From the Dictionary
Main Entry: ath?·lete
Pronunciation: ?€ath-??l?“t, ?·?€a-th?™-??l?“t
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin athleta, from Greek athl?“t?“s, from athlein to contend for a prize, from athlon prize, contest
Date: 15th century
: a person who is trained or skilled in exercises, sports, or games requiring physical strength, agility, or stamina
Nope, does not say anything about winning games. Players are what you make them, not what they currently are among the pundits.