You see, fundamental reading skills in America is just revolting.
Inspiration is such an esy answer, but it is wrong. The athlete does not inpire you; you are inspired by the athlete. You might find an athlete inspirational, but that is not an actual contribution. Most elite athletes are doing their chosen activity for purely selfish reasons, be it monetary or for their own self-fulfillment, not to "inspire" you. I challenge you to name me a single elite athlete who does what they do purely to inspire others.
With this question, think in a broader sense. Change "elite athlete" with a different sub-group, such as white people, black people, homosexuals, or immigrants. You will find that you are unable to answer the question with a specific contribution, because for every contribution, you'll find a someone that negates the contribution by taking.
As for your Michael Jordan example; one might feel inspired to play basketball after watching MJ play, but do you think he played with the sole purpose of getting you off the couch and hitting the boards?