No. 1
Lance Armstrong
In 1996, just as he was entering the prime of his career, Lance Armstrong was diagnosed with testicular cancer that had spread to his lungs and brain. He was given a 50 percent chance of survival. After a grueling rehab, Armstrong returned to cycling and began an unprecedented period of dominance with his 1999 Tour De France victory. Now on the brink of his seventh straight title, Armstrong’s career has served as an inspiration for millions.