GLOBAL NEWS: Florida State Cheerleading Squad Crowned World’s Best by ESPN After Show-Stopping Performance!
In a stunning and unprecedented achievement, the Florida State University cheerleading squad has been officially named the “World’s Best Cheer Team” by ESPN, following a jaw-dropping performance that captivated a global audience and redefined the very essence of competitive cheer. The historic announcement has elevated the FSU spirit squad from campus icons to international superstars overnight.
The recognition came after FSU delivered a flawless, gravity-defying routine at the World Cheer Showcase in Paris, France—an event that featured elite teams from across six continents. But it was Florida State that stole the spotlight, leaving judges speechless and the crowd on its feet for a standing ovation that lasted nearly five minutes.
“A Performance That Took the World by Storm”
ESPN’s global broadcast of the showcase was viewed by over 20 million people, and social media exploded with praise, reposts, and tributes. One ESPN commentator declared, “This wasn’t just cheerleading—this was art in motion, power in precision. Florida State just changed the global standard.”
The performance included never-before-seen stunt sequences, perfectly synchronized tumbling, and an emotionally powerful musical composition that blended traditional Seminole spirit with modern flair. The final pyramid stunt, which involved a quad-level rotation with six airborne flyers landing simultaneously, has been dubbed by fans as “The Miracle in Midair.”
FSU head cheer coach Tara Delaney, overwhelmed with emotion, stated after the performance:
> “We wanted to show the world who we are—not just as cheerleaders, but as athletes, artists, and ambassadors of the Florida State legacy. Tonight, we soared higher than we ever have before.”
A Historic Milestone
This marks the first time in history that a university cheer squad has earned such a distinction on a global stage. For Florida State, known primarily for its powerhouse football and athletics programs, this recognition adds a thrilling new chapter to its legacy of excellence.
What makes the achievement even more remarkable is the journey behind it. The FSU squad has spent the last two years training with Olympic-level gymnastics coaches, elite choreographers, and former Cirque du Soleil performers to push the boundaries of performance and athleticism. Their mission was clear: to elevate cheerleading into a globally respected sport—and they succeeded beyond anyone’s expectations.
Global Reaction
From Tokyo to London to Rio, fans, athletes, and celebrities took to social media to express admiration and awe. Beyoncé reposted the performance clip with the caption, “Artistry. Power. Queens.” NBA star Steph Curry tweeted, “That was the most insane cheer routine I’ve ever seen. Respect to FSU!”
Even rival schools acknowledged the feat. A University of Alabama cheer coach wrote, “Credit where it’s due—Florida State just changed the game for all of us.”
A Legacy in the Making
The Florida State cheer team is now scheduled for a global tour, with planned stops in Brazil, Japan, the UK, and South Africa to perform, teach, and promote cheerleading as a global sport. ESPN is also producing a documentary titled “Spirit of the Seminoles”, chronicling the rise of FSU’s cheer squad from collegiate contenders to international legends.
One thing is certain: Florida State didn’t just win—they soared. The world watched in awe as they lifted not only their teammates, but the spirit of a global audience.
