The inaugural TIME100 Sports Gala took place in New York City on July 16, 2026 bringing together the most influential figures in the world of sports. This event marked the first time TIME had compiled a list of the 100 Most Influential People in Sports honoring athletes, coaches, advocates, and investors who have made a significant impact on the sporting world.
The gala featured toasts from five notable honorees: Jalen BrunsonAlysa LiuAlex MorganPrince Harry, the Duke of Sussex and LeBron James. Each speaker shared their unique journey and the lessons they have learned through their involvement in sports.
The Journey of Jalen Brunson
Jalen Brunson the point guard for the New York Knicks delivered a heartfelt toast, reflecting on his team’s historic NBA championship win in June 2026—their first since 1973. Brunson attributed his success to the unwavering support of his family, who taught him the values of purposework ethic and discipline.
He expressed gratitude to his mother for teaching him to lead with purpose his father for instilling the importance of preparation and his grandparents and friends for their unwavering support. Brunson also thanked his wife, Ali Brunson for being his source of peace and perspective and his daughter for reminding him of the broader significance of sports.
I’m standing here because so many people believed in me long before the world did Brunson said, emphasizing the importance of the journey and the support of loved ones. He concluded his toast by acknowledging the people who inspire and believe in others, reminding everyone that the journey is always worth it.
Alysa Liu’s Triumphant Return
Alysa Liu a two-time Olympic gold medalist in figure skating, shared her journey of retirement and triumphant return. Liu thanked her team for their support, which helped her overcome the challenges she faced after retiring from the sport in 2026 at just 16 years old.
Liu’s team played a crucial role in her mental and physical well-being, enabling her to push her mind and body to their limits. She highlighted the importance of trusting and valuing the process a lesson she has learned over her 13-year career in figure skating.
Liu’s return to the sport culminated in a gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics a testament to her dedication and the support of her team. She expressed her love for being an athlete and the unique opportunity it provides to challenge oneself.
Alex Morgan’s Advocacy for Women’s Sports
Alex Morgan former U.S. soccer player, used her toast to advocate for the continued growth of investment in women’s sports. She reflected on her career, emphasizing the progress made when female athletes spoke up, pushed for more, and demanded what we deserved.
Morgan applauded the unprecedented global investment in new women’s leagues, teams, and events. She highlighted how this investment not only spurs exciting competition but also sparks careers, builds communities, and inspires the next generation of girls to dream big.
Her toast was a call to action, urging continued support and investment in women’s sports to ensure that the next generation has the opportunity to thrive in every aspect of the sports industry.
Prince Harry’s Invictus Games
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex shared the profound impact of sports on the lives of wounded veterans through the Invictus Games. Inspired by the 2013 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs Prince Harry founded the Invictus Games to provide a platform for veterans to heal and reconnect.
He spoke about how sports can be a form of medicine reaching places that surgery and therapies often cannot. The Invictus Games have grown to include competitors from 26 nations, demonstrating the power of sports to rebuild confidence, purpose, identity, and connection.
Prince Harry acknowledged the resilience and leadership of the Invictus Games competitors, emphasizing that the ultimate power of sport is its ability to bring people back to themselves and help them believe in a future.
LeBron James’ Gratitude for Sports
LeBron James the NBA star, concluded the toasts by expressing his gratitude for the impact sports have had on his life and the lives of others. He highlighted how sports bring families together, inspire generations, and foster a sense of unity.
James acknowledged that sports are the number one thing that brings the world together. He thanked TIME for the honor and for recognizing the influence of sports on society.
His toast was a testament to the power of sports to inspire and unite people, emphasizing the importance of sports in shaping lives and communities.
The TIME100 Sports Gala was presented by J.P. MorganToyotaTargetThe Macallan and the American Heart Association underscoring the broad support for the event and its mission to celebrate the influence of sports.
