With the 2025 ESPY Awards approaching on July 16, track and field sensation Gabby Thomas is filled with optimism for both her future and the state of women’s sports. Recently nominated for Best Athlete in the Women’s Sports category following her impressive performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she secured three gold medals, Thomas is proud to be part of this significant era for female athletes.
“I think we’re in such a great era for women’s sports, and I’m just so proud to be a part of that and to be having that impact on not just the people watching but especially the younger generation,” she expressed in a conversation with Refinery29.
This year’s awards category, sponsored by TJ Maxx, will see Thomas sporting a stunning white outfit inspired by her recent engagement to Spencer McManes. “I’m thrilled to be partnering with TJ Maxx because they’re so committed to celebrating women like me who are redefining the game and owning who they are,” she revealed, also noting that her look will include “some fluffy, feathery finishes.”
Thomas has embraced the intersection of fashion and athletics, emphasizing that this moment for women is long overdue. Citing past trailblazers like Florence Griffith Joyner, she reflects on how self-expression through fashion has been an integral part of women’s sports history. “One thing about being in the track community is that when you look good, you feel good, you run good,” she articulates, sharing that dressing up on race days helps her tap into a powerful alter-ego that contributes to her success on the track.
This excitement surrounding the ESPY Awards not only highlights Thomas’ accomplishments but also fosters a wider appreciation for women’s roles in sports and fashion, inspiring future generations to merge athleticism with self-expression.
The growing visibility and recognition of athletes in the fashion world is indeed a promising development, as it continues to pave the way for more female athletes to embrace their identities and make their mark both on and off the field.