Athletic Style: Best Fashion Moments at the 2026 ESPY Awards
The 2026 ESPY Awards recently took center stage at New York's Lincoln Center, transforming the event into a grand display of both athletic prowess and sophisticated style. Athletes, accustomed to dominating their respective fields, brought an equally compelling energy to the red carpet, opting for ensembles that reflected their championship spirit. The evening was a vibrant convergence of sports and high fashion, with many attendees embracing glittering fabrics and distinctive silhouettes, asserting their presence not just as champions but as style icons.
Many stars opted for dazzling looks that incorporated metallic finishes and intricate detailing. Skier Eileen Gu, for instance, chose a Guo Pei couture gown from the spring 2026 collection, featuring elegant, sculpted floral accents that extended across her collarbone. Gymnast Simone Biles, accompanied by her husband and NFL player Jonathan Owens, shone in a flowing gold dress with a daring thigh-high slit, embodying grace and power. Olympic rugby player Ilona Maher made a striking impression in a pristine white column gown, distinguished by a silver studded bandeau and cut-out waist, perfectly complemented by her sparkling eye makeup. Lindsey Vonn, the Team USA ski star, who had recently shared an update on her recovery from an injury sustained at the 2026 Winter Olympics, radiated confidence in a sequined, single-sleeved Gucci dress, her hair styled in classic Hollywood waves. Close friends and U.S. swim team standouts Ali Truwit and Gretchen Walsh also embraced coordinated shimmering outfits.
The event also highlighted prominent athletic couples who showcased their harmonious style. Beyond Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens, notable pairs included Ayesha Curry, in a corseted Christian Siriano creation, alongside Steph Curry. Karl-Anthony Towns of the Knicks and Jordyn Woods appeared in elegant, draped gold Oscar de la Renta designs. Ice dancing duo Evan Bates and Madison Chock also graced the carpet, with Chock in a light, ethereal blue mini-dress by Christian Siriano. Chloe Kim, the Olympic gold medalist snowboarder, presented the Best Record-Breaking Performance award to her boyfriend, Los Angeles Ram Myles Garrett, for his outstanding achievement in the NFL's single-season sack record, capping the moment with a tender kiss.
In contrast to the prevalent sparkle, some athletes chose to exhibit a more understated elegance. Figure skater Alysa Liu impressed in a sleek, chocolate-brown Louis Vuitton dress, while racing driver Toni Breidinger opted for a form-fitting black gown adorned with deep waist cut-outs, subtly revealing skin. The evening, hosted by Marcello Hernandez, recognized leading figures from diverse sports, including motorsport, basketball, soccer, ice-skating, hockey, and gymnastics. Alysa Liu received a roaring standing ovation for winning Best Breakthrough Athlete, and A’ja Wilson secured her third Best WNBA Player award in four years, with Caitlin Clark having won in 2025. The New York Knicks celebrated a historic win, becoming the first NBA team since the 2022 Golden State Warriors to claim the Best Team award. The Knicks’ dominance continued as captain Jalen Brunson swept his nominated categories, earning titles for Best Male Athlete, Best Championship Performance, and Best NBA Player.
The 2026 ESPY Awards served as a remarkable platform where the competitive spirit of global athletes was paired with sophisticated sartorial choices. The red carpet was illuminated by a diverse array of fashion, from opulent, shimmering gowns to chic, minimalist ensembles, underscoring the athletes' dual roles as sports heroes and style trendsetters. The awards celebrated not only peak athletic achievements but also the personal style and camaraderie among the stars, creating a memorable night where elegance and competitive excellence intertwined.
