Simone Biles stole the show during the 2025 ESPYS. She became the first Black woman to achieve these two prestigious awards of July 16, during the annual Academy Awards broadcasted live from Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre. After a spectacular showing Biles shined at the Paris Olympics, winning Best Championship Performance for her historic all-around win. She won Best Athlete, Women’s Sports. Her achievements certainly add to an impressive trove of historic achievements already showcasing her outstanding career.
As every athlete was celebrated for their historic achievements across a star-studded night of sport, Biles found herself in the spotlight once more. The event was hosted by comedian Shane Gillis, who opened with a sharp monologue that included playful jabs at the star-studded crowd, including a light-hearted quip comparing Biles to a leprechaun given her extensive collection of Olympic gold medals. Though she had everyone laughing, Biles was a picture of poise and thankful elegance.
Behind the scenes after the ceremony, Biles opened up to Good Morning America about the impressive night. She conveyed the nerves that accompany such public recognition, stating, “It was very unexpected tonight, because the athletes in this room are absolutely phenomenal, and they’re raising the bar each and every year.”
Celebrating Athletic Excellence
The 2025 ESPYS honored Simone Biles with such a remarkable class of athletes. Each of these athletes has broken barriers and set extraordinary records in their sporting achievements. Just four years after winning an Olympic gold medal, Suni Lee was one of the honorees. She accepted the Best Comeback Athlete award for her extraordinary return to the Olympic podium following her valiant fight against an unnamed kidney disease. Celebrating Lee’s incredible show of resilience at the summer games in Paris. His spirit of perseverance was felt on and off the stage all night long.
And one more thing, our pal Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder is the Best Athlete in Men’s Sports! He certainly deserved this honor after an amazing NBA season capped off with a title and finals MVP. The Philadelphia Eagles were ecstatic to win Best Team. All of them rejoiced at their thorough trouncing of the Kansas City Chiefs this spring.
Individual awards have flown Sloane Stephens’ way, an acknowledgement of her prodigious gifts. She was awarded the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian of the Year Award, honoring her powerful service work outside the tennis court. Firefighters David Walters and Erin Regan—or, as they so fearlessly put themselves in harm’s way against the raging fires of Southern California earlier this year. For their heroic efforts, they received the Pat Tillman Award for Service.
A Night of Inspiration
The ESPYS were a glorious reminder that athletic talent can be celebrated with such flair. More than anything, though, they delivered inspiring promises of determination and hope. Billie Jean King, a pioneer and legend in women’s sports, reminded us all of the passion, hard work and talent of athletes in attendance at the event.
“Each and every one of them are amazing people — and each and every one of them have done miraculous things already and they’re just getting started,” – Billie Jean King
King continued to express her admiration for Biles, stating, “Thank you for being such a great role model for all of us, and I love you very much as a friend.” This hopeful attitude captured the encouraging vibe of the entire night.
Ilona Maher, body positivity and strength in sports advocate, body positive athlete Ilona Maher shared her philosophy and lifetime lessons learned in her inspiring keynote address.
“My message stays the same: Strong is beautiful, strong is powerful. It’s sexy. It’s whatever you want it to be,” – Ilona Maher
Her words struck a chord with everyone in the room and cemented the idea that athleticism is bigger than old standards.
Looking Ahead
As athletes like Biles continue to break records and set new standards in their fields, they inspire future generations to pursue excellence. The recognition at events like the ESPYS not only celebrates past achievements but encourages young athletes to strive for greatness.
Biles’ latest successes are a testimony to her commitment to the sport. They demonstrate what a critical role she plays as a community leader. Her impact has stretched far beyond medals and awards. It is proof of the even greater ability of human heart and spirit to rise above adversity.
