Simone Biles isn’t just a name in the world of gymnastics; she’s a symbol of perseverance, excellence, and authenticity. From her groundbreaking Olympic performances to her advocacy for mental health and justice, Biles has left an indelible mark on and off the mat. Let’s dive into the incredible journey of this powerhouse athlete, exploring her achievements, personal life, and the qualities that make her one of the most inspiring figures of our time.
The Early Years: A Tumultuous Start with a Strong Foundation
Simone Arianne Biles was born on March 14, 1997, in Columbus, Ohio. From an early age, life wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. She and her three siblings spent much of their childhood navigating the foster care system. It was in 2000, when Simone was just three years old, that her grandmother, Nellie Biles, stepped in and began raising her.
Raised in a Catholic household in the suburbs of Houston, Texas, Simone grew up grounded by her grandmother’s love and guidance. Interestingly, her ties to Belize, where her mother is from, remain strong to this day. Simone even holds Belizean citizenship, a testament to the deep cultural roots she maintains despite growing up in the U.S.
It didn’t take long for her family to realize she had a gift. By the age of eight, Simone was already honing her craft, training rigorously with coach Aimee Boorman. Her homeschooling during high school allowed her to dedicate more than 30% extra time to training – a decision that paid off immensely.
The Rise to Stardom: From Junior Competitor to World Champion
Simone’s journey to the top began early. At just 14, she competed in the American Classic in Houston, securing a third-place finish. By 2012, she claimed first at the American Classic in Huntsville, earning a spot on the US Junior National Team. It was clear – Simone wasn’t just talented; she was exceptional.
In 2013, she made her senior international debut, and from there, it felt like Biles was unstoppable. She competed in the American Cup, shone at the City of Jesolo Trophy, and contributed to the United States winning gold. However, the year wasn’t without setbacks. A less-than-perfect performance at the US Classic led to a pivotal moment. Márta Károlyi invited Simone to a private camp, and with the added help of a sports psychologist, she refined her focus.
That same year, Simone was selected for the World Championships team, securing first place at the Artistic Gymnastics Championships. At just 16 years old, Simone was already outshining gymnasts far more experienced than her.
Olympic Glory: The 2016 Summer Games
The 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro became Simone’s global stage. Competing as part of the “Final Five” U.S. team, she dazzled audiences and judges alike. Simone clinched gold in the floor exercise, vault, and all-around categories. She also grabbed a bronze medal on the balance beam and helped the U.S. team secure gold.
By the end of the games, she was a four-time Olympic gold medalist at just 19 years old. Her flawless routines, combined with her electrifying personality, made her a household name overnight. But that was just the beginning.
Record-Breaking Performances and Continued Dominance
Between Olympic Games, Simone continued to rewrite the history books. She has won the U.S. Championship a record eight times. Her first national title came in 2013 at age 16, and her most recent victory in 2023 at age 26 proved she’s still at the peak of her powers.
Simone holds a staggering 25 World Championship medals, 19 of which are gold. It’s hard to imagine another gymnast coming close to her level of dominance anytime soon.
Tokyo 2020: A Test of Resilience
Simone’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic), Simone encountered a mental health crisis known as “the twisties.” This condition causes gymnasts to lose track of their position in the air, posing a severe safety risk.
Despite stepping back from several events, Simone still managed to claim a bronze medal on the balance beam and a silver medal with the U.S. team. Her decision to prioritize mental health over competition earned her widespread praise and brought critical attention to the often-overlooked psychological pressures athletes face.
Financial Success: Brand Endorsements and Business Moves
Simone Biles isn’t just dominating gymnastics; she’s excelling in business, too. In the years leading up to the Tokyo Olympics, she was the highest-paid Olympic athlete in terms of endorsements, earning at least $20 million between 2019 and 2021.
In 2015, she inked a long-term deal with Nike and partnered with GK Elite Sportswear to produce a line of leotards. By 2021, however, Simone made headlines by parting ways with Nike, citing misalignment with her values. Instead, she signed with Athleta, a brand committed to empowering women and fostering inclusivity.
The Athleta deal not only included a line of activewear but also plans for a post-Olympics national exhibition tour. Simone’s business decisions reflect her unwavering commitment to staying true to herself.
Personal Life: Relationships and Family
In 2017, Simone began dating fellow gymnast Stacey Ervin Jr. The couple parted ways in 2020, and later that year, she started dating NFL player Jonathan Owens. The two got engaged in February 2022 and tied the knot on April 22, 2023.
At 27 years old, Simone Biles continues to inspire, balancing her personal life, professional commitments, and advocacy work with grace.
Advocacy and Courage: Speaking Out Against Abuse
One of the most powerful moments in Simone’s career came in 2018 when she joined other gymnasts in publicly accusing USA Gymnastics physician Larry Nassar of sexual abuse. Simone bravely shared her story, highlighting the systemic failures within the organization. Though she chose not to attend Nassar’s trial, her voice added to the growing call for accountability and justice.
Awards and Recognition: Honoring a Legend
Simone Biles’ contributions extend far beyond sports. In 2022, President Joe Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom – one of the highest civilian honors in the United States. The recognition underscored not just her athletic achievements but also her impact as a role model and advocate.
What’s Next for Simone Biles?
Simone shows no signs of slowing down. Whether she’s competing, expanding her brand, or advocating for important causes, Biles continues to break barriers and redefine what it means to be a champion. With a net worth estimated at around $16 million, her influence extends well beyond the gym.
Simone Biles isn’t just the greatest gymnast of all time; she’s an inspiration to millions. Her journey serves as a reminder that greatness isn’t just about winning – it’s about resilience, integrity, and staying true to oneself.
