Simone Biles is coming to Athens, Georgia. On Monday, Georgia’s gymnastics program announced on X (formerly Twitter) that one of the world’s greatest Olympic athletes will be in attendance for its first home meet on Jan. 17, 2025, against Boise State. Biles’ Team USA gymnastics coach Cecile Canqueteau-Landi is entering her first season as the Bulldogs’ co-head coach.
Biles’ trip to Athens will be her second visit to the state of Georgia in the last few months, as she and her fellow Team USA gymnasts performed at Gas South Arena in Duluth, Georgia on Oct. 13 as part of the Gold Over America Tour. Biles is coming off a historic performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she won four medals (three gold) to become the most decorated Olympic gymnast. Her three gold medals came in the team final, individula all-around final andthe individual vault final. She hasn’t made any decision on whether she will compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics yet according to USA Today’s Nancy Armour.
Canqueteau-Landi was named Georgia’s co-head coach with Ryan Roberts back on April 25. Due to her obligations to her club team and the Olympics, Canqueteau-Landi did not officially begin her duties as Georgia’s co-head coach until after the Paris Games. Georgia’s first meet of the season will come at the Denver Quad Meet on Sunday, Jan. 12 against Denver, Missouri and LIU. The Bulldogs are coming off a 7-12 season last year, where they made it to the NCAA Regionals. The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.
A Full-Circle Moment in Gymnastics History
In a move that tugged at the heartstrings of fans everywhere, Olympic champion Simone Biles reunited with her longtime Team USA coach during a recent Georgia gymnastics meet. The event was more than just a friendly visit—it was an emotional milestone, symbolizing loyalty, growth, and the powerful bond between athlete and coach. Let’s dive into everything that happened, what it means for gymnastics, and why this reunion is bigger than sports.
Who Is Simone Biles?
The GOAT of Gymnastics
Simone Biles is a name synonymous with greatness. With 7 Olympic medals and 25 World Championship medals under her belt, she’s not just breaking records—she’s redefining what’s possible in gymnastics.
Why She Stepped Away
After the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Biles took a well-deserved break to prioritize her mental health. Her courage sparked a global conversation about athlete well-being, proving she’s a champion on and off the mat.
The Coach-Athlete Bond That Made History
Meet Cecile Canqueteau-Landi—The Powerhouse Behind Biles’ Return
Cecile Canqueteau-Landi, one-half of the coaching duo behind Biles’ rise, was pivotal in reshaping her training after Rio. Her balance of technical discipline and emotional support helped guide Simone through some of the most challenging chapters in her career.
The Pair’s Dynamic Chemistry
Their partnership was built on trust. Cecile provided a calm, grounded presence, while Simone brought fire and fierce ambition. Together, they created magic—and history.
The Georgia Gymnastics Meet That Made Headlines
An Unexpected Appearance
Fans were stunned when Biles showed up at a college gymnastics meet in Georgia. But the real surprise came when she stepped onto the floor and locked eyes with Cecile, her former coach.
Why Georgia?
The meet was hosted at the University of Georgia, a hotbed for young gymnasts and future Olympians. Simone’s presence wasn’t just symbolic—it was a beacon of inspiration for the next generation.
Behind the Reunion—More Than Just a Meet-Up
Years of Trust, Sweat, and Growth
This wasn’t a casual hello. It was a reunion rooted in years of shared challenges and triumphs—from Olympic podiums to moments of vulnerability and resilience.
An Emotional Embrace That Broke the Internet
The image of Biles and Cecile embracing mid-floor was shared thousands of times across social media platforms. One fan tweeted: “This hug had more power than a triple-double.”
The Impact on the Gymnastics Community
A Role Model Moment
This reunion served as a powerful example for young athletes about the importance of gratitude, mentorship, and staying connected to your roots.
Fueling the Future of Gymnastics
By reuniting publicly, Biles and Cecile indirectly encouraged young gymnasts to value their support systems and understand the emotional layers of elite sports.
Social Media Reacts to the Reunion
Trending in Minutes
Within minutes of the reunion, #SimoneBiles and #GeorgiaMeet were trending on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. Fans shared personal stories, reactions, and throwback clips of the pair during Olympic training.
Influencers and Celebs Chime In
Even celebrities like Gabrielle Union and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson shared their admiration, reposting the iconic hug photo with messages like “This is what greatness looks like.”
What This Means for Simone’s Future
A Sign of a Possible Comeback?
While there’s been no official word, fans are buzzing with speculation that this emotional reconnection could signal a return to elite competition—or perhaps a coaching journey of her own.
Or Simply a Moment of Closure?
On the flip side, this may have been a heartfelt way for Simone to acknowledge and thank a woman who helped shape her legacy.
The Power of Gratitude in Elite Sports
Not Every Champion Looks Back
Many athletes move forward and never revisit the past. But Simone’s choice to reconnect speaks volumes about her character—and the deep respect she holds for those who helped her rise.
Coaches Are More Than Trainers
They’re mentors, motivators, and sometimes emotional anchors. Biles’ reunion is a masterclass in honoring those relationships.
Reunions That Change the Narrative
From Athlete to Advocate
Simone’s influence now stretches far beyond gymnastics. She’s an advocate for mental health, a fashion icon, and a cultural role model.
The Reunion That Sparked Healing
In a way, the Georgia meet wasn’t just about gymnastics. It was a healing moment—for her, for Cecile, and for fans who’ve followed their journey.
What Can We Learn From This?
Stay Connected to Your People
Even the world’s greatest need a circle. This story is a reminder to reconnect with those who lifted you up.
Legacy Isn’t Just Medals—It’s Moments
Champions are remembered not just for what they win but for how they make others feel. This reunion? Pure legacy.
Final Thoughts
More Than a Gymnast, More Than a Coach
Simone Biles and Cecile Canqueteau-Landi’s story goes far beyond floor routines and gold medals. It’s about mentorship, emotional growth, and the kind of human connection that transforms lives.
Whether Simone is eyeing Paris 2024, planning a coaching career, or simply cherishing a meaningful chapter from her past, this reunion will remain one of the most touching moments in modern sports history.
Conclusion
The reunion between Simone Biles and her former Team USA coach at the Georgia gymnastics meet wasn’t just a feel-good story—it was a moment that echoed far beyond the gym. It reminded us of the strength of relationships, the depth of gratitude, and the incredible journey of one of the greatest athletes of our time. As fans, we didn’t just witness a hug—we witnessed history.
