“Athlete” itself is the most common 8-letter word for athlete. However, depending on the context, here are some other 8-letter options you might consider:
- Sprinter: Emphasizes speed and running.
- Gymnast: Highlights skills and flexibility.
- Judoka: Specific to the sport of judo.
- Swimmer: Specific to the sport of swimming.
- Competitor: Focuses on the athletic contest aspect.
- Sportsman: More formal term, sometimes used historically.
If you have any other context or details about the specific type of athlete you’re looking for, I might be able to suggest even more relevant options.