Athletes with Killer Instincts Since 1990: No. 9

9. David Beckham

I am not a big soccer fan. In fact, I find it hard to even watch the World Cup. Having said that, just because I am not the biggest soccer spectator, I still highly respect the sport and the athletes who play it. 

Unfortunately, I cannot analyze Beckham as extensively as others because I would end up sounding like an ignorant fool due to my lack of soccer knowledge.  However, from what I understand, Beckham may not have been as gifted as Ronaldinho or Ronaldo, but was perhaps one of the hardest working and passionate soccer players to ever represent the sport. Beckham, who had a 20 year career, once stated that "I just want people to see me as a hard working footballer, someone that's passionate about the game." 

What many people fail to understand is that greats, such as Jordan, Woods, or Beckham, play at such an elite level not merely because of their talent, but also because of their work ethic and drive. For, when you compete at the highest level, many players are extremely talented. It's the ones with the work ethic and desire to be great who excel the most. Beckham deserves a place on this list. And, let's not forget, he did win numerous individual and team awards, such as the first Englishman to win league titles in four different countries (England, Spain, USA, France).

No. 10: Greg Maddux