For Simone Biles, Cecile Canqueteau-Landi and Laurent Landi were so much more than just her gymnastics coaches, they were family. The husband and wife team, who started coaching Biles in 2017, helped push the already phenomenal gymnast to new heights.
With the Landis, Biles mastered the Yurchenko double pike, the hardest skill ever performed by a woman in international competition, and the “Biles II” on floor, a jaw-dropping triple double twist. She won three world all-around titles and five Olympic medals between the Paris and Tokyo Games. The Landis relocated to Houston, Texas in order to train Biles at the World Champions Centre, which is owned by the gymnast’s parents. The couple also trained Jordan Chiles and Team USA’s two alternates, Joscelyn Roberson and Tiana Sumanasekera. But now, it seems the successful partnership between Biles and the Landis has come to an end. Biles posted a photo with her coaches on her Instagram Stories and wrote, “end of an era 🥹🤞🏾🤍. it’s not a goodbye, it’s a see you later.”
Biles has not confirmed whether she’s officially retiring after becoming the most decorated gymnast in U.S. history. However, message hinted that she may be ready to hang up her leotards for good once the “Gold Over America Tour” comes to a close. Biles’ message could also simply be a farewell to Cecile. Prior to the Paris Olympics, Cecile accepted a job to become co-head coach of the Georgia Bulldogs gymnastics team with Ryan Roberts, a move fully championed by the Biles family.
When the world thinks of gymnastics, one name rises above them all—Simone Biles. With her unmatched skills and record-breaking career, she has redefined the sport. But recently, it wasn’t her flips, twists, or medals that captured attention. Instead, it was her farewell message to her longtime coaches, a tribute that left fans and athletes worldwide in awe. In this article, we’ll dive into what she said, why it matters, and how it reflects the deep bond between athletes and their mentors.
The Legacy of Simone Biles
Simone Biles is more than just a gymnast—she’s a global icon. With seven Olympic medals and 25 World Championship medals, she has become the most decorated gymnast in history. But behind every successful athlete lies a support system, and for Simone, her coaches were at the heart of it all.
Why Her Farewell Message Went Viral
So, why did a simple farewell message make headlines? Because it wasn’t just a “thank you”—it was an emotional outpouring of gratitude. Fans saw a side of Simone that wasn’t about competition or perfection, but about love, loyalty, and respect.
The Bond Between Biles and Her Coaches
Simone’s longtime coaches have been by her side since her teenage years. They guided her not only through rigorous training but also through personal struggles, including times of self-doubt and public pressure. Her message highlighted this unbreakable bond.
A Coach-Athlete Relationship Built on Trust
Unlike many professional relationships, the one between Biles and her coaches was more like family. They were her mentors, confidants, and motivators, pushing her to limits she never thought possible.
Inside Simone’s Farewell Message
While the exact words were personal, the tone was clear: gratitude, respect, and admiration. She acknowledged the sacrifices her coaches made, their belief in her abilities, and their role in shaping her career and character.
A Touch of Vulnerability
Simone didn’t just praise their guidance—she admitted her journey wasn’t always easy. She faced challenges, setbacks, and moments where she wanted to quit. Her coaches were the ones reminding her of her strength.
Why This Farewell Matters in Sports
Athletes and coaches often part ways quietly, but Simone’s decision to make her farewell public was significant. It showed how vital mentorship is in sports. It wasn’t about medals—it was about the journey.
A Role Model for Future Athletes
By publicly recognizing her coaches, Simone set an example for young athletes everywhere: never forget the people who helped you climb the mountain.
The Impact on Fans and Fellow Gymnasts
Her farewell message resonated far beyond the gymnastics community. Fans expressed their admiration for her humility, while fellow gymnasts reflected on the importance of acknowledging their own support systems.
The Power of Gratitude in the Spotlight
In a world where athletes are often seen as untouchable, Simone’s heartfelt words reminded everyone that gratitude is powerful, even for the greatest of champions.
The End of an Era
This farewell also marked a transition. For years, Biles’ coaches were by her side during every Olympic and world championship. Their parting signaled a new chapter in her life, both personally and professionally.
What’s Next for Simone Biles?
Though her farewell sparked rumors of retirement, Simone has hinted that she’s not done with gymnastics yet. Still, this message felt like she was closing one chapter to open another.
Life Lessons From Simone’s Farewell
Simone’s goodbye to her coaches teaches us more than just about sports. It’s about:
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Appreciating the people who stand by you.
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Recognizing that success is never a solo journey.
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Leaving a legacy built on more than just achievements.
The Human Side of a Superstar
Often, fans see only the medals and records. But Simone’s farewell was a reminder that even the strongest athletes have tender, emotional moments.
Social Media Reaction
Within hours, her farewell message went viral. Fans flooded social platforms with comments like:
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“This is the Simone Biles moment that hit me harder than any gold medal.”
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“True greatness isn’t just about performance—it’s about gratitude.”
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“Her coaches must feel like the proudest people alive.”
The Emotional Ripple Effect
Her words didn’t just honor her coaches—they reminded all of us to appreciate mentors, parents, teachers, and guides in our own lives.
Simone Biles: More Than a Champion
If gymnastics were only about winning, Simone would still be the best. But her humility, gratitude, and honesty prove she’s more than a champion—she’s a role model for generations to come.
Conclusion
Simone Biles’ farewell message to her longtime coaches wasn’t just a goodbye—it was a love letter to mentorship, perseverance, and gratitude. It showed us that even at the peak of greatness, the heart remembers the people who helped you get there.
Her words turned heads not because of what she achieved, but because of how she chose to honor those who stood by her. In doing so, she left a message that will echo far beyond the gymnastics mat.
