2024 ESPY Awards Highlight Silence on Faith
Wednesday night marked the 2024 ESPY Awards, a spectacle filled with dazzling lights, political rhetoric, and corporate branding, yet notably absent was a simple expression of gratitude. Winners took to the Dolby Theatre stage and the subsequent press conferences to acknowledge their coaches, trainers, and supporters; however, there was a conspicuous absence of thanks to God. That silence seemed almost deliberate, overshadowing the event’s celebratory tone.
Simone Biles, who took home two trophies, encapsulated the event’s essence. While accepting the award for Best Championship, she emphasized her belief in the significance of sports—both in general and personally. It was a reflective nod towards gender issues, yet divine acknowledgment was missing from her remarks.
The presentation of the Icon Award amplified the ideological message of the night. Football star Alex Morgan spoke about the powerful legacy of women who inspired confidence and resilience. “We stand on the shoulders of giants… because of you, we don’t have to shy away from speaking out,” she remarked.
Ironamaher, recognized as Best Breakthrough Athlete, championed an empowering message, resonating throughout the evening. But once again, the question lingered: What about thanking God? He remained unmentioned.
Even the prestigious Arthur Ashe Courage Award carried no spiritual undertones. NBA legend Oscar Robertson discussed players’ struggles for rights and security. His recounting of courage didn’t include the notion that it could come as a gift from above.
Contrast this with the sentiments from the sports world just a day earlier. At the MLB All-Star Festival, Yankees captain Aaron Judge expressed that true satisfaction came from his relationship with Jesus Christ. “Fame is fantastic, but nothing compares to that connection,” he replied to a question about fulfillment. Merchandise such as “The Judge Bat,” engraved with a biblical reference, quickly sold out, showcasing a still-thriving expression of faith.
Soccer fans witness this unity every Sunday. Patrick Mahomes, the star quarterback, shared his habit of praying at the goal post before games. Videos of this practice have garnered millions of views and countless affirmations, suggesting that even in the complexities of competition, prayer creates a common ground.
College football had its moment as well, with LSU’s Jayden Daniels delivering a powerful Heisman speech. The audience erupted in applause, and hashtags featuring praises like #GloryToGod trended for days. It seems the community isn’t turning its back on faith; rather, there’s a disconnect from the platform being provided.
While the sports community continues to openly embrace faith, the ESPY Awards seemed to sidestep it. The irony is striking. The same network that broadcasts Mahomes’ prayers suppresses mention of gratitude to God from the winners’ speeches. Yet, during moments of crisis—such as Damar Hamlin’s collapse—the collective response is prayer, reflecting an underlying reverence.
As a father, Catholic convert, and host of a show focused on faith and community, I understand the stakes involved. Conversations with current and former athletes often reveal a passion for faith, family, and freedom, with an emphasis on faith being the most uplifting topic.
Sports can bridge divisions, cutting through societal differences. Yet, the event felt more like a corporate showcase than a celebration of shared values.
So, what actions did the ESPYs overlook? If winners can muster words of appreciation for awards that seem almost child-sized, surely they could take a moment to acknowledge their Creator. Audiences express their enthusiasm loudly, whether for champions like Judge, Mahomes, Daniels, or even Biles, who once expressed gratitude to God after winning in Rio.
There’s a hunger for this kind of acknowledgment. The crowd is ready. Yet, the event organizers seem hesitant to facilitate it.
Until that changes, awards ceremonies will likely keep faith apart from the celebration. Still, the enthusiastic cheers in stadiums and quiet prayers at home tell a different story. God remains part of the game if we continue to include Him.
