Axios

Simone Biles, who Sports Illustrated just named the 2024 Sportsperson of the Year, tells Axios that she sees her fellow honorees as people who "transcend sports" and help build communities.

Why it matters: Biles, a "global icon," has been "fearless in speaking out about issues that transcend the sports world," SI Editor-in-Chief Steve Cannella said in a statement.

Catch up quick: The 27-year old gymnast mounted a comeback at last summer's Paris Olympics after the "twisties" caused her to withdraw early from the 2020 games.

• She won three gold medals and one silver, and became the oldest woman to win an all-around Olympic gold in gymnastics since the 1950s.

Between the lines: Off the mat, Biles has become a mental health advocate.

• She spoke candidly about her personal struggles in SI's feature story (written by Stephanie Apstein), and in her Netflix documentary, "Simone Biles Rising."

What they're saying: In a new interview, the 11-time Olympic medalist tells Axios how she feels about the SI honor, why she's so outspoken about her journey and what she's looking forward to this year.

How does it feel to be named SI's Sportsperson of the Year?

• "To see some of the people that have graced the covers over the past 70 years is truly iconic, not just for what they've done to transcend sports, but what they've done for their communities. To be a part of that is such an honor."
• "And I think it's so nice to put gymnastics on the map, because that's what we need. Our sport is so unique and beautiful and I think people need to see that."

You've been so vocal in your career, on behalf of yourself and teammates. Where does your outspokenness come from?

• "If you were to ask my parents, I think it came from whenever I was younger, I was just always very loud. I kind of knew what I wanted, and I would tell you."
• "I wouldn't say I was a class clown, but I was always very energetic and fun to be around. I just knew how to apply that to a team aspect, where it could elevate all of us."

You were also candid about your struggles and journey to recovery in the SI article as well your documentary — why is that?

• "Any of my friends will tell you I am a very real, honest, open and raw person. I want that to translate into anything I do throughout life. I think people need to see me as a person, because at the end of the day, not a lot of people can relate to being an elite athlete."
• "If I can try to be open and honest with my career, my journey, whatever I'm going through, then that's what I'm going to do."

What are you most proud of?

• "Being able to compete on a world stage again and to just go out there with my girls and win team gold."
• "But I'm more proud of the work that we put in behind the scenes — a lot of us put mental and physical work in so that we could each be the best versions of ourselves."

What is the significance of being one of Black women's many success stories at the Olympics?

• "This is what we dreamt of when we were little. Now we're pushing our sports in a positive way and we can shape younger generations and we can instill confidence and belief."

What are you focused on accomplishing in 2025?

• "I'm going to try to be more focused on spending quality time with family and friends."

What we're watching: SI's Sportsperson of the Year issue drops digitally on Jan. 7 and hits newsstands on Jan. 9.