SI's 2015 Sportsman of the Year contenders

SI writers and peers of each candidate make the argument for their choice to win Sports Illustrated's 2015 Sportsman of the Year.

Have we ever seen a sporting year like 2015? From American Pharoah's run to the Triple Crown to Ronda Rousey's MMA dominance to Jordan Spieth's taking aim at golf's Grand Slam, it's been a remarkable year in athletic achievement, one of the best ever. Below are the leading contenders for 2015 Sportsman of the Year. Sports Illustrated's editors will make its (very tough) selection next month, but we want our readers to have their say. You can cast your vote here for who you think is the most worthy selection for Sportsman of the Year and below, you can find a series of essays from SI writers and peers of each contender that make the argument for each candidate. Sports Illustrated’s Sportsman of the Year will be announced on Dec. 14.