Nationwide — Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, has been named Sports Illustrated’s 2024 Sportsperson of the Year. The 7-time Olympic gold medalist shared that she never expected to achieve such success when she started gymnastics just for fun as a child.
“When I started doing gymnastics when I was 6, I never imagined winning medals and everything I’ve been fortunate enough to do up until this point. I just wanted to have fun and hopefully get a college scholarship. I’ve kind of surpassed all of that, which is super exciting, but everyday I spend competing alongside my teammates is truly a gift,” Biles said in her acceptance speech, according to People.
Biles received the award from her close friend and former teammate Aly Raisman. During the ceremony, Biles highlighted the rising recognition of women’s sports in 2024 and encouraged young gymnasts to stay passionate and resilient, even when facing challenges. She also thanked her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens.
Biles’ Sportsperson of the Year win follows her historic comeback at the Paris Olympics, where she won 4 medals and redeemed herself after her early exit from the Tokyo Games due to the “twisties.”
Moreover, in a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, Biles hinted that she may retire from competition, saying she feels content with her achievements.
“Because I’ve accomplished so much, there’s almost nothing left to do, rather than to just be snobby and to try again and for what? I’m at a point in my career where I’m humble enough to know when to be done,” Biles said.