*In a year that heralded her as the most-decorated gymnast in Olympic history, Simone Biles has achieved yet another monumental milestone—being named Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the Year for 2024. Announced by the magazine on Thursday, Biles’ selection stands as a testament to her exceptional journey and undeniable impact on the world of sports.
Biles joins an elite list of honorees, with Colorado football sensation Travis Hunter receiving the Breakout Star of the Year title following his record-breaking season. Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo was acknowledged with the Muhammad Ali Legacy Award, and NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman was honored as the inaugural Innovator of the Year.
Biles’ recognition as Sportsperson of the Year is particularly significant as she becomes the first Olympian to receive the accolade since LeBron James did so in 2012. Her performance at the 2024 Olympic Games reaffirmed her status as the world’s greatest active gymnast; she claimed a remarkable four medals, including gold medals in the team competition, individual all-around, and vault, according to Bleacher Report.
With eleven career medals and seven gold medals, Biles is tied with the legendary Czech gymnast Věra Čáslavská for the second-most medals ever won by a female gymnast.
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Despite her monumental success, Biles expressed a sense of disbelief about her legacy.
“I don’t think the reality has set in of what I’ve exactly done in the sport… I don’t think I’ll realize ’til maybe I retire and look back in a couple of years like, Damn, she was good.”
When reflecting on the possibility of participating in the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Games, Biles exhibited caution, understanding the implications of such a commitment.
“If you go back, you’ll be greedy. Those are the consequences,” she remarks, weighing personal milestones against the sacrifices that come with elite competition.
With thoughts of starting a family and being away from her husband, Biles acknowledges the difficult decisions ahead. Biles and her fellow honorees, including Hunter, Mutombo, and Berman, will be publicly celebrated at the Sportsperson of the Year awards ceremony set for January 7 in Las Vegas.
Hunter, in his own right, had an extraordinary year in college football, culminating in his recognition as the Breakout Star of the Year.
The Buffaloes’ two-way superstar finished the season with 92 receptions for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns, while also showcasing his defensive prowess with 11 pass breakups and four interceptions.
His intense dedication was illustrated through his participation in a staggering 1,356 snaps—amounting to 84% of Colorado’s total plays—ultimately leading him to become the second Heisman Trophy winner in Colorado’s history.
As the sports world gears up for the awards ceremony, the achievements of these remarkable athletes will undoubtedly inspire a new generation.
With Biles leading the charge in gymnastics and Hunter making waves in college football, 2024 has proven to be a landmark year for sports, filled with significant accomplishments and a bright future ahead.
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