On the evening of July 15, 2026, the stars of the sporting world gathered at the annual ESPY Awards in New York City, a celebrated event recognising excellence and achievements across various sports. Set against the elegant backdrop of the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, the ceremony attracted a host of renowned athletes, each eager to showcase their accomplishments and their style on the red carpet.
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Among the standout stars of the evening was Olympic gold medallist Alysa Liu, who gleamed with pride as she posed for pictures alongside her award for Best Breakthrough Athlete. At just 20 years old, Liu has already made a significant mark in figure skating, and her recognition at the ESPYs reflects her rising influence in the sport.
Also gracing the event was NBA superstar Stephen Curry, 38, of the Golden State Warriors. The four-time champion was honoured with the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award, celebrating not only his prowess on the court but also his contributions off it. Curry’s commitment to philanthropy and community upliftment continues to resonate through various initiatives aimed at making a positive impact.
Adding a touch of glamour to the ceremony, American rugby sensation Ilona Maher, fresh from her own success as the 2025 Best Breakthrough Athlete, dazzled in a striking silver bandeau top paired with a white column skirt. As a presenter at the ESPYs, Maher exemplified the intersection of style and athleticism, capturing the attention of those in attendance.
The New York Knicks, fresh off a championship-winning season, received accolades, with Miles “Deuce” McBride and teammate Jose Alvarado proudly accepting the Best Team award. The duo’s achievement underscores the team’s growth and the significance of their performance in the 2026 season, marking a high point for the franchise.
Over in a corner, Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn, 41, turned heads in a shimmering Gucci gown. Only five months removed from a serious crash that occurred at the Milan Cortina Games, Vonn expressed her joy at appearing at the awards, stating she felt “amazing” as she celebrated her recovery and resilience.
In addition to the athletes, the ceremony featured a mix of celebrities, including actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish, who lit up the stage in a vivid red dress. Her presence added an element of showbiz to the proceedings, perfectly blending the worlds of sports and entertainment.
Another highlight of the evening was the appearance of Eileen Gu, the 22-year-old Olympic freestyle skier who served as a presenter. Gu, who had a stunning run at the Milan Games, is now a recognised name not only in skiing but in popular culture, embodying the spirit of young athletes who inspire others.
The ESPYs also spotlighted the achievements of those overcoming personal challenges. Justin Verlander, a celebrated pitcher announcing his retirement plans for the end of the 2026 season, presented the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance to Jim Abbott, a former MLB player born without a right hand. This touching moment underscored the evening’s theme of resilience and triumph against adversity, highlighting the stories that truly define sporting success.
As the night continued, viewers were treated to musical performances by the viral baseball team, the Savannah Bananas, who opened the ceremony with an energetic number, exemplifying the fun and camaraderie that sports can foster.
The evening concluded with a sense of celebration not only for individual achievements but for the sports community as a whole. The 2026 ESPYs reinforced the belief that sports transcend mere competition; they create stories of perseverance, unity, and inspiration, reminding everyone of the profound impact these athletes have on society.
As athletes and celebrities mingled and posed for photographs, anticipation began building for the next year’s event, knowing that the world of sport continues to evolve, with new talents rising and inspiring future generations.