American gymnast Simone Biles has once again etched her name as one of the greatest athletes of all time, being honored as Sports Illustrated's 2024 Sportsperson of the Year. The announcement came on Thursday, following her remarkable performance at the Paris Olympics, where she won four medals — three golds and one silver — adding to her illustrious legacy.
"Honestly, it is such a huge honor. I know some of the greats who have won it in prior years, so to just keep gymnastics on the map is really exciting," Biles, 27, expressed during her appearance on Good Morning America. Her surprise at the recognition was palpable, reflecting both humility and excitement at the accolade.
This latest honor signifies not only her athletic prowess but also her influential role off the mat. Biles’s year was marked by her extraordinary comeback from the mental health challenges she faced during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, culminated with her outstanding performances at the event held earlier this year.
Biles clinched gold medals in the team event, all-around competition, and vault, along with a silver medal on the floor exercise. With these wins, she is now tied for the second-most decorated female gymnast in Olympic history, according to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.
Sports Illustrated lauded Biles, stating, "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 important to her." This statement encapsulates the dual impact of Biles's career — her skill and her advocacy.
Her road to this moment was not easy. After experiencing the twisties — a mental block often faced by gymnasts, which left her unable to safely perform — during the Tokyo Games, Biles made the difficult decision to withdraw from several events. Many were concerned whether she would regain her form. Yet, she returned to the Paris stage stronger than ever, dispelling doubts and showcasing her unmatched talent under immense pressure.
Despite her accolades, Biles remains grounded. Reflecting on her legacy, she said, "I don't think the reality has set in of what I've exactly done in the sport. I can see it, and I hear it from people, and I see a glimpse of it, but the full magnitude I don't think I've realized just yet. I don't think I'll realize 'til maybe I retire and look back..."
Biles will receive her award during the Sports Illustrated annual awards ceremony hosted by actor Keegan-Michael Key on January 7, 2025, at Wynn Las Vegas. She will be celebrated along with other sports luminaries, such as Travis Hunter, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, and basketball legend Dikembe Mutombo, among others.
Notably, this marks the first time since 2012, when LeBron James was honored, to name an Olympian as Sportsperson of the Year. This distinction signifies the importance of Olympic athletes, and likely hints at Biles’s wider cultural impact — especially as she has embraced the mantle of advocating for mental health awareness.
Biles's influence extends beyond her medals. Not only has she inspired athletes around the globe, but she also plays a pivotal role as a mental health advocate. Biles has been candid about her struggles, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being among athletes. Her Netflix documentary, "Simone Biles Rising," explores her personal challenges and triumphs, including her commitment to speaking up about the pressures athletes face.
Upon receiving the honor, Biles remarked on the significance of being acknowledged alongside past Sportspersons of the Year, describing it as iconic. She expressed gratitude for putting gymnastics on the map, recognizing the sport's visibility during such significant Olympic years.
The decision to award Biles reflects Sports Illustrated's commitment to honoring athletes who not only excel but also transcend their sports. Her story resonates with fans and future generations, highlighting the work she has done for mental health advocacy and her role as a catalyst for change.
Many critics may have suggested other athletes for the award, especially after Caitlin Clark's standout season for Indiana Fever. Yet, Biles's return to form and her extensive influence on the sport of gymnastics make her selection fitting and deserved.
Looking toward her future, Biles remains contemplative about her next moves. She has not decided whether she will compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, stating, "What sacrifices would be made if I go back now? When you're younger, it’s like prom, college. Now it’s like, starting a family, being away from my husband. What's really worth it?"
The decision weighs heavily on her, but she acknowledges her accomplishments, which have cemented her status as one of the greatest gymnasts not just of her time, but of all time. After successfully overcoming the challenges faced at the Tokyo Olympics, she stands proud, ready to face whatever lies next.
While Biles continues to navigate her career, her recognition as Sports Illustrated's 2024 Sportsperson of the Year ensures her legacy will resonate, inspiring countless future gymnasts and athletes internationally. Her story remains one of resilience, change, and unwavering strength.