Simone Biles and Suni Lee grabbed attention both on and off the red carpet at the 2026 ESPYS in New York City. The two Olympic gymnastics stars impressed fans with their stylish outfits, while Biles also shared behind-the-scenes moments on her Instagram Story. Their appearance quickly became one of the biggest talking points from the annual sports awards ceremony.The glamorous night became even more special after Suni Lee confirmed that she is returning to competitive gymnastics with the goal of competing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. While Biles shined as a presenter at the event, Lee celebrated the next chapter of her career. Together, the decorated gymnasts combined fashion, friendship and exciting career news during one of sport’s biggest nights.
Simone Biles and Suni Lee steal the spotlight with stylish ESPYS appearance
Simone Biles and Suni Lee were among the biggest stars at the ESPYS 2026, held at the David H. Koch Theater in New York City. Biles later shared a glimpse of the evening through her Instagram Story, posting stylish moments with Lee that quickly caught the attention of gymnastics fans.Biles looked elegant in a flowing corset-style gown that featured shimmering details and a dramatic silhouette. She completed her look with sparkling jewellery and a polished hairstyle while attending the ceremony with her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens. As one of the night’s featured presenters, Biles also enjoyed a busy evening on stage and on the red carpet.
Simone Biles shares glamorous ESPYS 2026 BTS moments with Suni Lee after Olympic star announces comeback (via Suni Lee/Instagram)
Lee matched the occasion with an equally eye-catching outfit. The Olympic champion arrived in a sleek and fashionable gown that highlighted her confident return to the public spotlight. The pair smiled for photos together, showing the close friendship they have built through years of representing Team USA on the biggest stages in gymnastics.While their fashion choices drew plenty of praise online, Lee also made headlines with a major career announcement. The 23-year-old confirmed that she is returning to elite gymnastics and has already set her sights on competing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.Speaking about her decision, Lee said that she never felt her journey in gymnastics was complete. She shared that she still believes she has much more to achieve. She wants the opportunity to compete at her highest level.Lee stepped away from the sport after helping the United States win Olympic gold at the Paris 2024 Games. Before those Olympics, she had been diagnosed with an incurable kidney disease, which affected her preparation and performances. Looking back, she admitted that she was not able to perform at the level she knew she was capable of. Now feeling more confident about her future, she wants to give herself another chance to chase her goals.The Olympic champion officially announced her comeback through a video posted on Instagram. In the clip, Lee walked through a gymnastics training facility while reflecting on her belief in her abilities. She explained that she is ready to work as hard as necessary to reach her ambitions.