​The honorees at the inaugural TIME100 Sports Gala in New York City on July 16 celebrated the formidable influence that sports has on our society. The event honored the 100 Most Influential People in Sports for 2026—the first TIME list dedicated to recognizing influential athletes, coaches, advocates, and investors who shape the world of sport. Five honorees delivered toasts that evening: NBA guard Jalen Brunson, who in June helped the New York Knicks secure their first championship in more than half a century; two-time Olympic gold medalist figure skater Alysa Liu; former U.S. women’s national team soccer star Alex Morgan; Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex and founder of the Invictus Games; and NBA superstar LeBron James. Each spoke about what they’re celebrating and whom they’re lifting up with their success.
Brunson, fresh off guiding the Knicks to a historic title—the franchise’s first since 1973—spoke about the family and supporters who shaped his path and fueled his pursuit of greatness. He described how his mother taught him to “lead with purpose,” and how his father instilled the values of work ethic, preparation, and discipline. He also highlighted the enduring support of his grandparents, friends, and the broader circle that stands with him in both triumphs and setbacks. While acknowledging those who celebrate the good times with him, Brunson emphasized that these same people lift him up when he’s most vulnerable, push him to improve, and keep him grounded. He gave particular thanks to his wife, Ali, calling her his “source of peace and perspective,” and he thanked his daughter for reminding him why sports matter beyond personal glory. “I’m standing here because so many people believed in me long before the world did. For that, I’ll always be grateful,” he said. “Here’s to the people who inspire us, believe in us, and remind us that the journey is always worth it.”
Liu, mirroring Brunson’s sentiment, thanked the team that supported her journey to the 2026 Winter Olympics, where she captured individual gold four years after initially stepping away from competition. “I wouldn’t love my journey as an athlete as much as I do if it wasn’t for my incredible team,” she said. “They’re really what keep me grounded, keep me mentally and physically stable.” She recalled her decision to retire in 2022 at age 16, describing it as one of the best choices she made because it helped her feel liberated from feeling trapped. It was the guidance of her advisers and coaches that allowed her to return, rebuild, and reach the pinnacle of success this year. “There was so much willpower and dedication poured into the past two years I’ve spent back in my sport,” Liu noted, adding that the effort extended beyond herself to the entire team that supported her.
The gala highlighted how these athletes, and others on the TIME100 list, use their platforms to shape conversations about perseverance, teamwork, and the broader impact of sport on society. The assembled audience heard reflections on resilience, purpose, and the responsibility that comes with influence, as each honoree tied personal milestones to the broader ideals that drive sport’s positive impact.