Every summer, the ESPYS bring together the biggest stars in sports for a night dedicated to celebrating championships, unforgettable performances and the athletes who defined the past year. While trophies are certainly the main attraction, the annual show has also become known for emotional speeches, celebrity appearances, viral moments and surprises that keep fans talking long after the final award is handed out.
The 34th annual ESPYS took place Wednesday night at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center in New York City. Hosted by Saturday Night Live star Marcello Hernández, the ceremony welcomed athletes from every corner of the sports world alongside entertainers, actors and musicians for one of the year’s biggest celebrations of athletic excellence.
Fresh off ending a 53-year championship drought, the New York Knicks naturally became one of the biggest storylines of the evening. But they weren’t the only ones to steal the spotlight. From heartfelt acceptance speeches to well-deserved award winners and memorable performances, this year’s ESPYS offered plenty of moments worth revisiting. Here’s a look at the biggest moments from the 2026 ESPYS: