The 11-time Olympic medalist was named Thursday by Sports Illustrated as its 2024 Sportsperson of the Year. “Honestly, it is such a huge honor. I know some of the greats that have won it in prior years, so to just keep gymnastics on the map is really exciting,” Biles, 27, told “Good Morning America” of the Sports Illustrated accolade. “I know a lot of people love the sport of gymnastics during an Olympic year and have followed my career closely, but I was still very shocked.”
She continued, “I feel like I’m always shocked winning any sort of award or being honored.” The Sportsperson of the Year award comes after a year in which Biles took the 2024 Paris Olympics by storm, adding four new medals to her collection in team, all-around, vault and floor exercise.
After her performance in Paris, Biles, 27, is now tied for the second-most decorated female gymnast in Olympic history, according to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. Biles won three gold medals and a silver medal in Paris just a few years after withdrawing from the team final at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics when she suffered from “the twisties,” a disorienting condition when a gymnast’s mind and body feel dangerously out of sync.
“Simone Biles is Sports Illustrated’s 2024 Sportsperson of the Year because she won gold, and then another gold, and then another; because she changed the face of her sport and the conversations around athletes in general; because she continues to speak out about issues that matter to her,” the magazine wrote of Biles. “And perhaps most of all because after she wondered aloud to [teammate Jordan] Chiles whether she was about to relive the darkest period of her career, she took a deep breath, she saluted the judges and she broke into a run.”
Biles will receive the 2024 Sportsperson of the Year award in person on Jan. 7, when Sports Illustrated holds its annual awards ceremony in Las Vegas.
In a year that celebrated resilience, excellence, and transformation, Simone Biles stood out as the epitome of these qualities. Sports Illustrated’s decision to name her the 2024 Sportsperson of the Year was not just about her athletic prowess but also about her journey, challenges, and the profound impact she has had both on and off the gymnastics floor.
A Historic Comeback in Paris
The 2024 Paris Olympics were a stage set for redemption. After a challenging experience in Tokyo 2020, where Biles withdrew from several events due to the “twisties,” many wondered if she could reclaim her former glory. Not only did she return, but she also dominated, securing three gold medals and one silver. Her performance was a testament to her unparalleled skill and determination.
The Golden Girls: A Team Effort
While Biles’ individual achievements were remarkable, the success of the U.S. women’s gymnastics team, dubbed the “Golden Girls,” was equally inspiring. Alongside Suni Lee, Jade Carey, Jordan Chiles, and Hezly Rivera, Biles helped lead the team to a gold medal in the team competition, showcasing the power of collaboration and unity in sports.
Pushing the Boundaries: The Biles II Vault
One of the most talked-about moments of the Games was Biles’ execution of the Yurchenko double pike, known as the “Biles II.” This move, characterized by two flips with her legs perpendicular to her body, left spectators in awe and further solidified her status as a trailblazer in gymnastics.
Overcoming Personal Challenges
Biles’ journey wasn’t just about physical feats; it was also about mental strength. Overcoming the “twisties” and returning to the sport she loved required immense courage and determination. Her openness about her struggles has sparked important conversations about mental health in athletics, encouraging others to prioritize their well-being.
Advocacy Beyond the Gym
Beyond her athletic achievements, Biles has become a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and social justice. Her willingness to speak out on these issues has inspired countless individuals and has made her a role model for many.
A Glimpse into the Future
As Biles continues to inspire, questions about her future in gymnastics arise. While she has hinted at the possibility of stepping back from the sport, her legacy is already cemented. Whether she chooses to compete in the 2028 Olympics or not, her influence on the sport and society will undoubtedly endure.
Conclusion
Simone Biles’ recognition as Sports Illustrated’s 2024 Sportsperson of the Year is a celebration of more than just athletic achievement. It’s a recognition of resilience, advocacy, and the power of an individual to inspire change. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and determination for future generations.
