Simone Biles wins the Best Athlete award at the 2025 ESPYs, sparking mixed reactions

Simone Biles Shines Bright at the 2025 ESPYs — But Not Without Controversy

On July 16, Simone Biles once again proved why she’s a sporting legend, sweeping two top honors at the 2025 ESPYs: Best Female Athlete and Best Championship Performance. Her dazzling performance at the Paris Olympics — where she claimed three golds and a silver — captivated audiences and judges alike.

Fans Applaud a Historic Victory
Biles edged out fierce competition from stars like Stephen Curry, Freddie Freeman, and Rory McIlroy to take home Best Female Athlete. In a heartfelt acceptance speech, she shared her surprise, saying, “That was very unexpected, especially in a category of all men,” before celebrating the moment with her husband, Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens.

A Divided Crowd Reacts
While many cheered her well-deserved win, not everyone agreed. Some voiced that athletes like Sydney McLaughlin or Caitlyn Clark were more deserving, with a few critics labeling the outcome “rigged.” Still, countless fans praised Biles as “the greatest female gymnast of all time,” insisting she deserves a spot in the spotlight every year.

Simone Biles at the 2025 ESPY Awards held at the Dolby Theatre | Source: Getty Images

Vacation Photos Ignite Rumors About Simone Biles’ Changing Look

Beyond her triumphant wins, Simone Biles recently sparked a flurry of speculation after sharing vacation snapshots on Instagram. On July 7, she posted sun-soaked photos from a romantic getaway in Belize with her husband, sporting a vibrant patterned bikini — but fans immediately noticed something different.

With a simple caption, “gone to belize,” and comments turned off, the photos ignited widespread chatter. Many speculated Biles might have undergone cosmetic surgery, with whispers of breast augmentation swirling online. Others even wondered if these changes hinted at an upcoming retirement from gymnastics.

Fans Debate What This Means for Her Future

Reactions were mixed. Supporters expressed hope that any procedures wouldn’t impact her legendary gymnastics career, while some joked about the challenges of flipping after surgery. Meanwhile, a significant number saw these changes as a sign that Biles might be preparing to step away from the sport she’s dominated for years.

Simone Biles Keeps Future Plans Close to the Chest

To date, Biles has remained silent on the swirling rumors about her appearance and her next moves. As fans and media alike watch with bated breath, one thing is clear: Simone’s journey beyond the mat is just beginning — and everyone’s eager to see what’s next.