In a prestigious ceremony held today at the White House, Olympic gymnast Simone Biles and soccer star Megan Rapinoe were awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States. The ceremony, which took place in the East Room, celebrated the remarkable achievements and contributions of these two prominent athletes.

Simone Biles, widely regarded as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, was recognized for her extraordinary accomplishments in sports and her advocacy for mental health. Biles, a six-time Olympic gold medalist, has not only dominated the gymnastics world but has also used her platform to address crucial issues such as mental health, abuse in sports, and empowerment of young athletes.

Megan Rapinoe, an influential figure in women’s soccer, was honored for her outstanding career and activism. Rapinoe, a World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, is celebrated not only for her exceptional skills on the field but also for her outspoken advocacy for gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and social justice. Her leadership and courage have made a significant impact both within and beyond the realm of sports.

President Joe Biden, who presented the medals, praised both Biles and Rapinoe for their “unwavering dedication to their crafts and their fearless pursuit of justice.” In his remarks, Biden highlighted Biles’ bravery in speaking out about abuse in gymnastics and Rapinoe’s relentless fight for equality and social change.

The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including members of Congress, family, and friends of the honorees. Biles and Rapinoe, dressed in elegant attire, were visibly moved as they received their medals and expressed their gratitude for the recognition.

Simone Biles, addressing the audience, spoke about the importance of using one’s platform to advocate for positive change. Megan Rapinoe echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for continued progress and the power of using one’s voice to effect social change.

The awarding of the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Biles and Rapinoe underscores their significant contributions to their respective fields and their broader impact on society. Their achievements continue to inspire and set a high standard for excellence and advocacy in sports and beyond.