American gymnast Simone Biles has added another title to her resume. 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. “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.
Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, has officially been named Sports Illustrated’s 2024 Sportsperson of the Year, and let’s just say — it’s about time. After a turbulent few years marked by public struggles with mental health and a pause in her competitive career, Biles returned stronger, bolder, and more unstoppable than ever.
Why Simone Biles Deserves This Honor (And Then Some)
Some awards feel like a pat on the back. This one? It’s a standing ovation. Simone Biles didn’t just compete in 2024 — she dominated. Her return wasn’t just about the medals. It was about resilience, grace under pressure, and proving that setbacks don’t define you — comebacks do.
The Road to Redemption — Biles’ Triumphant Return
The Break That Made Headlines
After pulling out of events at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics to prioritize her mental health, Simone faced both backlash and overwhelming support. The spotlight never left her, but she used the silence to heal, reset, and refocus.
2024: The Year of Biles
Fast forward to 2024, and Simone stormed back onto the gymnastics scene at the U.S. Classic — nailing routines that left even seasoned judges stunned. With new moves, clean execution, and signature style, she reminded the world what greatness looks like.
Defining Moments That Cemented Her Legacy
Making History… Again
Biles became the first woman to land the Yurchenko double pike in international competition — a move so dangerous, it’s barely attempted by men. Her execution was flawless, and the crowd went wild.
World Championship Domination
At the 2024 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, Biles secured multiple golds, adding to her already record-breaking medal tally. She didn’t just win — she owned the stage.
Beyond the Mat — Biles as a Cultural Icon
Championing Mental Health
Simone hasn’t shied away from talking about anxiety, pressure, and therapy. She’s become an advocate for athlete wellness, using her platform to normalize the conversation and break stigmas.
Fashion, Influence, and Sponsorships
From her Nike campaigns to Met Gala appearances, Biles is redefining what it means to be a modern athlete. She’s powerful, poised, and unapologetically herself.
Sports Illustrated’s Historic Decision
The Criteria for Sportsperson of the Year
Each year, Sports Illustrated honors an athlete who transcends their sport. Biles hit every mark — athletic dominance, personal growth, and cultural impact.
Past Winners vs. Biles’ Legacy
She now joins the ranks of icons like Muhammad Ali, LeBron James, and Serena Williams. But Simone? She’s in a league of her own — blending power, elegance, and resilience.
Reactions from Fans, Fellow Athletes, and the Media
Social Media Eruption
Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram exploded with praise. Hashtags like #Biles2024 and #SportspersonOfTheYear trended for days. Celebrities, fans, and even former Olympians shared their awe and admiration.
Fellow Olympians Weigh In
Athletes like Michael Phelps and Allyson Felix congratulated her, with Felix calling Simone’s journey “one of the most powerful narratives in sports history.”
What Makes Simone Different?
It’s Not Just About Medals
Sure, she’s a medal machine. But Biles’ greatness lies in her authenticity, her courage to speak up, and her ability to redefine strength — mentally and physically.
The Power of Vulnerability
In a world where athletes are often seen as invincible, Biles showed us the strength in saying, “I’m not okay.” That moment alone changed the game.
The Future of Biles — What’s Next?
Paris 2024 Olympics?
Fans are buzzing: Will Simone compete in Paris? While she hasn’t confirmed, signs point to yes. If she does, expect fireworks — and history being made all over again.
Legacy Beyond Competition
Simone is already mentoring young gymnasts, supporting mental health initiatives, and building a lasting legacy off the mat. Retirement or not, she’s not going anywhere.
Biles and the Business of Being a Brand
Endorsements and Empire Building
From Athleta to Visa, Simone’s name is gold. But she’s more than a face for products — she’s a powerhouse behind causes and campaigns.
Biles as a Role Model for the Next Generation
Young athletes — especially young women of color — look up to her not just for what she does, but how she does it. With grace, grit, and honesty.
How Biles Changed the Game Forever
Scoring Systems Rewritten
Judges had to create new codes for her gravity-defying skills. Literally — the sport had to evolve just to keep up with her.
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges
She’s not just breaking records — she’s opening doors. For young girls. For Black athletes. For anyone who’s been told “you’re too different.”
The Final Word — Why Biles’ Victory Means More Than a Title
This isn’t just about a trophy or a magazine cover. It’s about recognition. About overcoming odds. About rewriting what it means to be the best. Simone Biles didn’t just bounce back — she soared. Her naming as Sports Illustrated’s 2024 Sportsperson of the Year is the crowning moment of a year that reminded us all: resilience wins.
Conclusion
Simone Biles’ 2024 wasn’t just a comeback — it was a cultural moment. She reminded us that greatness is about more than talent. It’s about courage. It’s about evolving in the face of adversity. And it’s about showing the world that sometimes the bravest thing you can do… is to keep going.
