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Michael Phelps and Nastia Luikin
The 2009 ESPY Awards turned the clock back to last summer’s Beijing Olympics, awarding Best Male Athlete to swimmer Michael Phelps, Best Female Aythlete to gymnast Nastia Liukin and Best Moment the United States swim relay team that won the gold medal by a fraction of an inch of Phelp’s finger.
Phelps selection as Male Athlete of the year ended a long reign by golfer Tiger Woods (who had to settle for Best Male Golfer). Phelps beat out fellow nominees Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and racing star Jimmie Johnson.
Liukin beat out swimmer Natalie Coughlin, Maya Moore, WNBA star Candace Parker and tennis sensation Serena Wiliams.
