CONGRATULATIONS: Wisconsin Legend Ron Dayne Named to TIME 100’s Most Influential People in Sports List
Madison, Wis. — In a moment of national recognition for one of Wisconsin’s most celebrated athletes, Ron Dayne, the legendary Badgers running back and 1999 Heisman Trophy winner, has been named to the TIME 100 Most Influential People in Sports for 2025. The honor places Dayne among a prestigious group of athletes, executives, and visionaries shaping the future of sports around the globe.
The TIME 100 list, long regarded as one of the most authoritative recognitions of cultural and professional impact, praised Dayne for his enduring influence both on and off the field. While his college football achievements remain historic—rushing for a then-NCAA record 7,125 yards and leading Wisconsin to back-to-back Rose Bowl victories—his post-football legacy is defined by his dedication to community service, youth mentorship, and advocacy for athlete mental health.
“Ron Dayne is more than a football legend—he’s a force for good,” TIME editors wrote in their profile. “He uses his platform to inspire, educate, and empower, proving that greatness is measured not just in records, but in the lives you touch.”
Since retiring from the NFL, Dayne has immersed himself in philanthropic efforts, particularly through his work with Wisconsin-based charities and youth sports programs. He regularly hosts football camps, motivational speaking events, and charity fundraisers, aiming to give young athletes the tools and confidence they need to succeed both in sports and in life.
“This recognition isn’t just for me—it’s for everyone who believed in me, from my teammates to my community,” Dayne said in a statement. “Football gave me a voice, and I feel it’s my responsibility to use it to help others.”
Fellow Wisconsin sports figures have been quick to congratulate Dayne, with Badgers athletic director Chris McIntosh calling the honor “a fitting tribute to a man who has carried the pride of Wisconsin with him every step of the way.”
Dayne’s inclusion on the TIME 100 list solidifies his position as not just a Wisconsin icon, but a national figure whose influence reaches far beyond the gridiron. For Badger fans, it’s another reminder that Ron Dayne’s legacy is as much about character and impact as it is about touchdowns and trophies.
With this latest accolade, the “Great Dayne” continues to prove that his greatest plays are happening off the field.