Simone Biles is formally that woman—as if we didn’t already know. The gymnastics legend has been named Sportsperson of the 12 months by Sports activities Illustrated, and actually, nobody needs to be shocked. No person else is flipping, twisting, and making historical past like Biles is. The yr 2024 was all about her comeback, proving she’s not simply the G.O.A.T. of gymnastics but in addition the definition of resilience and inspiration.
In 2023, Biles snagged her eighth U.S. all-around title on the Nationwide Gymnastics Championships—the primary individual to ever earn the accomplishment. And in 2024 she grew to become essentially the most embellished gymnast in historical past with 37 World Championship and Olympic medals mixed.
However Biles’s legacy isn’t nearly gold medals and jaw-dropping routines. She’s additionally the queen of placing psychological well being entrance and heart. In the course of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics she stepped again to give attention to her psychological well-being and set a brand new customary for self-care. Her daring transfer modified the way in which we have a look at athletes and psychological well being without end.
“Simone Biles is Sports activities Illustrated’s 2024 Sportsperson of the 12 months as a result of she gained gold, after which one other gold, after which one other; as a result of she modified the face of her sport and the conversations round athletes basically; as a result of she continues to talk out about points that matter to her,” Sports activities Illustrated says of Biles.
Past the health club, Biles continues to make use of her voice for change. She’s been a fierce advocate for abuse survivors and a power for accountability in sports activities. And let’s not overlook how she’s turn into a job mannequin for younger athletes, displaying them you possibly can prioritize your self whereas nonetheless being a champion.
Simone Biles’s story isn’t nearly breaking data—it’s about breaking limitations. And he or she’s confirmed repeatedly that she’s greater than an athlete. Biles is a cultural icon, a trailblazer, and a worthy recipient of Sportsperson of the 12 months.
