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. A name that echoes strength, resilience, and brilliance. In 2024, she once again cartwheeled her way into history, this time by being crowned Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the Year. But this isn’t just a win for Biles—this is a win for athletes, mental health advocates, and dreamers everywhere.
Let’s tumble into the story of how Simone Biles flipped expectations, broke boundaries, and landed this monumental title.
Who Is Simone Biles, Really?
We all know she’s a gymnastics legend. But she’s also a role model, a mental health warrior, and a symbol of grace under pressure. With 37 Olympic and World Championship medals, Biles is officially the most decorated gymnast in history.
Yet, what truly sets her apart is not just what she does on the mat, but how she carries herself off of it.
What Makes the 2024 Award So Special?
More Than Just Performance
Unlike previous years where the award might go to someone with the most wins or records, Biles was chosen not just for her athletic dominance, but for her resilience, leadership, and voice in conversations that matter.
Remember when she withdrew from multiple Olympic events in 2021? That moment, though controversial, became a turning point. She prioritized her mental health over medals—something unheard of in elite sports. And that bravery continues to inspire.
The Impact of Her Win on the Sports World
She Changed the Game—Literally
Simone Biles isn’t just competing; she’s innovating. With four gymnastic moves named after her, she’s changing how the sport is even scored. Judges now literally have to adjust because of her talent.
A Role Model for Future Champions
Every young athlete watching Simone sees a path not only to greatness but to authenticity. She’s shown that vulnerability can be a superpower.
Why Sports Illustrated Chose Her in 2024
Sports Illustrated said it best: Biles “embodies the spirit of modern athleticism.” She’s someone who uses her platform for more than personal gain—she speaks up for what’s right, and she carries entire movements forward.
Mental Health Matters—And Simone Proved It
Breaking the Stigma
She shattered the illusion that athletes must be invincible. She made it okay to say “I’m not okay.” That kind of honesty? That’s pure power.
Advocating Off the Mat
From testifying about abuse before Congress to supporting fellow athletes, Biles uses her voice beyond the arena. She’s not just a gymnast—she’s a changemaker.
Biles in 2024: Her Comeback Was Next-Level
She Didn’t Just Return—She Dominated
After a break, some thought she’d fade. Instead, Biles came back stronger than ever, winning all-around titles and sticking landings that defied physics.
The Yurchenko Double Pike? Yeah, She Owns It
This move was once considered impossible for women. Biles nailed it. And judges had to rewrite the books… again.
Her Global Influence Is Off the Charts
Not Just a U.S. Icon
Simone’s impact reaches across oceans. From Tokyo to Paris, fans and fellow gymnasts look to her as the gold standard—literally and figuratively.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Athletes
She’s mentoring young gymnasts, building foundations, and creating training centers. Simone’s legacy isn’t just in her medals—it’s in every young girl who dares to dream bigger.
Resilience Is Her Middle Name
From Foster Care to Olympic Podiums
Her life didn’t start easy. She was born into hardship and later adopted. But Simone never let circumstances define her. She turned adversity into art.
Lessons We Can All Learn from Simone Biles
You Can Pause and Still Win
Taking a break isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom. Simone’s journey proves you can step back, reset, and still come back stronger.
Your Worth Isn’t in Medals
Success isn’t always about results. Sometimes, it’s about showing up, speaking out, and being unapologetically yourself.
The Iconic SI Cover Shot Everyone’s Talking About
It’s not just a photo—it’s a statement. Standing tall, fierce, and elegant, Biles looked like a warrior, a queen, and a dream all rolled into one. That cover? Instant classic.
Simone Biles’ Influence on Pop Culture
She’s not just an athlete. She’s a brand, an influencer, and a cultural shift. Whether it’s through partnerships, documentaries, or talk shows, Biles has become a household name worldwide.
Collaborations & Brand Power
Biles partners with brands that align with her values—from mental health awareness to women’s empowerment. She doesn’t just take deals—she makes statements.
What She Said After Winning the Award
Her response? Humble. Emotional. And totally Simone.
“This award isn’t just for me—it’s for every girl who felt like she wasn’t enough. You are.”
Final Thoughts: Why This Win Is For All of Us
Simone Biles being named Sports Illustrated’s 2024 Sportsperson of the Year is more than an accolade. It’s a cultural moment. A reminder that greatness isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence, vulnerability, and purpose.
She didn’t just stick a landing—she lifted a world.
FAQs About Simone Biles & The 2024 SI Sportsperson of the Year
1. Why did Simone Biles win Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the Year in 2024?
Because she embodied excellence in athleticism, resilience, and leadership—both on and off the mat.
2. What makes Simone Biles different from other athletes?
Her combination of athletic dominance, mental health advocacy, and cultural influence sets her apart.
3. How many medals does Simone Biles have now?
As of 2024, she holds 37 Olympic and World Championship medals, making her the most decorated gymnast in history.
4. Has Simone Biles influenced gymnastics rules?
Absolutely. Her skills are so advanced that judges have had to modify scoring systems to keep up.
5. What’s next for Simone Biles after this award?
Besides continuing to compete, she’s mentoring young athletes, advocating for change, and expanding her legacy beyond the sport.
