Simone Biles, the American gymnastics legend from Columbus, Ohio, has started learning a brand‑new sport: horseback riding. In early September 2025, she shared posts from the stables near her home in Spring, Texas, showing herself bonding with a pony and smiling widely as she learned how to ride. Even though the 28‑year‑old has not said definitively she’s done with gymnastics, she has left the door open to a possible return for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, but for now, she’s enjoying exploring other things.
Simone Biles tries Horseback riding near her Texas home
Simone Biles is now horseback riding regularly near her Spring, Texas home. In August and early September 2025, she posted videos and pictures on Instagram of herself walking a pony, wearing riding boots and a helmet, captioning one post simply, “me, pony.” This fun new hobby seems to bring her joy as she adjusts to life after Paris and embraces new challenges outside gymnastics.
Her husband, NFL safety Jonathan Owens of the Chicago Bears, plays in Illinois, so the couple now splits time between Texas and Illinois. Meanwhile, their beautiful new lakefront home in Texas is complete, giving Simone a cozy place to unwind and ride.
Simone Biles’ thoughts on 2028 Olympics and what comes next
Simone Biles hasn’t ruled out a return to gymnastics for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, but she’s very thoughtful about it.
In April 2025, she told L’Équipe that although she might compete again, she’s uncertain, her body felt the heavy toll after Paris, and she said she would need a strong reason to come back.
When you think of Simone Biles, you think of flips, gold medals, and jaw-dropping performances that defy gravity. But recently, the gymnastics superstar surprised the world with an unexpected career switch. While fans are still wrapping their heads around this new path, whispers of a potential LA Olympics 2028 comeback are spreading like wildfire. So, is this just a detour, or could we witness the greatest comeback in Olympic history?
Who Is Simone Biles? A Quick Recap
Before diving into the shocking news, let’s take a step back. Simone Biles isn’t just any gymnast—she’s the gymnast. With 7 Olympic medals and 25 World Championship medals, she has redefined what’s possible in gymnastics.
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Born: March 14, 1997, Columbus, Ohio
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Height: 4’8″ (but a giant in the world of sports)
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Achievements: Widely regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time
Her legacy is untouchable, but her latest career move shows she isn’t afraid of change.
The Big Surprise: Simone’s Career Switch
So, what’s this career twist everyone’s buzzing about? Simone Biles has recently shifted focus to projects outside the gymnastics mat. While details vary, reports suggest she’s exploring roles in sports commentary, fashion collaborations, mental health advocacy, and even entertainment projects.
This shift isn’t just about leaving gymnastics behind—it’s about broadening her influence beyond medals and competitions.
Why Did Simone Make This Move?
On the surface, this change might seem sudden, but let’s break it down:
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Mental Health Prioritization: Ever since her brave withdrawal during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Simone has been a leading voice for athletes’ mental well-being.
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Career Longevity: Gymnastics is physically brutal, and few athletes compete at elite levels past their mid-20s.
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Passion for New Challenges: She’s already the GOAT in gymnastics. Why not conquer new arenas?
This isn’t quitting—it’s evolving.
Fan Reactions: Shock, Excitement, and Hope
Fans worldwide took to social media with mixed emotions. Some were shocked, others celebrated her branching out, and many couldn’t help but wonder: “Is this the end, or just a pause?”
Memes, hashtags, and fan theories flooded Twitter and TikTok. The general vibe? People admire her boldness but secretly hope she’ll stick around for one more Olympic show.
The LA Olympics 2028 Question
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: LA 2028.
At that time, Simone will be 31. In gymnastics terms, that’s considered “veteran age,” but let’s be real—if anyone can pull it off, it’s Simone Biles. Her training discipline, unmatched skillset, and sheer determination make a potential comeback less of a fantasy and more of a possibility.
Plus, competing on home soil in Los Angeles would be the perfect stage for a legendary finale.
Could She Realistically Make a Comeback?
Some experts say yes. While gymnastics is demanding, older athletes have made comebacks before. Oksana Chusovitina, for example, competed in the Olympics well into her 40s. Simone’s body may face challenges, but her mind, experience, and fan support could be the ultimate motivators.
The Role of Mental Health in Her Decisions
It’s impossible to discuss Simone’s journey without addressing mental health. By openly talking about the “twisties” in Tokyo, she changed the global conversation on athlete well-being. Any decision she makes about LA 2028 will likely weigh both physical readiness and mental clarity.
Her Husband’s Support: Jonathan Owens
Behind every strong woman is a supportive partner. Simone’s husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, has been vocal about cheering her on—no matter the path she chooses. Could his encouragement play a role if she considers training again? Fans think so.
From Gymnastics to Business: Building a Brand
This career switch isn’t just about passion projects—it’s also smart business. Simone is building a long-term brand that includes endorsements, fashion partnerships, and potentially her own ventures. Gymnastics may have made her a star, but her business moves will keep her in the spotlight.
Public Speaking and Advocacy Work
One of Simone’s most powerful roles now is as a speaker. She’s been using her voice to promote mental health awareness, equality in sports, and empowering young athletes. This new path shows her influence extends far beyond flips and routines.
Fashion, Media, and Beyond
Don’t be surprised if you see Simone front-row at major fashion shows or starring in documentaries. She has the charisma, relatability, and star power to dominate industries outside of sports.
What This Means for Gymnastics
Some may see her stepping back as a loss for gymnastics, but in reality, it could be a gain. Her story inspires new generations to dream big, not just in gymnastics but in life. Simone proves you don’t have to be confined to one path.
The Speculation Game: What’s Next?
Here’s what fans are betting on:
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Sports commentary role at the next Olympics
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Expanding her fashion line
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Launching her own non-profit for young athletes
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Surprise LA 2028 comeback
Whichever route she takes, one thing is guaranteed: Simone Biles won’t stop inspiring.
Conclusion: Simone’s Next Chapter
Simone Biles’ career switch isn’t an ending—it’s a plot twist. Whether she steps onto the Olympic stage in 2028 or not, her legacy is already written in gold. But let’s be honest: the thought of seeing her fly through the air in LA is just too good to ignore. Until then, fans will cheer her on in every arena she chooses to conquer.
