The tribute from Biles-widely regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time, with 11 Olympic medals and 30 World Championship medals-was more than a congratulatory post. It represented the passing of a symbolic torch between two of the most influential athletes of the 21st century as both women have redefined dominance of a sport, all while navigating public scrutiny and expectations that few others could bear. Their digital exchange wasn’t limited to Hall of Fame celebrations as just weeks earlier, the public witnessed a playful yet revealing moment between the two stars when on June 25, 2025, Serena posted a short video on Instagram from a yacht off the coast of Corsica.
Showcasing stunning ocean views and the Bonifacio White Chapel, she tagged Simone Biles with a lighthearted jab: “Jealous? @simonebiles” who promptly responded by insisting she will get revenge for the playful moment. A few days later, on July 2, she added to the friendly rivalry by posting her own sun-soaked scene, captioned: “putting my phone on DND again! are you jealoussss?”-tagging Serena once more. The pair continue to lift other women up in the sporting quests and journeys whilst combining to create one of the most interesting sports partnerships of all-time, certainly within the United States.
So in celebrating Serena’s induction into the USOPC Hall of Fame, Simone did more than acknowledge a milestone as they reinforce a continuum of excellence and resilience that stretches across sports and generations.
In the world of sports, few names shine as brightly as Simone Biles and Serena Williams. While each of them reigns supreme in her respective arena—Biles in gymnastics and Williams in tennis—their powerful friendship is a story that transcends medals, trophies, and titles. It’s a bond built on mutual respect, shared struggles, and a deep admiration that goes beyond the spotlight. Let’s take a deep dive into the unshakable friendship between these two icons and how they continue to uplift not just each other—but women around the globe.
The First Spark – How Simone and Serena Connected
A Meeting of Minds and Mettle
Their friendship didn’t begin with fanfare. It started in the background—quiet, genuine, and grounded in admiration. Simone looked up to Serena as a pioneer, and Serena saw in Simone a reflection of the fierce, unapologetic strength she’s always championed.
Shared History, Shared Pain
They bonded over more than wins. Both Simone and Serena have dealt with racism, criticism, and mental health struggles in the public eye. Instead of competing for attention, they stood side-by-side, using their platforms to speak up—and speak out.
Why Their Friendship Resonates So Deeply
More Than Just Athletes
Simone and Serena are not just sports stars—they’re cultural change-makers. And their friendship is a symbol of unity, resilience, and empowerment.
Social Media Support Squad
Their interactions on platforms like Instagram and Twitter give us glimpses of genuine support—heartfelt messages, shoutouts, emojis, and love-filled comments. It’s not performative. It’s personal.
When Simone Needed Support, Serena Was There
Tokyo Olympics & The World Stage
When Simone withdrew from several events during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics due to mental health concerns, Serena didn’t just stay silent. She praised her courage and publicly supported her decision, tweeting, “You should never have to make excuses for taking care of yourself.”
Standing Up for Self-Care
In a society that demands perfection from women—especially Black women—Serena’s backing was more than support; it was solidarity.
Serena’s Retirement and Simone’s Tribute
Passing the Torch with Grace
When Serena announced her evolution away from tennis in 2022, Simone posted a moving tribute calling her “the greatest there ever was.” That moment was more than just fanfare—it was a heartfelt thank-you from one legend to another.
Mutual Admiration Society
They constantly uplift each other in interviews, calling one another “role models” and expressing deep mutual gratitude.
What Makes Their Friendship Special?
No Ego, Just Empowerment
Despite their global fame, there’s no sign of ego in their relationship. Instead, it’s all love, respect, and motivation.
A Shared Fight for Representation
Both women have been trailblazers—not just for their sports, but for Black women and marginalized voices. Their friendship is a shared mission in motion.
Two Icons, One Global Impact
Role Models for the Next Generation
Young girls, especially girls of color, see themselves in Serena and Simone—not just for what they’ve achieved, but how they support each other. They’re proof that you don’t have to do it alone.
Uplifting the Sisterhood
They’re redefining what Black excellence and female friendship can look like on the world stage.
Favorite Moments of Friendship in Public
Social Media Love
From Instagram birthday posts to congratulatory tweets, their interactions are filled with authentic joy and mutual hype.
Public Praise in Interviews
Whether on talk shows or red carpets, both women take time to speak highly of one another without being prompted. It’s the kind of bond that doesn’t need to be staged.
How They Talk About Each Other
Simone on Serena
“She’s shown me that it’s okay to speak up. To say ‘no’ when you need to. That kind of strength… it’s revolutionary.”
Serena on Simone
“What Simone’s doing for gymnastics is what I hoped I did for tennis. She’s changing the game.”
Championing Mental Health Together
Breaking the Silence
Both women have been vocal about therapy, burnout, and emotional well-being. In doing so, they’ve made space for others to open up.
Redefining Strength
Their definition of strength includes vulnerability—a concept many still struggle to embrace.
More Than Sports—Their Activism
Speaking Up for Justice
From Black Lives Matter to body autonomy, Simone and Serena have used their voices to fight for causes close to their hearts.
Giving Back
Both have launched initiatives to support underserved youth, promote education, and provide opportunities to those who’ve been overlooked.
Celebrating Each Other’s Wins
No Competition, Just Cheers
Their bond isn’t about who’s better. It’s about being better together. They cheer each other on like lifelong best friends.
Lessons We Can Learn From Their Bond
Friendship is Powerful
When women support each other, especially in male-dominated fields, everything shifts.
Uplift, Don’t Compete
Their friendship teaches us that there’s room at the top for more than one queen.
Why This Sisterhood Matters Now More Than Ever
In an era where female rivalry often grabs headlines, the story of Serena and Simone is a breath of fresh air. It’s a reminder that solidarity wins. Always.
Conclusion: Friendship Goals on and off the Field
Serena Williams and Simone Biles prove that true friendship isn’t defined by proximity—but by presence. They’ve leaned on each other through the highs and the lows, showing the world what it looks like when women champion one another without hesitation.
Their friendship is authentic, inspiring, and impactful—and in a world that often pits women against each other, Simone and Serena are rewriting the narrative with love.
