Since the advent of television's popularity in so many households, watching sporting events has become commonplace all over the world. In fact, casually watching sports is the one common thread that connects the entire world. As of this massive viewership boom, many sports athletes have become consumed in fame, celebrity and intrigue, among other things. Over a hundred years ago, even as there were a few famous sports athletes, the idea of globalization and that of celebrity wasn't there. Nowadays, it seems as though people can't get any of their Michael Jordans and Lionel Messis' of the world. The future will see whether sports athletes will overtake film stars as the most 'important' celebrities in the world that are long-lasting as well.