Jackie Joyner-Kersee Sparkles In Embellished Ankle Boots on the FNAA 2024 Red Carpet

An Olympic legend has arrived at Cipriani South Street for the 38th annual Footwear New Achievement Awards. Three-time gold medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee made an entrance at the awards show, held at Cipriani South Street in New York City on Dec. 4, wearing an elegant black dress and dazzling ankle boots.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 04:   Jackie Joyner-Kersee attends Footwear News Achievement Awards (FNAAs) 2024 at Cipriani South Street on December 04, 2024 in New York City.  (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Footwear News via Getty Images)
Jackie Joyner-Kersee attends Footwear News Achievement Awards (FNAAs) 2024 at Cipriani South Street on December 04, 2024 in New York City.

The women’s heptathlon world record-holder dressed up in a high-neck long sleeve dress that fell just above the knee, which she wore over fishnet tights. The garment featured loose sleeves and an intricate lacy pattern; another feminine touch was added by a scalloped hemline. She accessorized with a tennis bracelet, hoop earrings and a silver sequined purse, while a pink manicure contributed a splash of color to her look.

A closer look at the shoes Jackie Joyner-Kersee wore to the 38th annual Footwear News Achievement Awards held at Cipriani South Street in New York City on Dec. 4.
A closer look at the shoes Jackie Joyner-Kersee wore to the 38th annual Footwear News Achievement Awards held at Cipriani South Street in New York City on Dec. 4.

Joyner-Kersee left her track shoes at home for the formal occasion, donning instead a pair of embellished black ankle boots. The shoes featured a pointed toe and a short shaft while a modest block heel took her to a new height.

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It was truly an intergenerational affair as Joyner-Kersee connected with fellow Olympian Gabby Thomas at on the FNAA red carpet. Both track and field gold medalists looked fierce in black-on-black ensembles, including pointed ankle boots, showcasing how the functional and fashionable style can elevate an outfit. Thomas was on hand to present New Balance with the Company of the Year award; she signed a deal with brand back in 2018 and raced in New Balance sneakers when she won the 200 meter women’s final at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Joyner-Kersee has raced in Adidas in the past and maintains a relationship with the brand. For example, Adidas traveled to East St. Louis in 2021 in support of the JJK Foundation, which primarily focuses on empowering youth in the local area and beyond. At the 2024 FNAAs, Adidas CEO Bjorn Gulden accepted the Person of the Year award.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 04: Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Gabby Thomas attend Footwear News Achievement Awards (FNAAs) 2024 at Cipriani South Street on December 04, 2024 in New York City.  (Photo by Craig Barritt/Footwear News via Getty Images)
Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Gabby Thomas attend Footwear News Achievement Awards (FNAAs) 2024 at Cipriani South Street on December 04, 2024 in New York City.

For 38 years, the annual FN Achievement Awards — often called the “Shoe Oscars” — have celebrated the style stars, best brand stories, ardent philanthropists, emerging talents and industry veterans. The 2024 event is supported by sponsors Listrak, Marc Fisher, Nordstrom and Vibram.

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