Australia’s top 100 athletes

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WHEN we published the first list of Australia's top 100 athletes last year, the reaction was unanimous — everyone disagreed with either the names selected or the order in which they were placed.

Which was hardly surprising. Comparing athletes in different sports is difficult enough. Take in the prejudices of, for example, NRL fans against those of AFL, football or rugby fans and you are on a hiding to nothing.

But the debate alone made the exercise worthwhile. So here we go again.

Richard Hinds gives his rundown of Australia's top 100 athletes. Source: Supplied

Before expressing your disgust please remember this is not a list of the current 100 best performed athletes. Rather the rankings are based on both the athlete's current performance and their career achievements. It also gives consideration to overall contribution to their sport, public profile and leadershiptheir rankings last year — where applicable — is in brackets).

We have also taken into account the feedback received about last year's list and included a couple of athletes who were overlooked.

That said we don't expect to get them all right. But we're sure you'll let us know.

Michael Clarke displayed superb leadership with Australia while Scott was ranked No 1 Source: News Corp Australia

1 (2) Michael Clarke

Achievement: Led Australia as they completed whitewash Ashes victory and a 2-1 victory in South Africa. Important centuries in Cape Town and Adelaide took his Test total to 28 despite continued injury problems.

Ranking: Superb leadership on and off the field in the most difficult situation imaginable enhanced Clarke's glowing reputation as batsman and captain.

2 (1) Adam Scott

Achievement: Held the No.1 ranking in May and subsequently won the Crown Plaza Invitational. Very consistent season with ten top ten finishes on the US PGA Tour, but unable to add to his US Masters victory at the majors.

Ranking: Another very solid year, but loses the top spot after failing to match his stellar 2013 home or away.

Pearson won gold at the Commonwealth Games while Ricciardo had a phenomenal year with Red Bull Source: News Corp Australia

3 (4) Sally Pearson

Achievement: Won the 110 metres hurdles at the Commonwealth Games despite poor lead-in form and coaching controversies. Underlined her reputation as one of Australia's most talented and tenacious competitors in trying circumstances.

Ranking: Elevated on her tough Commonwealth Games effort despite a relatively quiet season in other major events.

4 (72) Daniel Ricciardo

Achievement: Amazing first year replacing countryman Mark Webber at Red Bull. Won three grands prix, finished third in the F1 driver's championship ahead of teammate Sebastien Vettel and marked himself as a future champion.

Ranking: Rated very highly given his three victories demonstrated enormous talent and were in defiance of the loaded deck most No.2 drivers face.

Cahill was the Socceroos standout performer at the World Cup while Inglis has become the NRL's most dangerous player Source: AP

5 (31) Tim Cahill

Achievement: An enormous impact for the Socceroos at the World Cup was a reminder of his world class talent. Scored one of the goals of the tournament against The Netherlands and remains Australia's premier performer and most potent attacking weapon.

Ranking: Soars from last year's No.31 on the back of World Cup form and continued excellence in New York.

6 (15) Greg Inglis

Achievement: Has become the NRL and world rugby league's best and most dangerous player. Crucial element in South Sydney's drought-breaking premiership team and a continued threat in Origin despite Queensland's defeat.

Ranking: Has continued to grow both as a player and club man now has a strong influence both on and off the field.

Bigut overcame a long list of injuries whiel Whincup won his sixth V8 title Source: Getty Images

7 (7) Andrew Bogut

Achievement: Having overcome a long series of injuries has become one of the NBA's most influential big men for the play-off bound Golden State Warriors. Has gained prominence in a more attacking role this season.

Ranking: Same as last year – but this time ranked on performance not past record/potential.

8 (12) Jamie Whincup

Achievement: Won his sixth V8 Supercar championship in seven years breaking the tie with Mark Skaife, Dick Johnson and Ian Geoghegan. Again dominated his sport with a rare combination of speed and unerring consistency.

Ranking: Continues to dominate an increasingly popular sport and has set a lofty historical landmark.

Campbell spearheaded the 4x100m team while Gilmore won her sixth title Source: AP

9 (14) Cate Campbell

Achievement: The 2013 world champion spearheaded the Australian 4 x 100 metres freestyle relay team that beat the ''supersuit'' world record at the Commonwealth Games. Also won individual gold in the 100 metres freestyle.

Ranking: Brilliant performer in the pool and an intelligent and eloquent spokesperson for her sport.

10 (29) Stephan Gilmore

Achievement: Won her sixth world surfing title after a tight struggle with fellow Australians Tyler Wright and Sally Fitzgibbons. Just one short of Layne Beachley's record seven titles.

Ranking: Returned to the summit after losing her crown in 2013 and now an undisputed surfing great.

Ablettremains the AFL's elite performer while Johnson completed a remarkable comeback. Source: News Corp Australia

11 (6) Gary Ablett

Achievement: Remains the AFL's elite performer and could have won a third Brownlow Medal if not for a late season injury. In his impact and consistency now features in the argument about the game's greatest players.

Ranking: Dips slightly after missing late games but remains, comfortably, the stand-out performer in a very competitive league.

12 (30) Mitchell Johnson

Achievement: Completed his remarkable comeback from form and injury problems by completing the Ashes whitewash in Sydney and starring in the series victory in South Africa. Fearsome pace and a very marketable moustache.

Ranking: From scud missiles to attacking weapon now the world's premier strike bowler and Australia's lynchpin for the World Cup and Ashes.

Folau had a brilliant year while Thurston won his third Dally M medal Source: AP

13 (20) Israel Folau

Achievement: The brilliant full-back is a global star in his third professional code despite the Wallabies faltering performances. Integral part of the Waratahs Super Rugby triumph despite the added attention of wary defences.

Ranking: No second year blues for Folau who remains the shining light for the game in Australia.

14 (11) Johnathan Thurston

Achievement: Joint winner of the Dally M Medal – his third. Also named five-eighth of the year and won the Proven Summons Medal as the game's most popular player after yet another stellar year with the serially unlucky Cowboys.

Ranking: The brilliant ball-handler remains one of the NRL's best and most consistent players.

Warner cemented himself as a premier batsman while Gerrans had a phenomenal year Source: GoldCoastBulletin

15 (43) David Warner

Achievement: Once cast as a limited overs slogger, Warner has long changed that perception. Six Test centuries in 2014 – two in a match twice – cemented his reputation as one of the world's premier batsmen in all forms of the game.

Ranking: Warner's punishing batting has made him both a matchwinner and contemporary prototype.

16 (23) Simon Gerrans

Achievement: Started year brilliantly winning national road race title, the Tour Down Under and the Liege-Bastogne-Liege. Crashed out of the Tour de France but shapes as Australia's major threat in the world's leading races.

Ranking: Assumes Cadel Evans' place as top ranked cyclist on both form and potential.

Mills won a title with Spurs while perry starred in Australia's T20 World Cup winning team Source: Supplied

17 (94) Patrick Mills

Achievement: Went from bit-part player to NBA title-winning star with the San Antonio Spurs. His 14 point blitz for the Spurs in the third period of the title-clinching game five was one of the individual performances of the year.

Ranking: Rises rapidly on the back of his play-off heroics and vastly elevated status in the NBA.

18 (37) Ellyse Perry

Achievement: As the first woman to play both cricket and football's World Cup, Australia's premier multi-sport athlete. More prominent on the cricket pitch this year including a starring role in the T20 World Cup winning team.

Ranking: Rises on the back of an influential role with the impressive Southern Stars.

Jason Day remains one of the world's elite golfers and will be looking for his first major this year. Source: Getty Images

19 (13) Jason Day

Achievement: Won the Accenture World Matchplay Championship and finished tied-4th at US Open. Rose briefly to world No.4 but battled injuries in the second half of the year and subsequently dropped to No.8.

Ranking: Injury meant he was not the same threat as in previous seasons but remains one of the game's great talents.

20 (5) James Spithill

Achievement: Not a momentous year in competition for the back-to-back America's Cup winning sailor. But was named International Sailor of the Year in after Team America's amazing comeback from 1-8 in the 2013 America's Cup.

Ranking: Maintains a ranking based on international recognition of his amazing feats.

Smith has had a remarkable rise while Webb won the Australian Open Source: News Corp Australia

21 (-) Steve Smith

Achievement: Has made a remarkable rise from struggling leg-spinner to all-rounder to outstanding specialist batsmen and stand-in Australian captain. Ranked in the world's top 10 batsmen for the first time after a prolific series against India.

Ranking: Assuming the captaincy only added to Smith's vastly improved status as a bone fide Test star and leader

22 (27) Karrie Webb

Achievement: The incredibly durable Webb had a renaissance season winning the Australian Open, her 41st USLPGA title and finishing second in the Evian Championship. At 40 is ranked No.9 in the world in an increasingly competitive and youth-oriented sport.

Ranking: On both current form and longevity remains one of Australia's outstanding performers.

Evans won the Giro de Trentino while hayne had a breathtaking season Source: News Corp Australia

23 (8) Cadel Evans

Achievement: Winding down his stellar career toward retirement in February. Still finished a close second in the Tour Down Under, won the Giro de Trentino and was eighth in the Giro d'Italia. Did not ride the Tour de France.

Ranking: Retains high status based on career achievement and continued competitive performances.

24 (92) Jarryd Hayne

Achievement: The joint Dally M Medallist had a breathtaking season for Parramatta and was crucial part of the winning NSW State of Origin team. Returned to the form that had made him one of the game's greatest attacking threats before shock move to American football.

Ranking: Zooms up the rankings on the back of a stellar year. Will he climb higher as a two-sport star?

Jedinak captained the Socceroos at the World Cup while Meares became Australia's most successful female Commonwealth Games rider Source: News Corp Australia

25 (51) Mile Jedinak

Achievement: Captained the Socceroos as the World Cup. Voted the Asian Football Confederation international player of the year on the back of his consistent performances at the elite level with Crystal Palace in the Premier League.

Ranking: Had only a moderate World Cup but now Australia's flag-bearer at the highest level.

26 (16) Anna Meares

Won gold in the time trial and silver in the sprint to become Australia's most successful female Commonwealth Games rider. Loss to teammate Stephanie Morton in the sprint was unexpected, but continues to build toward Rio Olympics.

Achievement: Solid year for the 2012 Olympic gold medallist and retains a high placing.

Fox won two titles in 2014 while Magnussen retained his status as one of the country's best swimmers. Source: News Limited

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7 (25) Jessica Fox

Achievement: In an outstanding season the Olympic silver medallist became the first paddler to win both the C1 and K1 world titles in the same year having already won both events at the world under-23 championships in Penrith.

Ranking: At 20 already becoming the dominant performer in her sport.

28 (17) James Magnussen

Achievement: The world champion and Olympic silver medallist retained his status as Australia's outstanding sprinter by winning the Commonwealth Games gold medal. Beat Cameron McEvoy who had taken his national title.

Ranking: Slides in a non-Olympic/world championship year. But on track for world champs in Russia next year.

Fanning won a third Bells Beach title while belcher won a fifth world title. Source: Getty Images

29 (9) Mick Fanning

Achievement: Lost his world title after being eliminated early in the season ending event. But won a third Bells Beach title and finished second in the rankings after another excellent season.

Ranking: Just short of holding his place at the summit but still a peak performer in his sport.

30 (19) Mathew Belcher

Achievement: With partner Will Ryan the Olympic gold medallist won a record fifth consecutive world title (the second with Ryan) in the 470 class. Yachting Australia's sailor of the year also won a test event on the Olympic course in Rio and the Sailing World Cup final in Abu Dhabi.

Ranking: Merely underlined his status as one of the world's best sailors with another outstanding season.

Hodge captained Hawthorn to back-to-back titles while harris was an all round great performer Source: News Corp Australia

31 (33) Luke Hodge

Achievement: The tough, durable Hawthorn skipper is among the AFL's most influential players and, as captain of the back-to-back premiership winning Hawks, its most assertive leader. Has a massive impact on his team's fortunes.

Ranking: Leadership role and Hawthorn's success takes him higher than arguably more talented players.

32 (26) Ryan Harris

Achievement: Made his mark with big hauls in the last Test against England and third against South Africa and returned well from a knee injury in series against India. Despite the wear and tear remains one of Australian sport's most wholehearted performers.

Ranking: Keep defying age and miles on the clock and could still be a crucial part of this year's Ashes campaign.

Geitz led Australia to Commonwealth gold while Smith remains an influential figure in the NRL Source: News Corp Australia

33 (67) Laura Geitz

Achievement: Led Australia to Commonwealth Games netball gold for first time in 12 years and Queensland Firebirds to the grand final. The 2011 world champion is the defensive lynchpin of the dominant Australian team.

Ranking: Starring as player, leader and spokesperson for a team as its competitive peak.

34 (3) Cameron Smith

Achievement: Not a great year from a team perspective for the outstanding captain with the Storm, Queensland and Australia failing to win a title. But remains an influential figure both as player and leader at all levels.

Ranking: Rated more on leadership and outstanding record than personal performances this time.

Fearnley won a fifth New York marathon while Lanning had a stand out year Source: News Corp Australia

35 (70) Kurt Fearnley

Achievement: The three-time Paralympic champion followed his silver medal in the 1500 metres at the Commonwealth Games by winning a fifth New York marathon in tough conditions. Veteran star continues to excel in middle and long distances.

Ranking: Tough New York marathon victory added another chapter to a remarkable career.

36 (84) Meg Lanning

Achievement: The punishing 22 year-old batter has established herself as one of the world's best. Starred in Australia's T20 World Cup winning team smashing 126 from 65 balls against Ireland and top-scoring in the final.

Ranking: An accomplished and articulate performer already dominating in her sport.

Ryan had a solid World Cup with the Socceroos while Selwood continues to excel Source: Getty Images

37 (58) Matthew Ryan

Achievement: Socceroos goalkeeper had a solid World Cup despite one blemish. In brilliant form across two seasons with Belgian Club Brugge where the relatively diminutive stopper is attracting interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs.

Ranking: Firmly established as Australia's premier goalkeeper and highly regarded in Europe.

38 (24) Joel Selwood

Achievement: Continues to excel as one of the AFL's toughest ball-winners and most influential skippers. Value has been accentuated as the fortunes of his team wane slightly.

Ranking: Falls somewhat with the performance of his team but still in the top bracket.

Slater had a consistent season with Storm while Bright took silver in the half-pipe Source: News Limited

39 (28) Billy Slater

Achievement: A consistent but not – by his lofty standards – spectacular season for Melbourne, Queensland and Australia. Retained his place as Maroons full-back despite Greg Inglis's performance at club level but could be challenged now.

Ranking: Sliding inevitably like some of his fellow Queensland veterans but still in the elite category.

40 (-) Torah Bright

Achievement: Could not quite repeat her 2010 gold but a silver medal in the half-pipe at Sochi made Bright Australia's most successful Winter Olympian. Has used a gift for self-promotion to create a strong brand.

Ranking: Performances over two Olympics and strong profile afford the Winter Olympian a prominent position.

Ken Wallace successfully defended his world K1 5000 title in Moscow. Source: Supplied

41 (36) Ken Wallace

Achievement: The 2008 Olympic gold medallist successfully defended his world K1 5000 title in Moscow during yet another dominant season. The 31 also finished second with Lachlan Tame in the K2 1000.

Ranking: At 31 an enduring success in a tough sport and considering a crack at the Rio Olympics.

42 (-) Lance Franklin

Achievement: The $10 million Swan began to justify his price tag after a slow start with some brilliant performances. Kicked 79 goals in 22 games, led the Swans charge to the grand final and put the club back in the spotlight.

Ranking: Brilliant natural talent back to career best form under enormous scrutiny.

Stosur remains Australia's highest ranked while Hooper handled captaincy well. Source: News Limited

43 (18) Samantha Stosur

Achievement: A relatively poor year by previous standards failing to get past the fourth round at any grand slam. Finished strongly winning in Osaka and making a semi-final in Beijing and with a world ranking of 23.

Ranking: Still Australia's top ranked player – male or female – but falls on the back of a quiet year.

44 (73) Michael Hooper

Achievement: The young skipper was one of the success stories in a difficult year for the Wallabies. Handled the captaincy well and consistently one of the best players at both club and national level.

Ranking: Double points for leadership and performance in a team still finding its way.

Crow had a consistent year while Bowman remains Sydney's premier jockey Source: News Limited

45 (21) Kim Crow

Achievement: Was unable to retain her world single skulls title finishing second to Kiwi Emma Twigg, who also beat her in the World Cup event in Sydney. But another consistent year by Australia's premier rower.

Ranking: A couple of seconds off back-to-back world titles but remains both a great competitor and an outstanding ambassador for women's sport.

46 (40) Hugh Bowman

Achievement: With a phenomenal strike rate Bowman remains Sydney's premier jockey despite the challenge of prolific youngsters such as Kiwi James McDonald. Finished the year in exceptional form after a stint in Hong Kong.

Ranking: Accomplished performer who always gives his rides the best possible chance.

lleyton's durability continues to astound while Taylor made a brilliant comeback from injury. Source: News Corp Australia

47 (50) Lleyton Hewitt

Achievement: The 33 year-old's durability continues to astound with two ATP titles including a finals victory over Roger Federer in Brisbane. Helped Australia retains its world group status in Davis Cup. Improved his world ranking from 60 to 50.

Achievement: The veteran competitor goes up at an age when most are in a tailspin.

48 (-) Penny Taylor

Achievement: Brilliant comeback year for the 33 year-old after a serious knee injury. Helped lead Phoenix Mercury to the WNBA title and Australia to a bronze medal at the world championship where she was named in the All-Star five.

Ranking: Has played, literally, in the shadows of Lauren Jackson but now acknowledged for an accomplished career.

Cronk remains an elite decision maker while Lassila won bronze in Sochi Source: Getty Images

49 (32) Cooper Cronk

Achievement: Not a stellar year for the Storm, Queensland and Australian champion with a broken arm ruining his Origin campaign. But remains with ''big three'' stablemates Smith and Slater a wonderful player and elite decision-maker at all levels.

Ranking: Rated heavily on past achievement but continues to perform well at the top level.

50 (-) Lydia Lassila

Achievement: The 2010 gold medallist won bronze in the freestyle aerials in Sochi to confirm her place as one of Australia's greatest Winter Olympians. Only Torah Bright has achieved more at the top level.

Ranking: Had Lassila landed her quad-twisting triple somersault she might have been a dual gold medallist. But still a significant achievement.

Oliver won his ninth jockey's premiership while Porte gained elevated status with team Sky. Source: The Advertiser

51 (59) Damien Oliver

Achievement: Continues to excel as both a big race and week-in week-out rider. Won his ninth Victorian jockey's premiership and seventh Scobie Beasley Medal which rewards excellence in Victorian riding.

Ranking: Sustained excellence and durability gives Oliver the edge on many talented rivals.

52 (66) Richie Porte

Achievement: Third behind Simon Gerrans and Cadel Evans in national road race championship. Was thrust into the leadership of the Sky team during the Tour De France after Chris Froome's injury and finished 23rd overall.

Ranking: After a moderate year by high standards elevated slightly on seniority with Sky and vast potential.

Buchanan clinched the World Cup series while Robinson was Australia's best player Source: News Corp Australia

53 (74) Caroline Buchanan

Achievement: The BMX champion crashed out of the world championship race and failed to defend her title despite winning a silver medal in the time trial. But returned to clinch the World Cup series for a second time and remains one of Australia's brightest Olympic prospects.

54 (-) Madi Robinson

Achievement: Won the Liz Ellis Diamond as Australia's best player for the second time and named international player of the year a member of Australia's Commonwealth Games gold medal winning team. Integral part of Melbourne Vixens' championship.

Ranking: Hard-working and energetic star is one of the success stories of a highly successful national team.

Kyrgios gained world renown after beating Nadal while Carfrae retained her world title. Source: News Corp Australia

55 (-) Nick Kyrgios

Achievement: The Canberra prodigy stunned Rafael Nadal at Wimbledon where he reached the quarter-finals. Moved from 182 to 52 in the world rankings and his one of the game's rising stars.

Ranking: Enormous potential and incredible year deserves high ranking but marked down slightly as he is yet to win a full ATP Tour event.

56 (79) Mirinda Carfrae

Achievement: Retained her World Ironman Title in Hawaii winning the arduous event for a third time. Has finished on the podium in each of six attempts. Amazing tough and consistent performer in one of sport's toughest competitions.

Ranking: Deserves massive kudos for consistency in a brutally taxing sport.

DCE was one of the standout players from the 2014 season while Robertson held the No 1 ranking Source: Supplied

57 (80) Daly Cherry-Evans

Achievement: The gifted Queenslander continued to dominate at club level for Manly despite continued bench time for Queensland and Australia. Halves partnership with Kiwi Kieran Foran one of the best in the game.

Ranking: Wonderful talent and potential looks ready to dominate given more opportunities with the Kangaroos and Maroons in 2015.

58 (60) Neil Robertson

Achievement: The freakish high-scorer made a record 103 century breaks, was a semi-finalist in the World Snooker Championships and held the No.1 ranking during 2014 before finishing the season at No.3.

Ranking: The former world champion is a phenomenal talent near the top of his sport.

Morris won silver in Sochi while Dellacqua claimed a career high ranking of 29 Source: News Limited

59 (-) David Morris

Achievement: The former gymnast won a silver medal in the aerials at Sochi where he was the first Australian male aerialist to compete in consecutive Winter Olympics. Joint winner of the Australian Ski and Snowboard Athlete of the Year.

Ranking: Did not dominate his sport throughout the season but produced a brilliant effort in the peak competition.

60 (-) Casey Dellacqua

Achievement: A four-time grand slam doubles finalist, Dellacqua moved from outside the top 100 to a career high ranking of No.29 in singles after a series of consistent results in major events.

Ranking: Reward for perseverance and hard work by a player who started the year playing qualifying.

Bassett was unstoppable at the Commonwealth Games while Horrie defended his world title Source: News Corp Australia

61 (-) Caitlin Bassett

Achievement: The relentless goal shooter became unstoppable as the Australians went on an unbeaten run that included the Commonwealth Games gold medal. Tall and muscular, she has proven almost to counter.

Ranking: Puts the icing on the cake for the Australians with her strength and precision.

62 (85) Erik Horrie

The Paralympic silver medallist defended his single scull (ASM1x) world championship in Amsterdam. Named the World Rowing Para Rower of the Year for 2014.

Ranking: The outstanding sculler backed up his outstanding performance in Korea with a second world title.

Batt won the world championship while Gill won the W-League golden boot Source: AFP

63 (87) Ryley Batt

The veteran star capped a brilliant career by inspiring the Parlympic champion Steelers to their first wheelchair rugby world championship. Scored 45 goals in the 67-56 finals victory over Canada.

Ranking: A tough and charismatic performer who has done much to promote his sport.

64 (90) Katie Gill

Achievement: The Matilda's striker won the W-League Golden Boot with 13 goals and led Perth Glory to the grand final. Became Australia's all-time leading goal scorer during the Asian Cup.

Ranking: Can cap an outstanding career with a big performance at the 2015 Women's World Cup.

His role in NSW's Origin win deserves recognition while McEvoybeat Magnussen Source: Supplied

65 (63) Paul Gallen

Achievement: A hugely controversial year for the NSW and Cronulla skipper ending with a drugs suspension. But his wholehearted play in role in NSW's State of Origin revival deserves recognition.

Ranking: Based purely on performance Gallen remains indisputably one of the NRL's best and most influential players.

66 (-) Cameron McEvoy

Achievement: Beat main rival James Magnussen in 100 metres freestyle at the National Championships and the Pan Pacific Championships. Won silver behind Magnussen at the Commonwealth Games.

Ranking: Touched out by his rival in the year's major competition but in the elite class in his sport's most significant event.

Milligan was one of the best performers in the A-League while Giteau has been in outstanding form Source: News Corp Australia

67 (-) Mark Milligan

Achievement: The Melbourne Victory captain is one of the best and most consistent performers in the A-League and stand-out among the home-based Socceroos. Did not have an outstanding World Cup but remains a vital cog in the national team.

Ranking: Consistency and impact rates highly despite choosing to play in the A-League rather than overseas.

68 (-) Matt Giteau (rugby)

Achievement: The veteran back's outstanding form is justifying his lucrative contract with French glamour team Toulon. One of the main reasons many want the ban on overseas-based players representing the Wallabies ended.

Ranking: Yet another outstanding season justifies Giteau's high ranking despite his self-imposed exile from the national squad.

McKeon won four golds at the Commonwealth Games while Gorry was named player of the year Source: News Corp Australia

69 (-) Emma McKeon

Achievement: Australia's most prolific medallist at the Commonwealth Games where she won four gold medals and two bronze including the 200 metres freestyle gold. Was part of Australia's world record breaking 4 x 100 metres relay team.

Ranking: Emerging star will fly even higher if she follows Comm. Games heroics with prominent performances at the World Championships and Olympics.

70 (-) Katrina Gorry

Achievement: The Matilda's midfielder was voted the Asian Football Confederation player of the year after scoring three goals on the way to the final against Japan. Stand-out performer with Brisbane Roar in W-League and also plays with Kansas City in the America's NWSL.

Ranking: The diminutive star of the Matilda's Asian Cup team can enhance her standing further at the 2015 World Cup.

Pendlebury had a very consistent year while Cowdrey won silver in the S9 100. Source: News Corp Australia

71 (54) Scott Pendlebury

Achievement: The new Collingwood captain had another extremely consistent season in a team that floundered in the second half of the season and was named All-Australian for a fifth consecutive season.

Ranking: The smooth-moving midfielder is still in the top echelon despite the decline of his high profile team.

72 (38) Matthew Cowdrey

Achievement: The three-time Paralympic champion won silver in the S9 100 metres freestyle behind young sensation Rowan Crothers. The law student had a limited preparation after spending three months working in the US for a Congresswoman.

Ranking: Still an elite performer but facing a stern challenge from Crothers to retain his status.

Kuridrani is already a mainstay of the national team while O'Hanlon had a tough year Source: News Corp Australia

73 (-) Tevita Kuridrani (rugby)

Achievement: The cousin of Lote Tuqiri and Noa Nadruka, Kuridrani's pace and power were an asset for the Brumbies and, particularly, the Wallabies in a difficult year. The Fijian born outside-centre is already a mainstay of the national team.

Ranking: Confirmed his place as a top-flight international and can enhance his reputation at the 2015 World Cup.

74 (45) Evan O'Hanlon

The five-time Paralympic gold medallist and 100m, 200m and 400m world champion's season was disrupted by meningitis. Plans to take on open class athletes in the 100 metres at next year's national championships.

Ranking: Illness late in 2013 had an impact but retains his place as one of the world's dominant performers in his event.

Slingsby remains one of Australia's best sailors while Micle was named Australian female athlete of the year Source: Supplied

75 (22) Tom Slingsby

The Olympic and five times Laser World Champion did not compete consistently in the class he had dominated this year choosing instead to race in a series of other classes and events.

Ranking: Hard to rank this year given he competed in various categories but remains one of Australia's most highly regarded sailors

76 (-) Kim Mickle

Achievement: The javelin star won Australian female athlete of the year ahead of Sally Pearson after winning the Commonwealth Games gold medal, breaking the national record and finishing on the podium at every Diamond League meeting.

Ranking: Ultra-consistent performer on the international stage who finally gained the spotlight in Glasgow.

Eckstein retained the world title while Lowndes finished fourth in the V8 championship Source: News Corp Australia

77 (-) Shannon Eckstein

Achievement: Equalled Trevor Hendy's record of six national ironman titles. Retained the world ironman title he has won five times and has won the national ironman series eight times.

Ranking: Ultra-consistent performer in an iconic Australian sport.

78 (68) Craig Lowndes

Achievement: The five-times Bathurst champion finished fourth in the V8 championship after being runner-up to Jamie Whincup in the previous three years and tenth at Bathurst.

Ranking: Slips after a relatively lean season but deserves his place on consistent performance and career achievement.

Toomua had a positive year while Exum is making his way through his first NBA season Source: News Corp Australia

79 (-) Matt Toomua

Achievement: The Brumbies' five-eighth and Wallabies No.12 kicks, runs and defends like a back-rower. Still can't claim to be the most versatile athlete in his house as he's engaged to cricketer/footballer Ellyse Perry.

Ranking: Another bright light for the Wallabies who can make further strides during a World Cup year.

80 Dante Exum

Achievement: At just 19 the No.5 pick in the NBA draft is feeling his way in his first NBA season with the Utah Jazz but has already shown his vast potential with some double-digit scoring games.

Rating: Already some American critics who ridiculed Exum's high selection have raved about his extraordinary talent.

Tyler came close to a world title while Lyon remains one of the game's elite performers Source: Supplied

81 (-) Tyler Wright

Achievement: Again came close to winning the world title before losing in the final of the season-ending event to open the door for Stephanie Gilmore. Finished season No.2 in the world.

Ranking: Part of a great Australian triple-threat on the international waves with Gilmore and Sally Fitzgibbons.

82 (-) Jamie Lyon

Achievement: The Dally M centre of the year and captain of the year remains one of the game's elite performers despite his self-imposed four year exile from representative rugby league.

Ranking: No nonsense star's club performances demand a place despite lack of Origin and Kangaroos caps since 2010.

Shelley won Commonwealth Gold while Finch smashed four centuries for Australia Source: News Corp Australia

83 (-) Michael Shelley

Achievement: The marathoner emulated the feats of Robert de Castella and Steve Moneghetti beating a field that included several African stars to win the Commonwealth Games gold medal. The Australian athlete of the year had previously won silver at Delhi.

Ranking: Excellent performance in an arduous event against tough opposition warrants high consideration.

84 (-) Aaron Finch

Achievement: Smashed four ODI centuries for Australia – two each against England and South Africa – and continued to stamp himself as one of the world's premier short-form sluggers. A multi-franchise domestic T20 star.

Ranking: A contemporary cricket poster-boy thriving with only limited first class success.

Ryan won a second title while Hodkinson helped NSW to Origin victory Source: AFP

85 (-) Will Ryan

Achievement: With partner Mathew Belcher won a second world title in the 470 class. Also won a test event on the Olympic course in Rio, the Sailing World Cup final in Abu Dhabi and two of the four World Cup events.

Ranking: Not yet an Olympic champion like crew mate Belcher but consecutive world championships worthy of high recognition.

86 (-) Trent Hodkinson

Achievement: The brilliant Canterbury half-back was a revelation helping NSW break its long drought against Queensland and taking the Bulldogs to an unexpected grand final appearance. Scored the winning try in the decisive Origin game two.

Ranking: A smart, influential player who had a major hand in some of the biggest games of the season.

Roughead was key to Hawthorn's winning season while Campbell had a breakthrough season Source: News Corp Australia

87 (-) Jarryd Roughead

Achievement: The big forward was a key component in back-to-back Hawthorn premiership teams. Doesn't get the spotlight like former teammate Buddy Franklin but just as effective.

Ranking: Midfielders get most of the accolades but forwards are still matchwinners.

88 (-) Bronte Campbell

Achievement: Narrowly beaten by sister Cate in the 100 metres freestyle at the Commonwealth Games and ranked third in the world in the event. Part of Australia's world record breaking 4 x 100 metres freestyle relay team.

Ranking: A fingernail from upstaging her accomplished big sister and now a star in her own right.

Schwarzer retired from international duty while Baynes has earny himself a place in a well respected team Source: News Limited

89 (34) Mark Schwarzer

Achievement: The great Socceroos goalkeeper retired from national duty and has been mostly inactive with Chelsea. Recent move to Leicester City means he should have more game time.

Ranking: Incredible longevity at the highest level means he keeps a spot despite spending much time on the bench.

90 (-) Aron Baynes

Won an NBA Championship mainly as a bench player with Patrick Mills at the San Antonio Spurs. Understudy to champion centre Tim Duncan but has improved in his second NBA season when given decent minutes.

Rating: Much travelled big man has earnt a place in one of the best teams in the toughest league.

Willoughby won his second championship while Balfour remains the best Aussie in the MLB Source: News Corp Australia

91 (-) Sam Willoughby

Achievement: The 2012 Olympic silver medallist won his second world BMX championships in the Netherlands. Completed the double by winning the trial world title.

Ranking: Continuing on from his Olympic form and already one of Australia's big hopes for Rio.

92 (49) Grant Balfour

Achievement: Not a great year for the closing pitcher who had a disappointing season upon his return to the Tampa Bay Rays by previous high standards. But at 36 remains Australia's best performed player in the major leagues.

Ranking: Just keeps his spot after a disappointing year based on his previous excellence at the highest level.

Rowan Crothers broke the S9 100 metres freestyle world record to win the national champs and Commonwealth Games gold. Source: News Limited

93 (-) Rowan Crothers

Achievement: Twice broke the S9 100 metres freestyle world record to win both the national championships and the Commonwealth Games gold medal. Beat multi-Paralympic champion Mathew Cowdrey both times. Silver medal in the S9 400 freestyle at the Para Pan Pacs.

Ranking: The 16 year-old came up with big performances against the toughest opposition.

94 (-) Alex Edmondson

Achievement: Young track cycling star won both the individual and team pursuit at the World Championships in Columbia and silver in the individual and gold in the team pursuit at the Commonwealth Games. Also won the omnium and madison at the national championships.

Ranking: Rising star fulfilled potential with first senior world title and is one of the brightest hopes for Rio Olympics.

Knowles captained the Australia team while De Vanna remained a vital member of the Matildas Source: News Corp Australia

95 (-) Mark Knowles

Achievement: The robust defender was captain of the Australian hockey team that won the World Cup and Commonwealth Games gold medal. Player of the tournament at the World Cup and named in the World All-Stars team for a third time.

Ranking: World class defender and the Kookaburra's rock during a highly successful year.

96 (48) Lisa De Vanna

Achievement: A relatively quiet year for the Matilda's striker who played in both the National Women's Soccer League in the US and the W-League. But remains a vital part of the Matilda's 2015 Women's World Cup campaign.

Ranking: Past achievements and value to national team mean De Vanna remains highly regarded.

Elliot claimed a world record while Fitzgibbons came close to the world title. Source: News Corp Australia

97 (93) Sally Fitzgibbons

Achievement: Again narrowly missed a chance to seize the world title when eliminated in the heats in the final event. Second in the world rankings in 2010, 2011 and 2012, third in 2013 and fourth in 2014.

Ranking: Again just pipped by nemesis Stephanie Gilmore but remains a wonderfully consistent performer.

98 (-) Maddison Elliott

Achievement: The 15 year-old broke the world record in winning the 100m S8 freestyle at the Commonwealth Games. Won three gold (100 metres butterfly, 50 metres freestyle, 100 metres backstroke) and four silver medals at the Para Pac championships. A relay gold medallist at the London Olympics when just 13.

Ranking: Youngster marked highly on a series of outstanding results across her two major competitions.

Tomic looks to be on the up while Mundine redeemed himself. Source: AP

99 (100) Anthony Mundine

Achievement: Redeemed what might have been a disappointing year by following his defeat to Joshua Clottey with a split decision over the previously undefeated Sergey Rabchenko for which he drew a big Melbourne crowd.

Ranking: Earned a promotion from last year's No.100 after taking on some more substantial opponents.

100 (83) Bernard Tomic

Achievement: The always controversial Tomic reached the final in Sydney and won an ATP title in Bogota to maintain a world ranking of No.56. Quiet year in the majors and yet to convert obvious talent to consistent achievement.

Ranking: Prodigy or waster? Maintains a place despite feeling he is yet to dedicate himself fully.

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