Track and field, known as the "mother of sports," has a long and glorious history filled with remarkable athletes. Here are the top ten great track and field athletes:

**1. Carl Lewis**

Carl Lewis from the United States can be regarded as one of the most outstanding track and field athletes ever. He was dominant in both field and track events. In 1981, he set world records in the 100 meters (10.00 seconds) and long jump (8.62 meters). He won four consecutive Olympic gold medals in the 100 meters, long jump, 200 meters, and relay at the 1984 and 1988 Olympics. His achievements and influence in the track and field world are truly remarkable.

**2. Haile Gebreselassie**

This great Ethiopian long - distance runner was a phenomenon in the field of marathon. He broke multiple world records in different long - distance running events. From the 1500 meters to the marathon, he showed his unmatched endurance and speed. He won multiple Olympic and world championship titles during his long and successful career.

**3. Usain Bolt**

The "Lightning Bolt" from Jamaica revolutionized the sprint events. His world records in the 100 meters (9.58 seconds) and 200 meters (19.19 seconds) are extremely difficult to be approached. His charisma and incredible performance on the track made him an international sports star. He won multiple Olympic gold medals in sprint events, leaving a profound mark on the world of track and field.

**4. Svetlana Masterkova**

This Russian female athlete made great contributions to the track and field world. She showed outstanding ability in the middle - distance running events. Masterkova broke world records in the 800 meters and 1500 meters, demonstrating her strong competitive strength in these events and bringing honor to her country in international competitions.

**5. Jan Zelezny**

Known as one of the greatest javelin throwers in history. Zelezny's performance in javelin throwing was almost perfect. He broke the world record multiple times, and his javelin could fly incredibly far. His excellent technique and powerful physique made him a dominant force in this event for a long time.

**6. Jonathan Edwards**

The "Flying Scotsman," Jonathan Edwards, has a brilliant record in the triple jump. He set the world record in this event and won multiple world championships. His jumping ability and precise technique in the triple jump made him a legend in British track and field history.

**7. Michael Johnson**

Michael Johnson from the United States was a master in the 400 meters event. He not only broke the world record in the 400 meters but also showed great strength in relay events. Johnson's speed and endurance in the 400 meters were outstanding, making him a memorable athlete in track and field history.

**8. Jackie Joyner - Kersee**

A great female athlete from the United States, Joyner - Kersee was excellent in the heptathlon. She held the world record in this multi - event competition for a long time. Her comprehensive ability in various track and field events made her a very influential figure in women's track and field.

**9. Yuriy Sedykh**

Sedykh, a remarkable javelin thrower from the Soviet Union, was known for his long - distance throws. He won multiple Olympic gold medals and broke world records several times. His skill and physical quality in javelin throwing made him stand out in international competitions.

**10. Alberto Juantorena**

This Cuban athlete achieved great success in the 400 meters and 800 meters events. He was the first person to win Olympic gold medals in both events in the same Olympics, showing his extraordinary talent in track and field.

These ten track and field athletes have left precious wealth for the world of track and field with their excellent performance and indomitable spirit.