There are not many athletes who have been more dominant in their respective sports than Michael Phelps and Simone Biles in swimming and gymnastics respectively. Phelps is still the most decorated Olympian of all-time with 28 total medals. He won 23 gold medals during his Olympic swimming career and was one of the most popular figures in sports during his run.
Biles, on the other hand, has won 11 Olympic medals herself. She has won seven gold medals, two silver, and two bronze. Due to her incredibly ability, Biles was named the Sportswoman of the Year award at the 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid. She had won three of the same award previously. With this being her fourth win, Biles actually tied tennis star Serena Williams.
Following her big award win, Phelps took some time to send a four-word message to Biles on Instagram. “Congrats @simonebiles!! Well deserved,” he said with the GOAT and hand clapping emojis attached. Team USA also sent out a message in response to Biles’ award win. “There’s only one @Simone_Biles. 🐐 The 11x Olympic medalist is the #Laureus25 World Sportswoman of the Year!” the post on X read. Not only did Biles win the award, she also made a speech and was very excited to win the award and bring more attention to gymnastics. “Coming out here and winning a Laureus Award, I feel like is the most prestigious, athletic achievement that you can win,” Biles said. “So it’s really exciting it puts gymnastics on the map in a non-Olympic year, so hopefully we can keep doing that.”
A Powerful Moment in Sports History
In the world of elite sports, few moments transcend competition to become symbols of human emotion, strength, and solidarity. One such moment occurred when Simone Biles, a gymnastics icon, made a major announcement—and Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, responded with just four simple yet powerful words. The internet lit up, and fans everywhere paused. Why? Because sometimes, fewer words speak volumes. Let’s dive deep into what Biles revealed, how Phelps reacted, and why this brief exchange has captured the hearts of millions around the world.
The Major Simone Biles Announcement That Shocked the World
What Did Simone Biles Announce?
Simone Biles recently made headlines again—but not for nailing another jaw-dropping routine. This time, it was more personal. In a candid statement, Biles opened up about her return to gymnastics after stepping away due to mental health challenges.
Her announcement was not just about competing again—it was about reclaiming her story, stepping back into the spotlight on her own terms, and showing the world that resilience beats perfection every time.
Why This Announcement Matters
Biles has become more than just an athlete; she’s a voice for those battling mental health issues, especially in high-pressure environments. Her comeback represents strength in vulnerability, and millions are looking up to her not just for her flips but for her courage.
Michael Phelps’ Iconic 4-Word Reaction
What Did He Say?
When asked about Simone’s announcement, Michael Phelps simply said:
“I’m so damn proud.”
That’s it. Four words. And yet, it echoed louder than entire press conferences.
Why Those 4 Words Hit Hard
Phelps has long been an advocate for mental health, having struggled with depression and anxiety himself. He knows the darkness Simone faced. His reaction wasn’t performative—it was genuine, raw, and deeply personal.
This wasn’t about medals. It was about respect between warriors who’ve both battled their own demons.
A Bond Beyond Medals
The Mental Health Connection Between Biles and Phelps
Both Biles and Phelps have something rare in sports: vulnerability in the public eye. They’ve used their platforms to speak out about anxiety, depression, and the pressures that come with fame.
Phelps’ Own Mental Health Journey
After the 2016 Olympics, Phelps revealed he’d suffered multiple depressive episodes—even contemplating suicide. He has since become a passionate mental health advocate, founding the Michael Phelps Foundation to promote healthy living, especially among young athletes.
Biles’ Stand at the Tokyo Olympics
At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021), Biles shocked the world by withdrawing from several events, citing mental health concerns. Critics slammed her. Supporters praised her bravery. Phelps was one of the first to publicly support her then—and now again.
The Power of Saying Less
Why Michael Chose Just Four Words
There’s something profoundly powerful in brevity. When you’re Michael Phelps—someone who has said a lot over the years—choosing just four words shows restraint, clarity, and emotional weight.
Silence as Support
Sometimes, the best way to show you care is not with grand speeches but a few heartfelt words. Phelps’ “I’m so damn proud” wasn’t just approval—it was solidarity.
The Internet Reacts
Social Media Explodes Over the Moment
Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok users couldn’t stop sharing the clip of Phelps’ response. Hashtags like #ProudOfSimone and #PhelpsSupportsBiles began trending within hours.
What Fans Are Saying
Comments like:
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“Chills. That’s what a real champion says.”
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“Support like this changes lives.”
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“We need more athletes like Michael.”
Flooded timelines and reshared stories.
What Other Athletes Are Saying
Naomi Osaka Weighs In
Tennis star Naomi Osaka, another mental health advocate, commented on Instagram, saying:
“Beautiful. Real recognizes real.”
Serena Williams Shares a Powerful Message
Serena added a repost of the clip with just one word:
“LEGENDS.”
Sometimes, legends lift each other up.
Redefining What It Means to Be a Champion
Winning Isn’t Everything
For decades, athletes were taught to tough it out. Show no weakness. But now, thanks to voices like Biles and Phelps, that toxic mindset is finally shifting.
The Rise of Mental Health in Sports
Organizations like the NBA, NFL, and IOC are now pushing for better mental health resources. And it’s largely due to people like Simone and Michael refusing to suffer in silence.
A Legacy of Light
More Than Gold Medals
Sure, Phelps has 23 Olympic golds. Biles has dozens of world medals. But their true legacy? It might just be in the way they’ve opened doors for younger athletes to prioritize mental strength as much as physical ability.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Young gymnasts and swimmers are now being told:
“It’s okay to not be okay.”
All because of two legends who chose truth over trophies.
Final Thoughts – When Legends Speak, the World Listens
Simone Biles’ announcement was brave. Michael Phelps’ reaction was pure. Together, they reminded us that the strongest thing an athlete—or anyone—can do is to show up authentically. In just four words, Phelps gave Biles the kind of support that every human craves: unconditional pride. And maybe that’s what true greatness really looks like.
