During the Paris Olympics last year, the Chicago Bears gave safety Jonathan Owens permission to miss part of training camp to support his wife, Simone Biles, dominate the gymnastics competition on the grandest of stages. Biles cemented her legacy as the greatest gymnast to ever live by increasing her Olympic tally to 11 medals — seven of them gold — after a historically successful stint at the Summer Games. Upon returning from the Olympics, Biles made sure to come and support her husband throughout his first season with the Bears. The gymnastics legend was seen attending multiple games at Soldier Field last season as she proudly cheered on her man.
This is exactly why it came as a bit of a surprise that the 28-year-old was nowhere to be seen for Owens and the Bears’ season opener against the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night. As it turns out, however, she had a valid reason for skipping the rivalry clash at Soldier Field. On Tuesday, Biles took to Instagram to reveal her whereabouts on Monday night. She was in New York City attending the 150th anniversary of luxury watch brand Audemars Piguet, where she was joined by fellow U.S. gymnasts Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles and Ally Raisman. In another photo, Biles posed alongside NBA star Kyle Kuzma and two-time WNBA MVP Breanna Stewart.
Simone Biles is not only a gymnastics legend but also one of the most recognized faces in sports. With her marriage to NFL player Jonathan Owens, fans have been keeping a close eye on her presence at football games. So, when Biles was noticeably absent from the much-anticipated Bears vs. Vikings matchup, questions started swirling across social media. Why wasn’t she there to cheer on her husband? Let’s dive deep into the real reason behind her absence, what it means, and how fans reacted.
Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens: A Power Couple in Sports
A Love Story That Inspires Fans
Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens have become one of the most talked-about couples in the sports world. She’s a world-class gymnast with Olympic medals, and he’s a strong safety in the NFL. Together, they embody dedication, resilience, and mutual support.
Biles’ Supportive Role as an NFL Wife
Since tying the knot, Simone has been a frequent presence at Owens’ games. From wearing custom jerseys to posting sweet Instagram stories, she has shown that her role as his biggest fan extends beyond the gymnastics mat.
Why Her Absence Was So Noticeable
Fans Expect Biles at Every Game
NFL fans are used to spotting Simone in the stands. Her energy, smiles, and supportive cheers make her a staple at games. So, when she wasn’t at the Bears-Vikings clash, fans immediately noticed.
Social Media Buzz
Within minutes of the game starting, posts popped up on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok asking: “Where’s Simone?” Her absence didn’t go unnoticed, and speculation quickly spread.
The Real Reason Simone Biles Missed the Game
Commitments Beyond Football
As it turns out, Simone Biles had prior commitments that kept her away from the Bears-Vikings matchup. Between her training schedules, public appearances, and advocacy work, her calendar is often packed.
Balancing Gymnastics and Personal Life
Simone is not just a supportive wife—she’s also still heavily involved in gymnastics and personal projects. Missing one game doesn’t mean she isn’t supportive; it highlights the reality of balancing two elite careers.
The Timing of Her Absence
Critical NFL Game
The Bears-Vikings game was a big one, making her absence more striking. Fans expected her presence because these matchups often draw high-profile attention.
Public Reaction
Some fans were disappointed, while others defended her, saying, “She’s allowed to have her own life, too!” This split reaction sparked even more conversations online.
Jonathan Owens’ Reaction
Focused on the Game
Owens, known for his calm and composed demeanor, didn’t let Simone’s absence distract him. He remained focused, showing professionalism on the field.
Mutual Understanding in Their Relationship
Close friends of the couple have often shared that their relationship is built on trust and understanding. Simone missing a game doesn’t change the love and support they share privately.
Why This Matters to Fans
Biles as a Public Figure
Simone isn’t just any fan in the stands—she’s a celebrity in her own right. People expect her to be present because of her public image.
Fans’ Emotional Connection
For many, Simone and Jonathan symbolize a power couple who balance love and career. That emotional connection makes her absence feel personal to fans.
Celebrity Presence in Sports Culture
Why We Notice Celebrity Partners
When celebrities date or marry athletes, fans expect to see them at games. Think of Gisele Bündchen supporting Tom Brady or Ciara cheering for Russell Wilson. Simone fits right into that tradition.
Media Amplification
The media loves to highlight celebrity appearances at games. When someone as big as Simone Biles isn’t there, it becomes newsworthy in itself.
The Bigger Picture: Simone’s Priorities
A Champion Beyond the Gym
Biles has been outspoken about mental health, self-care, and setting boundaries. Her absence might reflect her commitment to living life on her own terms.
Redefining Support
Support doesn’t always mean being physically present. Simone has shown countless times that she’s behind Owens—whether she’s at the stadium or not.
How Fans Reacted on Social Media
Speculation Runs Wild
Some fans assumed she had personal conflicts, while others joked she was “too busy winning gold medals to attend football games.”
Messages of Support
Many defended her decision, emphasizing that she’s entitled to personal space and time away from the spotlight.
Owens and Biles’ Future Together
Balancing Careers
Both athletes are navigating demanding careers. Their ability to support each other, even when not physically present, shows their strength as a couple.
A Lesson in Boundaries
Their relationship serves as a reminder that even power couples need balance, privacy, and understanding.
The Narrative Shift
From “Missing” to “Prioritizing”
Rather than framing it as her “absence,” fans and media could see it as her making space for her own commitments.
Owning the Conversation
Simone has never shied away from explaining her choices. If she addresses it publicly, fans will likely rally behind her.
Conclusion
Simone Biles’ absence at the Bears-Vikings game sparked curiosity, speculation, and plenty of chatter online. But the truth is simple—she had other commitments that took priority. It doesn’t diminish her love for Jonathan Owens or her role as his supporter. Instead, it highlights the reality that even superstar couples juggle packed schedules. Simone continues to inspire fans by showing that balance, boundaries, and self-prioritization are just as important as public appearances.
