Athletes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Simone Biles were triumphant at this year's ESPYS, claiming top awards.
In a glittering ceremony at the 2025 ESPY Awards, the sports world came together to honour some of the most outstanding performances and acts of bravery over the past year.
The evening began with a double win for Taurasi and Alex Morgan, who shared the Icon Award for their remarkable careers and impact on sports. Taurasi, a WNBA legend, dedicated her award to her parents who had immigrated from Argentina, while encouraging the next generation to work hard, be loyal, and bring their fire every day.
In the male category, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was crowned the Best Male Athlete. The NBA star led the Oklahoma City Thunder to the NBA championship last month, earning him the Finals MVP title. Gilgeous-Alexander also clinched the league MVP honours and was the scoring champion for the season.
Simone Biles, the Olympic champion gymnast, was named the Best Female Athlete. Her performance at the Paris Games was nothing short of remarkable, as she won three gold medals and one silver while helping the U.S. gymnastics team secure its first team title since 2016. Biles, an 11-time Olympic medalist, also took home the Best Championship Performance award that night.
Two unsung heroes, David Walters and Erin Regan, received the Pat Tillman Award for their service. Walters, a former Olympic gold medalist and Los Angeles city firefighter, fought the deadly and destructive wildfires in Pacific Palisades and Altadena in January. Regan, a former Wake Forest soccer player and current Los Angeles County Fire Department member, also bravely battled the fires.
Oscar Robertson, a trailblazer in sports, accepted the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage. Robertson was the first Black president of any sports labor union and continues to be a powerful voice for change.
Suni Lee won the award for Best Comeback. The gymnast made a triumphant return to the sport after a serious injury, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Katie Schumacher-Cawley was awarded the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance. The athlete, who was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer, shared her inspiring story of courage and strength.
The evening was a testament to the power of sports, showcasing not only incredible athletic achievements but also acts of bravery, resilience, and perseverance. The winners serve as role models for the next generation, inspiring them to reach for the stars and never give up.
During the ESPY Awards, entertainment was provided by the captivating performances of both Taurasi, co-recipient of the Icon Award, and Simone Biles, the Best Female Athlete. On the sports side, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Best Male Athlete, and Suni Lee, winner of the Best Comeback, showcased their exceptional talents.
