GLOBAL NEWS: ESPN Names Pittsburgh Steelers Cheerleading Squad the Best in the World After Historic, Jaw-Dropping Performanc
pping PerformanceIn a stunning and unprecedented announcement that has reverberated across the sports world, ESPN has officially named the Pittsburgh Steelers Cheerleading Squad the best in the world, following a performance described by critics and fans alike as nothing short of legendary.
The decision came in the wake of the squadโs electrifying showcase at the 2025 International Cheer Championship Series in Las Vegas this past weekend. Performing in front of a global audience of millions and an esteemed panel of judges, the Steelers Cheerleaders delivered a flawlessly choreographed routine that combined elite athleticism, artistic innovation, and Steelers pride โ all set to a high-energy medley of music that had the arena on its feet from start to finish.
โA Performance for the Agesโ
According to ESPN senior analyst and former choreographer Kelly Rhodes, the Steelers Cheerleaders “redefined what professional cheerleading can be.”
The judges echoed the sentiment, awarding the Steelers squad the highest composite score ever recorded in the competitionโs history. The squad outperformed elite teams from Dallas, Los Angeles, Tokyo, and London โ cities long considered powerhouses in the global cheer scene.
A Historic Rise
What makes the honor even more extraordinary is the Pittsburgh Steelers’ relatively recent introduction of an official cheerleading squad. Historically, the franchise stood apart from most NFL teams by not featuring sideline cheerleaders. However, in 2023, the organization debuted a co-ed cheer squad with a focus on community engagement, inclusivity, and athletic excellence.
In just two short years, under the direction of head coach and artistic director Jasmine Fields, the team has evolved from a local novelty to a world-renowned troupe.
Global Impact
The squadโs victory has sparked conversations around the world about the evolving role of cheerleaders in professional sports. No longer seen as just sideline entertainment, todayโs cheer teams are multidisciplinary athletes, combining gymnastics, dance, strength, and performance artistry in increasingly competitive and globalized arenas.
In Pittsburgh, the announcement was met with a wave of local pride. Fans gathered outside Acrisure Stadium, waving Terrible Towels and blasting clips from the award-winning routine on massive outdoor screens.
Social media also erupted with hashtags like #SteelCityStunners, #CheerDynasty, and #BlackAndGoldBold, with celebrities and fellow athletes offering congratulations.
Whatโs Next?
Now crowned global champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers Cheerleading Squad is expected to embark on an international tour, performing in venues across Europe, Asia, and South America. Theyโve also been invited to appear in the opening ceremonies of the 2025 Pan American Games and are rumored to be producing a Netflix documentary chronicling their meteoric rise.