phelps, the swimming phenomenon who has earned an unprecedented 28 Olympic medals throughout his career. With 23 gold medals to his name, Phelps holds the distinction of being the most decorated Olympian in history, regardless of nationality or gender.

His 2008 Beijing Olympics performance remains one of the most extraordinary athletic achievements ever witnessed, where he secured eight gold medals in a single Games—breaking Mark Spitz's previous record of seven. This remarkable feat showcased his dominance across multiple swimming disciplines and cemented his legacy as an Olympic icon.

The name Michael carries a rich biblical history and derives from Hebrew, meaning "who is like God?"—a rhetorical question implying no one compares to the divine. This timeless classic continues to resonate with parents today, ranking as the 22nd most popular name among boys. Choosing Michael for your little one connects them to both a storied tradition and the spirit of Olympic excellence.

Natalie (Coughlin)

Swimming champion with an elegant French-derived name

Natalie Coughlin stands as one of the most decorated American swimmers in Olympic history. She made waves at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing when she captured six medals in a single Games, becoming the first American woman to achieve this remarkable feat. Throughout her illustrious career, Coughlin amassed an impressive collection of 12 Olympic medals, cementing her legacy in swimming history.

The name Natalie derives from the Latin phrase natalis dies, meaning "birthday" and traditionally associated with Christmas or the birth of Christ. This elegant name peaked in popularity during the 1990s and early 2000s but remains comfortably within the top 100 girls' names at number 77. With its French-derived charm and connection to a champion athlete, Natalie makes an excellent choice for parents seeking a name with both grace and winning associations.

Ryan (Lochte)

Swimming star with an Irish name meaning 'little king'

With 12 Olympic medals to his name, Ryan Lochte stands as the second-most decorated swimmer in Olympic history, sharing this prestigious honor with fellow American swimming legends Natalie Coughlin, Dara Torres, and Jenny Thompson. His impressive Olympic journey spans four Games from 2004 to 2016, showcasing remarkable longevity in a physically demanding sport. After failing to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics, the veteran swimmer is making a comeback at age 39, demonstrating his enduring competitive spirit.

The name Ryan derives from the ancient Irish name Rian, believed to mean "little king" or "royal." It's a name that carries strength and leadership qualities, perfectly fitting for an Olympic champion. Currently ranked No. 80 in popularity for boys in the United States, the name has also been gaining traction for girls, now standing at No. 829 on the girls' naming charts—reflecting its modern versatility as a gender-neutral option for parents inspired by Olympic greatness.

Mark (Spitz)

Swimming icon with a classic, strong name

Mark Spitz made Olympic history as an American swimming legend who captured an astounding 11 Olympic medals throughout his career. His most remarkable achievement came at the 1972 Munich Summer Olympics, where he won seven gold medals in a single Games—each with a world record time. This unprecedented feat stood unmatched until Michael Phelps surpassed it in 2008.

The name Mark derives from the Latin name Marcus, believed to be associated with Mars, the Roman god of war, lending it a powerful and victorious quality. This classic boy's name peaked in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s but maintains enduring appeal, currently ranking at No. 268. Strong, concise, and with championship credentials, Mark offers timeless appeal for parents seeking a name with both athletic heritage and traditional roots.

Nelly (Korda)

Golf champion with a spirited and charming name

Golfer Nelly Korda made her Olympic mark by winning gold in the women's individual golf event during her 2021 Olympic debut. The talented athlete returns to the Olympics this year to defend her championship title, riding an impressive wave of success after winning six of her last seven tournaments.

The name Nelly traditionally emerged as a diminutive of Eleanor (similar to Nell), a French name with origins so ancient its precise meaning has been lost to history. While long used as a nickname, Nelly has recently gained popularity as a standalone name, currently ranking No. 704 for girls in the United States. Its cheerful sound and connection to this determined gold medalist make it an excellent choice for parents seeking a name with both charm and winning spirit.

Carl (Lewis)

Track and field legend with a name meaning 'strong'

Carl Lewis stands as one of the most decorated Olympic athletes in history, dominating track and field events from the 1980s through the 1990s. His remarkable Olympic career spanned from 1984 to 1996, during which he accumulated an impressive collection of 10 Olympic medals, including 9 golds. Lewis excelled in multiple events including the 100-meter sprint, the 4 x 100 meter relay, and the long jump, showcasing his versatility as an athlete.

The name Carl derives from the Germanic word "karl," which actually means "free man" rather than "strong." This classic name enjoyed tremendous popularity in the early 20th century but has gradually declined over the decades, currently ranking at No. 970 for boys. Choosing this name for your baby might inspire the same determination, excellence, and longevity that characterized Carl Lewis's illustrious athletic career.

Jennifer (Thompson)

Swimming superstar with a popular and enduring name

Jennifer "Jenny" Thompson stands as one of the most decorated Olympic swimmers in history, earning an impressive 12 medals—including eight gold—across four Olympic Games from 1992 to 2004. Her remarkable achievements in the pool have cemented her legacy in Olympic swimming history.

The Olympic tradition continues with another notable Jennifer competing this year: Jennifer Valente, an American cyclist who claimed gold in the women's omnium event in 2021 and returns to defend her championship title. These accomplished athletes showcase the winning spirit associated with the name.

The name Jennifer derives from the Old French name Guinevere, which itself evolved from the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar. This beautiful name combines the Welsh words meaning "white, fair" and "blessed, holy" with "smooth, soft"—qualities fitting for a graceful athlete.

After dominating as the number one girls' name in America from 1970 to 1984, Jennifer has gradually declined in popularity over recent decades. Now ranking at No. 1,018, the name maintains its classic appeal while offering parents a less common choice for their future champion.

Allyson (Felix)

Track champion with a name signifying noble truth

With an impressive 11 Olympic medals to her name, Allyson Felix stands as the most decorated female track and field Olympian in history. Her remarkable career spanned from Athens 2004 to Tokyo 2021, where she concluded her Olympic journey with two additional medals, including gold.

Beyond her athletic achievements, Felix has become a powerful advocate for maternal health, particularly for Black women. After experiencing preeclampsia during her pregnancy and delivering her daughter prematurely, she courageously shared her story before Congress, highlighting the disproportionate risks faced by Black women during pregnancy and childbirth.

Currently ranked No. 1,218 among Momcozy parents' choices for baby girls, Allyson is a distinctive variation of the more popular Allison (No. 217). Both derive from the medieval French version of Alice, ultimately tracing back to Germanic roots where it carries the dignified meaning of "noble" – a fitting tribute to an athlete whose legacy extends far beyond the track.

Kristi (Yamaguchi)

Figure skating gold medalist with a faithful name

Kristi Yamaguchi made Olympic history in 1992 when she became the first Asian American to win a gold medal in any Winter Olympics. Her breathtaking figure skating performance at the Albertville Games earned her the top spot on the podium in her first and only Olympic appearance.

The name Kristi is a diminutive of Kristine, which derives from the Greek word meaning "Christian" or "follower of Christ." Currently ranked at No. 1,220 for girls, Kristi maintains more popularity than Kristine, which was ranked much lower at No. 3,640 in 2023. Parents who choose this name honor both a trailblazing Olympic champion and a name with deeply faithful roots.

Simone (Biles)

Gymnastics GOAT with a name meaning 'to be heard'

Simone Biles has redefined excellence in gymnastics, winning an astounding five medals at her Olympic debut in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. With seven Olympic medals and an unprecedented 30 World Championship medals, she stands as the most decorated gymnast in history, cementing her legacy as the Greatest Of All Time.

At the Tokyo Olympics, Biles made headlines for her courageous decision to withdraw from several finals due to experiencing "the twisties" – a dangerous mental block affecting spatial awareness. Her prioritization of mental health over medals sparked global conversations about athlete wellbeing and demonstrated leadership beyond her physical abilities. Fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating her potential triumphant return at the Paris Olympics.

The name Simone is the feminine French version of the biblical name Simeon, derived from Hebrew roots meaning "one who hears" or "to be heard" – a fitting name for someone whose actions have spoken volumes. Despite Biles' tremendous fame, the name remains relatively uncommon, ranking just 1,232nd in popularity for girls, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking inspiration from a true champion.

Jagger (Eaton)

Skateboarding medalist with a rock-inspired name

Jagger Eaton made history as the first American to win an Olympic medal for skateboarding when he claimed bronze in the 2021 Tokyo Games. The talented athlete returns to compete in Paris 2024, aiming to upgrade his medal to gold.

Jagger remains relatively uncommon as a first name, ranking at No. 1,243 for boys, though it's widely recognized as a surname thanks to Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger. This edgy, rock-inspired name carries a cool factor that appeals to parents looking for something distinctive yet recognizable.

The name originated as an English occupational surname for someone who transported goods, derived from the Middle English word jag, meaning "pack" or "load." Its evolution from workplace descriptor to rockstar surname to Olympic athlete's name showcases how names can transform across generations and contexts.

Bode (Miller)

Alpine skiing legend with a unique, adventurous name

Bode Miller stands as the most decorated American alpine ski racer in history. His extraordinary career includes multiple World Championship victories and an impressive Olympic medal collection—gold at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, plus five additional medals across the 2002, 2010, and 2014 Games. His fearless skiing style and competitive spirit made him a legendary figure in winter sports.

Pronounced "boh-dee," the name Bode has Dutch and German origins where it served as an occupational surname for messengers or representatives. Despite its strong sound and association with athletic excellence, it remains relatively uncommon as a first name, ranking at No. 1,394 for boys. Choosing this distinctive name could inspire your little one to embrace adventure and forge their own path with determination.

Dara (Torres)

Swimming icon who competed in five Olympics

Dara Torres shares an impressive distinction with Jenny Thompson and Natalie Coughlin, each having earned 12 Olympic medals in women's swimming, tying them for the most decorated American female swimmers in Olympic history.

Torres made history as the first swimmer to represent the United States at five Olympic Games, competing in 1984, 1988, 1992, 2000, and 2008. Her most remarkable achievement came when she qualified for the 2008 Summer Olympics at age 41, becoming the oldest swimmer ever to compete for the U.S. Olympic team. At those Games, she captured two silver medals and broke her own personal record in the 50-meter freestyle event, demonstrating extraordinary longevity in a sport typically dominated by younger athletes.

The name Dara derives from the Irish surname MacDara, meaning "son of oak" — a fitting origin for someone with such remarkable strength and endurance. Currently, Dara ranks No. 1,551 for girls and No. 4,906 for boys, making it a distinctive yet recognizable choice for parents seeking an Olympic-inspired name.

Shaun (White)

Snowboarding pioneer with a classic Irish name

Legendary snowboarder Shaun White has etched his name in Olympic history by competing in five Winter Olympics and claiming gold medals in 2006, 2010, and 2018. His unprecedented achievement as the most decorated Olympic snowboarder of all time has made him an icon in winter sports.

The name Shaun represents an anglicized version of the Irish Sean, which itself derives from John. With Hebrew origins meaning "God is gracious," this distinctive yet traditional name currently ranks at No. 1,822 for boys in popularity. Parents drawn to athletic inspirations might appreciate this name that combines classic heritage with modern sporting excellence.

Carissa (Moore)

Surfing gold medalist with a graceful, beloved name

Carissa Moore made history when she won the first-ever gold medal for short board surfing at the Summer Olympics in 2020. She'll defend her title at the 2024 Olympics in Paris – but afterward, Moore has said she'll be stepping away from competitive surfing to start a family.

As a name, Carissa has a couple of potential origins. It could be a version of Carys, a Welsh name that means "love." Or it could be a version of Charissa, which comes from a Greek word meaning "grace." Carissa currently ranks No. 2,649 for girls, making it a distinctive choice that carries the spirit of an Olympic champion.

Apolo (Ohno)

Speed skating champion with a mythological name

Short track speed skater Apolo Ohno is the most decorated American Winter Olympian of all time, with an impressive collection of eight medals. His Olympic journey began triumphantly at the 2002 Salt Lake City Games, where he captured gold and silver medals, before adding six more medals to his tally at the 2006 and 2010 Winter Olympics.

The origin of his distinctive name has an interesting story. According to a 2002 interview with the Orlando Sentinel, Ohno's father thoughtfully crafted his name by combining Greek words that mean "to lead" and "look out" – fitting qualities for a future champion who would demonstrate such remarkable leadership and vision on the ice.

The name Apolo also evokes Apollo, the powerful Greek god associated with the sun, music, and prophecy. While Apollo ranks as the 353rd most popular name for boys, Apolo remains a much more distinctive choice at number 5,841 – making it perfect for parents seeking a rare name with both athletic prowess and mythological significance.

Shawn (Johnson)

Gymnastic gold medalist with a gender-neutral name

During her Olympics appearance in 2008, artistic gymnast Shawn Johnson earned four medals: one in gold for the balance beam and three more in silver for team, all-around, and floor exercise. Her powerful performances and infectious smile made her an instant fan favorite and American sports icon.

She also inspired the next generation of gymnasts with her exceptional talent – Sunisa Lee, who competed in the Tokyo Olympics, told The New York Times that watching clips of Johnson performing as a child sparked her own interest in gymnastics. Johnson's legacy continues through the athletes she's influenced with her determination and skill.

Like Shaun, Shawn is an anglicized version of Sean, derived from the Irish name John. While predominantly used for boys (currently ranking No. 572 for boys in the U.S.), this gender-neutral name ranks around No. 8,450 for girls, making it a distinctive choice that carries the strength and grace exhibited by its Olympic namesake.

Sunisa (Lee)

Gymnastics all-around champion with a radiant name

Gymnast Sunisa Lee made a spectacular Olympic debut in 2020, capturing three medals: gold in the all-around event, silver in the team competition, and bronze on the uneven bars. The talented athlete returns to the Olympic stage this year to defend her all-around championship title and potentially set new records in her other events.

The name Sunisa carries the beautiful meaning of "good night" in Thai. It's a rare and distinctive choice in the United States, ranking at No. 12,087 for girls. With its melodic sound and connection to an Olympic champion, this name carries both cultural significance and athletic inspiration for your future winner.

Kerri (Walsh Jennings)

Beach volleyball legend with an Irish name meaning 'dark-haired'

Kerri Walsh Jennings stands as the most decorated beach volleyball player in Olympic history. Her incredible career includes three consecutive gold medals alongside teammate Misty May-Treanor in 2004, 2008, and 2012, followed by a bronze medal with April Ross at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio.

The name Kerri is an alternate spelling of Kerry, which derives from County Kerry in Ireland and traditionally means 'dark-haired' or 'dark one.' While Kerry works as a gender-neutral option, the spelling Kerri is generally more commonly used for girls.

Despite its beautiful meaning and Olympic connection, Kerri remains a relatively rare choice for modern parents. The name hasn't ranked among the top names this year, with its most recent ranking for girls at No. 11,311 in 2023, and for boys at No. 9,273 in 2022.

Methodology

How we selected these Olympic-inspired baby names

To curate this list of Olympic-inspired baby names, we analyzed trending names associated with iconic Olympic athletes, significant Olympic locations, and classical symbols of the games. We prioritized names that have shown popularity in our database while also considering their meaningful connections to Olympic history and values. Names were selected based on their potential appeal to parents seeking inspiration from themes of excellence, perseverance, and global unity.

Momcozy's baby name data is volunteered by parents who enter their babies' names in real time, revealing an up-to-the-minute look at which names are the most popular. Rankings for this article are current as of July 2, 2024