Quick Read
- Lindsey Vonn faced a minor wardrobe malfunction at the 2025 ESPY Awards but handled it with grace and humor.
- Her strapless gown’s slit shifted, briefly exposing her underwear before she adjusted it.
- Vonn used the moment to share an empowering message about strength and femininity on social media.
- She was nominated for Best Comeback Athlete but lost to gymnast Suni Lee.
Lindsey Vonn, the celebrated Olympic gold medalist and ski champion, once again proved her resilience and grace under pressure at the 2025 ESPY Awards held on July 16. While walking the red carpet, Vonn experienced a minor wardrobe malfunction that quickly went viral online. However, instead of letting the incident overshadow her evening, Vonn used it as an opportunity to deliver a powerful message about empowerment, femininity, and self-confidence.
A Moment of Unintentional Exposure
Arriving at the ESPY Awards in a stunning chocolate-brown strapless gown with a daring hip-high slit, Vonn exuded confidence and elegance. However, during her time on the red carpet, the slit shifted slightly, revealing more than intended, including a glimpse of her underwear. With characteristic composure, Vonn quickly adjusted her look by strategically holding her clutch in place. The incident, though brief, was captured by photographers and rapidly circulated online.
In a humorous and empowering response, Vonn later took to social media to address the mishap. Sharing a series of photos from the evening, she wrote, “Strong and feminine… Doesn’t have to be one or the other. We can be both 💃🏼💪🏻 just be you.” She also joked, “And no… I didn’t skip leg day 😉.” Her remarks were met with widespread support and applause from fans and fellow athletes alike. As Sports Illustrated noted, Vonn’s ability to turn an awkward moment into a message of strength resonated deeply with her audience.
Highlighting Strength and Femininity
Vonn’s response to the wardrobe malfunction wasn’t just about deflecting attention. It was a deliberate statement on the intersection of femininity and strength, particularly for women in sports. Throughout her career, Vonn has been a vocal advocate for breaking stereotypes and redefining what it means to be a female athlete. Her post-ESPYs message reinforced her belief that women don’t need to choose between being strong and being feminine—they can embody both.
As Fox News reported, the 2025 ESPY Awards were also an evening of celebration for Vonn, who was nominated for the prestigious Best Comeback Athlete award. Although the honor ultimately went to gymnast Suni Lee, who overcame significant health challenges to win gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Vonn’s presence and message left a lasting impact.
A Broader Conversation on Confidence and Representation
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about how female athletes are perceived and represented in the media. For years, Vonn has been at the forefront of challenging the objectification of women in sports, advocating for their achievements to take center stage. Her ability to maintain confidence and humor in the face of public scrutiny serves as a reminder that even in moments of vulnerability, strength shines through.
In addition to her advocacy work, Vonn continues to inspire with her athletic accomplishments and philanthropic efforts. Since retiring from competitive skiing, she has focused on mentoring young athletes through the Lindsey Vonn Foundation, which supports girls in building confidence and leadership skills.
Looking Forward
The 2025 ESPY Awards may have been marked by a fleeting wardrobe mishap, but for Lindsey Vonn, the evening was yet another opportunity to showcase her resilience and poise. Her ability to transform an awkward moment into a platform for empowerment highlights why she remains a role model for millions.
As Vonn herself aptly put it, strength and femininity are not mutually exclusive. Her message serves as an enduring reminder that confidence and authenticity are the true measures of grace.