Muhammad Ali

The medal honors those who have made significant contributions to African and African-American history and culture, intercultural understanding and human rights.

Ali was so much more than a boxer.

Fierce and funny, The Greatest stood for his ideals when it was hard.

On Broadway, much like in the big game, you only get one shot at the glory. Here's a look at five athletes who have gone for it on The Great White Way and lived to tell the tale.