Overview

• At the 2025 ESPY Awards in Los Angeles, Sunisa Lee accepted the Best Comeback Athlete honor for her return to elite gymnastics.
• Lee stepped onto the red carpet with Dr. Marcia Faustin, the specialist she says never doubted her ability to compete again.
• In early 2023, Lee withdrew from Auburn University’s gymnastics team after being diagnosed with an incurable kidney disease that caused severe swelling.
• She defied medical expectations by returning in time for the 2024 Paris Olympics and adding three medals, including a team gold and two individual bronzes.
• Her public tributes to medical and coaching support underscore a renewed focus on athlete health and resilience as she looks ahead to future competitions.