Gymnast Simone Biles has all but conquered the sport that shot her to global fame—and it seems she’s decided the time is right to try her hand at a new skill: horseback riding. Biles, 28, who has seven Olympic gold medals to her name, revealed on her Instagram account that she is taking regular riding lessons near her home in Spring, TX, having just returned from another whirlwind vacation in Australia.
The sporting super star shared an image from the local stables near her sprawling custom-built megamansion, which appears to have finally been completed after more than two years of work. “Another day, another horseback riding lesson,” she wrote alongside a snap of a stable door, before sharing a second image of herself wearing riding boots and jodhpurs.
However, while Biles has been lauded for her natural athletic abilities, it appears that her new-found love of horseback riding is somewhat at odds with her yearslong gymnastics training.
Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, has once again captured the world’s attention. This time, however, it’s not for a gold medal performance, but for her surprising choice to explore a brand-new sport in the comfort of her Texas home. While fans are intrigued by her new passion, the bigger buzz is whether this signals a fresh chapter in her life—or a warm-up for an Olympic comeback in 2028. In this article, we’ll dive deep into Simone Biles’ new sporting adventure, her life in Texas, and what her potential return to gymnastics could mean for the world of sports.
The Queen of Gymnastics Finds a New Passion
Simone Biles has spent years defying gravity, dominating the gymnastics world with moves so daring they were named after her. But now, she’s surprising fans by embracing a new activity—one that takes her away from the competition floor and into a more relaxed, personal setting.
So, what sport is she exploring in Texas? Reports suggest she’s enjoying pickleball, a fast-growing game that mixes elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It’s social, easy to play at home, and a perfect fit for someone who still craves movement but on her own terms.
Why Pickleball? The Allure of America’s Fastest-Growing Sport
Pickleball isn’t just a casual pastime anymore—it’s booming across the U.S. With celebrities, athletes, and everyday families picking up paddles, the sport has become a household favorite. For Simone Biles, it’s the perfect blend of fun and fitness without the pressure of international competition.
Unlike gymnastics, pickleball doesn’t demand grueling hours of training or intense risk of injury. For Biles, who has been open about her mental health journey, the sport provides relaxation, laughter, and connection with loved ones.
Life in Texas: Simone’s Haven Away From the Spotlight
Texas isn’t just home—it’s Simone’s sanctuary. She lives there with her husband, NFL star Jonathan Owens, enjoying a quieter lifestyle when she’s not competing. From home workouts to backyard games, Texas offers her space to breathe, recharge, and explore hobbies outside of gymnastics.
But make no mistake—Simone’s competitive spirit hasn’t disappeared. Even in pickleball matches with friends, she reportedly brings the same fiery energy that made her a gymnastics legend.
Hints of a 2028 Comeback
Here’s the part that has fans on edge: Simone Biles has hinted at the possibility of returning to gymnastics for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Imagine it—Biles competing in front of a roaring U.S. crowd, potentially adding to her already historic medal tally.
She hasn’t confirmed her comeback yet, but her comments suggest the door is wide open. The new sport may be her way of staying active, keeping her body sharp, and mentally resetting before deciding whether to commit to another Olympic run.
Balancing Fun and Fitness
Pickleball may look casual, but it’s actually a great workout. It keeps the heart rate up, improves hand-eye coordination, and builds stamina—all things a gymnast needs. Biles isn’t just having fun; she’s keeping her athletic edge in a less demanding way.
This balance between relaxation and performance could be her secret weapon if she does decide to make that 2028 comeback.
The Mental Health Angle
Simone Biles made headlines during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics when she bravely prioritized her mental health over competition. That decision sparked a global conversation about athlete well-being.
By embracing pickleball and other non-competitive activities, Biles shows us that athletes can find joy outside their primary sport. It’s a reminder that passion doesn’t always have to be tied to medals and world records.
What Fans Are Saying
Social media lit up with excitement when Biles shared glimpses of her new sporting passion. Fans are thrilled to see her happy and thriving, regardless of whether she’s on the mat or the court. Some are even speculating that her playful return to physical activity could be a strategic step toward regaining confidence for gymnastics.
Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens: A Power Couple in Sports
Let’s not forget that Simone Biles isn’t the only athlete in her household. Her husband, Jonathan Owens, is a safety in the NFL. Together, they’re redefining what it means to be a modern sports power couple.
It’s easy to imagine the two enjoying backyard games of pickleball, turning their Texas home into a mini sports arena. Their shared love for athletics fuels both their personal and professional lives.
From Gymnastics to Pickleball: A Symbol of Growth
Switching from gymnastics to pickleball may seem like a downgrade to some, but in reality, it’s a sign of growth. Biles is showing the world that life after elite competition doesn’t have to be dull. It can be playful, fulfilling, and still full of athletic challenges—just in a different form.
Could Pickleball Influence Gymnastics Training?
Interestingly, pickleball’s quick movements, agility, and hand-eye coordination share parallels with gymnastics. While it may not be as extreme, the sport still develops core skills. Could this be part of Simone’s long-term strategy to maintain her sharpness without overloading her body? It’s very possible.
The Road to 2028: What Would It Take?
If Biles truly aims for Los Angeles 2028, the journey won’t be easy. She’ll be 31 by then—still young in life but considered older in gymnastics. Her body will need careful training, recovery, and mental focus.
However, if anyone can defy expectations, it’s Simone Biles. She’s already rewritten the rulebook once—who says she can’t do it again?
Why the World Needs Simone Biles in 2028
Gymnastics has stars rising every year, but Biles is in a league of her own. Her comeback would inspire not just athletes but anyone who’s ever faced setbacks, doubts, or pressure. Competing on home soil in Los Angeles would make the story even more powerful—a full-circle moment for a once-in-a-lifetime athlete.
Simone Biles: Always a Champion
No matter what happens—whether she returns in 2028 or keeps enjoying pickleball in Texas—Simone Biles will always be remembered as one of the greatest athletes of all time. Her ability to adapt, embrace change, and inspire millions shows that her legacy extends far beyond gymnastics.
Conclusion
Simone Biles’ choice to embrace a new sport at home in Texas highlights her balance between joy, wellness, and athletic spirit. While fans celebrate her happiness in the present, all eyes are on whether she’ll step back onto the Olympic stage in 2028. Whether she’s smashing pickleball rallies or landing jaw-dropping flips, one thing is certain—Simone Biles is far from done inspiring the world.
