Leap Day, also known as February 29, happens once in a four-year cycle, and 2024 marks one of those special occurrences.

Individuals born on Leap Day experience a distinctive birthday, with their age advancing only once every four years.

In non-leap years, those born on Leap Day typically celebrate their birthdays on either February 28 or March 1. However, the specific date their legal age progresses may vary depending on the jurisdiction.

Here are the best athletes acknowledged to have been born on Leap Day.

6 best athletes born on February 29

1. Darren Ambrose

Darren Ambrose, an English former footballer, was born on Leap Day in 1984. He had a noteworthy career from 2001 to 2016, during which he played for several teams in England, including six seasons in the Premier League.

Ambrose contributed his skills to Ipswich Town, Newcastle United, Charlton Athletic, Crystal Palace, Birmingham City, and Colchester United.

In addition to his domestic career, he had a brief loan spell in the Super League Greece with Apollon Smyrnis during the 2013-14 season. Ambrose was also a part of England's U20 and U21 teams.

2. Al Rosen

Al Rosen, born on Leap Day in 1924, served as a third baseman for ten seasons with the Cleveland Indians from 1947 to 1956.

His remarkable career included four consecutive All-Star appearances from 1952 to 1955, a World Series championship in 1948, and the AL MVP in 1953.

Rosen also secured the AL home run leader title in 1950 and 1953 and was a two-time AL RBI leader in 1952 and 1953.

3. Eric Kendricks

Eric Kendricks, born on Leap Day in 1992, currently serves as a linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers since the 2023 season.

The initial eight seasons of his career, from 2015 to 2022, were spent with the Minnesota Vikings. During his tenure with the Vikings, Kendricks earned accolades, such as being named First Team All-Pro and participating in the Pro Bowl game in 2019.

3. Cam Ward

Cam Ward, a retired ice hockey goaltender born on Leap Day in 1984, spent almost his entire professional career with the Carolina Hurricanes.

He won the Stanley Cup and the Conn Smythe Trophy (Stanley Cup MVP) during his rookie year in the NHL in 2005-06. In his final season in 2018-19, Ward moved to the Chicago Blackhawks.

4. Tyrese Haliburton

Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton, born on Leap Day in 2000, is perhaps the most famous athlete on his list.

He has ascended as the NBA's newest star, showcasing himself as one of the league's best offensive players. His stellar performances earned him spots in the NBA All-Star Game in 2023 and 2024.

5. Ferran Torres

FC Barcelona forward Ferran Torres, also born on Leap Day in 2000, stands out as one of the most promising young players in the world.

Before joining the Spanish giants, he had a notable stint with the Premier League club Manchester City under manager Pep Guardiola from 2020 to 2022.