Synonyms for athlete

player, acrobat, gymnast, ballplayer, contestant, competitor, champion, sportsman, sportswoman, amateur, professional, semi-professional, contender, challenger, jock*, varsity man*, letterman*.

Athletes include: baseball player, football player, basketball player, soccer player, volleyball player, boxer, pugilist, wrestler, swimmer, diver, golfer, tennis player, badminton player, jockey, trackman, marathoner, javelin thrower, high-jumper, discus thrower, shot putter, weight lifter, skier, ski jumper, slalom racer, runner, jogger, long-jumper, pole vaulter, hurdler, bowler, polo player, hockey player, skater, bicyclist, fencer, swordsman.