The sporting world is abuzz with the release of the 2026 ESPY Awards nominations, celebrating exceptional achievements across a diverse range of athletic endeavors. This year's roster of nominees features a blend of established legends and rising stars, all vying for recognition at one of sports' most prestigious events. The ceremony promises to highlight remarkable individual and team performances that have captivated audiences and pushed the boundaries of athletic excellence.

2026 ESPY Awards Nominations Unveiled, Featuring Top Sports Figures

On June 25, 2026, the highly anticipated nominations for the 2026 ESPY Awards were publicly revealed, sparking discussions and excitement among sports enthusiasts. Among the prominent figures earning multiple nominations is New York Knicks sensation Jalen Brunson, whose stellar performance has garnered him significant attention. Brunson is a contender for the 'Best Athlete: Men's Sports' category, where he is nominated alongside football icon Lionel Messi, baseball phenomenon Shohei Ohtani, and NFL quarterback Matthew Stafford. Ohtani's exceptional season has also secured him nominations in two additional categories: 'Best Single-Game Performance' and 'Best MLB Player'. Brunson's impressive playoff run with the Knicks also earned him a nod for 'Best Championship Performance', while the entire Knicks team is recognized in the 'Best Team' category.

In the realm of women's sports, the 'Best Athlete: Women's Sports' category features formidable talents such as Hilary Knight (Hockey), Nelly Korda (Golf), Mikaela Shiffrin (Ski), and A'ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces). The awards also celebrate emerging talent, with several athletes receiving their inaugural ESPY nominations. This esteemed group includes Bam Adebayo, Lauren Betts, Macklin Celebrini, Hannah Hidalgo, Drake Maye, Fernando Mendoza, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, signaling a bright future for these rising stars.

Notably, the 2026 ESPY Awards will mark a significant return to New York City after more than two and a half decades, having previously been held in Las Vegas and Los Angeles. The prestigious David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center will host the live ceremony on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET. The event will be broadcast on ABC and accessible via the ESPN app, with 'Saturday Night Live' star Marcello Hernandez taking on the hosting duties. Fans are encouraged to participate by casting their votes for their favorite athletes and teams, with voting continuing until the awards are presented on July 15.

The comprehensive list of nominees spans a wide array of sports categories, celebrating achievements in basketball, football, baseball, hockey, golf, skiing, and more. From 'Best Breakthrough Athlete' to 'Best Record-Breaking Performance', the ESPYs aim to honor those who have left an indelible mark on the sporting landscape.

The ESPY Awards serve as a crucial platform to acknowledge and applaud the dedication, perseverance, and extraordinary talent exhibited by athletes globally. This year's nominations reflect a rich tapestry of athletic stories, from individual triumphs to collective team efforts, inspiring millions with their commitment to excellence and sportsmanship. The return of the ceremony to New York adds an extra layer of prestige, promising an unforgettable evening of celebration and recognition for the sports community.