Michael Phelps
Yogi Berra
Bill Russell
The Alabama Crimson Tide have the most with 13 all time National Championships.
ddd
This answer may vary depending on what you define as "successful," but generally, Michael Jordan is usually considered the most famous American athlete of his time.
Michael Phelps is the most decorated olympian of all time.
Bjørn Dæhlie
Trevor Brazile who has won 9 all-around championships.
UCLA
Pele
Michael Phelps has the most Olympic Golds (all time), world championship medals, and much more.
Arkansas Razorbacks 42 national championships in track
duke
Oklahoma State