LSU Tigers Gold Girls has been crowned the world’s best by ESPN after a stunning, record-breaking performance that captivated a global audience, showcasing unmatched athleticism and elevating the sport to new heights with their groundbreaking routine…..Details
In a groundbreaking moment for collegiate spirit squads and performance teams worldwide, the LSU Tigers Gold Girls have been officially named the World’s Best” by ESPN following a record-shattering, jaw-dropping performance that captivated a global audience. With unparalleled choreography, powerful execution, and a level of athleticism that left experts stunned, the Gold Girls have not only brought honor to Baton Rouge but have redefined the global standard for spirit teams.
The stunning routine took place at the 2025 International Spirit Showcase in Los Angeles, where top performance squads from around the globe gathered to compete on one of the world’s biggest stages. But no team drew more anticipation than LSU’s Gold Girls — and when they took the stage, they delivered something far beyond expectation.
Their routine combined elite-level tumbling, ballet-inspired precision, hip-hop explosiveness, and an acrobatic formation dubbed the “quad spin pyramid, a move that has never been attempted in any collegiate or professional setting. Performing to a high-energy medley of Beyoncé, Megan Thee Stallion, and Southern marching band classics, the Gold Girls commanded the stage with a presence and polish rarely seen, earning an unprecedented 99.8 out of 100 from the judges.
One judge called it “the most innovative and flawlessly executed routine ever seen at the showcase,” while another simply labeled it a perfect storm of art, sport, and Southern soul.
ESPN, who covered the event for global broadcast, made the announcement during the post-show coverage: **LSU’s Gold Girls had officially been crowned the “World’s Best Performance Team of the Year.”** It was the first time this prestigious title had ever been given to a collegiate group — placing the LSU Gold Girls in a new echelon of global recognition.
“This team didn’t just win,” said ESPN’s Spirit Division Director Monica Tran. They shocked the world and changed what’s possible in this sport.
The Gold Girls’ victory put them ahead of elite squads from Japan, Brazil, and the United Kingdom, and earned LSU the spotlight as a hub of spirit innovation.
Founded as part of the university’s Tiger Band program, the Gold Girls have long been a source of pride at LSU, regularly seen dazzling fans during halftime shows and high-profile events. But this performance marked a dramatic leap forward — not only in difficulty and artistic vision, but in cultural impact.
“These girls are athletes. They’re dancers. They’re leaders,” said LSU coach and choreographer Tasha Delaney. They represent everything we value at LSU — passion, discipline, and excellence.
Senior team captain Jalayna Rivers called the moment surreal. “We trained for this. We dreamed of this. And now the world knows what it means to be a Gold Girl.
Following the performance, social media exploded. The hashtag GoldGirls trended on X, TikTok, and Instagram, as fans around the world shared videos of the record-breaking routine. Even global stars like Lizzo, Simone Biles, and Beyoncé reposted and praised the performance.
LSU legend Shaquille O’Neal, a longtime supporter of the spirit programs, chimed in.
This ain’t your average dance team. These girls are game-changers. Period.
With ESPN’s “World’s Best” title now etched into LSU history, the Gold Girls are poised for even greater exposure. Rumors are swirling about a docuseries deal future international appearances, and multiple NIL opportunities for members of the squad.
But beyond the awards, the fame, and the viral moments, one thing is certain The LSU Gold Girls have raised the standard for collegiate performance teams everywhere.