Simone Biles winked at some controversy at the ESPY Awards.
Weeks after a high-profile gender-based feud with Riley Gaines, the gymnast took home the award for Best Championship Performance for her 2024 Olympics all-around gold medal on Wednesday night — and her speech caused a stir.
“That was very unexpected, especially in a category of all men. So thank you guys so much,” she said with a laugh.
The joke drew laughs from the Dolby Theatre crowd in Los Angeles.
It came after social media sparring with Gaines, the former collegiate swimmer and current OutKick contributor, in a heated debate over transgender athletes.
Biles beat out Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman, golfer Rory McIlroy and Warriors sharpshooter Stephen Curry for the award.
“I’m honored to receive this award,” she said. “The recognition means more than you guys know. I would like to thank the people who have stood with me on this journey — my teammates, my competitors, my coaches, family and fans who have lifted me up every step of the way. I wouldn’t be standing here without all of you.”
She added she will “proudly share this award with my team of supporters.”
“Having a strong support system that understands your dreams, who are willing to show up for you, not just when you’re winning, but when you’re struggling, too, is really important,” Biles said. “My sincere gratitude, appreciation and love to all of you who have stood with me on this magical journey, all the highs, lows, twists and turns along the way.”
Biles, who wore a custom Athleta dress and packed on the PDA with her NFLer husband Jonathan Owens, also acknowledged the victims of the Texas floods, which left an estimated 132 people dead and another 160 missing earlier this month.
“Before I get into it, I first want to offer my sincere condolences to all those impacted by the devastating flash flooding on July 4th in Central Texas,” the Texas native said to open her speech. “Words can’t replace the pain, but our hearts are with you in this tragic time.”