Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, has continually amazed the world with her achievements and resilience. Overcoming challenges like the “twisties” and mental health struggles, Biles has redefined what it means to be a champion.
Born on March 14, 1997, in Columbus, Ohio, Simone faced early hardships due to her mother’s substance abuse. Her grandparents, Ronald and Nelly Biles, adopted her and her sister, providing them with a stable home in Spring, Texas. At age six, during a daycare field trip to Bannon’s Gymnastics, Simone discovered her passion for gymnastics. Captivated by the sport, she began training seriously under Coach Amy Borman.
Simone’s prodigious talent became evident early on. By eight, she was already excelling in gymnastics competitions. At thirteen, she won gold in the floor exercise and bronze in the vault at the Junior Olympic National Championships. Her transition to elite gymnastics began in 2011, and despite initial challenges, she quickly made her mark.
By 2013, Simone dominated the World Championships, becoming the first African-American woman to win the all-around title. She continued to set records, winning multiple World Championships and making history with her innovative routines. Notably, in 2018, she won four gold medals and one silver, cementing her status as the most decorated gymnast in World Championships history.
Simone’s physical presence challenges traditional gymnastics stereotypes. Standing at 4’8″, she is muscular and powerful, defying outdated beauty standards. Her coaches, Laurent and Cecile Landi, adapted their methods to suit her unique strengths, fostering her exceptional skills.
During the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Simone experienced the twisties, a mental block that affects spatial awareness. Despite criticism, she prioritized her mental health, sparking important conversations about athlete well-being. Supported by her husband, Jonathan Owens, she later made a triumphant return at the Core Hydration Classic in 2023, proving her resilience and enduring greatness.
Simone Biles’s journey is a testament to her extraordinary talent, strength, and the importance of mental health in sports.
