Simone Biles is small in stature — just 4-foot-8 — but her reputation looms large.
The Texas native started taking gymnastics classes at age 6 and earned an invite to the junior national team camp by 14. She had several world championship gold medals before she made her Olympics debut in Rio de Janeiro at age 19 in 2016. She scored her first Olympic gold medals in the individual all-around, vault and floor, a bronze medal in balance beam and a gold medal as part of Team USA.
After her triumphant run in Rio, Biles published her memoir and appeared on Dancing With the Stars, but she soon returned to the gym to prepare for the Tokyo Olympics. After pulling out of several Olympic events due to the “twisties,” Biles took a two-year break from competitions. Following her April 2023 wedding to NFL star Jonathan Owens, she returned to the mat in August 2023 and secured her spot on Team USA for the 2024 Paris Olympics nearly one year later.
It’s easy to look at Simone Biles today and see the gold medals, the historic moves named after her, and the legacy she’s built. But every legend has a beginning. For Simone, it started with pure love for the sport, unmatched talent, and a fierce drive even as a young girl.
A Tumbling Start — Discovering Gymnastics at Six
The Accidental Discovery That Changed Everything
Simone’s journey into gymnastics began like a scene from a movie. At just six years old, during a daycare field trip to a gymnastics center, her talent was spotted immediately. Coaches saw something different — her power, her agility, and how effortlessly she moved.
Homegrown Support: A Family That Believed
Raised by her grandparents (whom she calls mom and dad), Simone found not just stability at home, but unwavering support. They nurtured her dreams, homeschooled her for flexibility, and invested in her training.
Rising Through the Ranks — The Junior Years
Junior Debut and Early Success
Simone entered the junior elite level in 2011 and it didn’t take long for her to grab attention. She placed 3rd all-around at the American Classic and continued climbing the ranks with jaw-dropping routines.
Signs of Greatness
Her floor routines were already fierce, her vaults explosive. Even as a teen, Biles showcased qualities seen in only a handful of athletes: composure under pressure, incredible strength, and an unshakable love for performing.
The Leap to Senior Elite
2013 — The Breakthrough Year
The year Simone turned senior was the year everything changed. She won the 2013 U.S. National Championship, then took the world by storm by becoming World All-Around Champion — the first African American woman to win the title.
Changing the Game with Unmatched Difficulty
She didn’t just win — she redefined what was possible in gymnastics. Her routines pushed difficulty to new levels, earning her not just medals, but respect. Judges, fans, and even competitors were in awe.
The Road to Rio — Becoming a Global Phenomenon
2016 Olympics – Total Domination
Simone entered Rio 2016 as the favorite and didn’t disappoint. She earned 4 Olympic gold medals and 1 bronze, making headlines across the world. Her powerful performances made her a household name.
H4: Biles on Vault, Floor, and Beam: Unstoppable
Each routine had the crowd on their feet. Her Amanar vault? Flawless. Her floor routines? Electric. She had fun, brought charisma, and landed like a superhero.
Post-Olympics Fame and Challenges
Life After Rio – Dealing With the Spotlight
Fame came fast, and with it, pressure. From national endorsements to talk shows and even a best-selling autobiography, Simone’s life changed drastically. But underneath the glitter, she remained grounded.
Taking a Break to Protect Her Peace
In 2017, Simone stepped back. After years of intense competition, she took time to recharge, regroup, and grow — physically and mentally.
The Comeback Queen — Tokyo and Mental Health Awareness
Tokyo 2020 (Held in 2021): A Turning Point
Simone qualified for the Tokyo Olympics and was once again expected to sweep gold. But something no one saw coming happened — she withdrew from several events citing mental health struggles and “the twisties.”
What Are the Twisties?
Imagine losing your GPS mid-air. That’s the twisties — a terrifying mental block that affects spatial awareness. For gymnasts, it can be dangerous.
Redefining Strength and Bravery
Choosing Herself Over Medals
Simone shocked the world by prioritizing her well-being over medals. But it wasn’t weakness — it was strength. She sparked a global conversation about mental health, especially in sports.
The Support Was Overwhelming
From fellow athletes to fans worldwide, Simone received waves of support. She became not just a gymnastics icon but a mental health advocate — showing that champions aren’t just those who compete, but those who listen to their own needs.
The Legacy of Simone Biles
Moves Named After Her
Simone Biles has five skills named after her — two on floor, two on vault, and one on beam. These aren’t just hard; they’re nearly impossible. Yet she makes them look effortless.
Examples of Her Signature Moves:
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Biles on Floor: Double layout with half twist.
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Biles II on Vault: Yurchenko double pike.
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Biles on Beam: Double-twisting double dismount.
Each one is a testament to her bravery and innovation.
Gymnastics GOAT: Why the Title Fits
What Makes Simone the Greatest of All Time
It’s not just the medals. It’s her difficulty, her execution, her grace, and her impact on and off the mat. Simone Biles has redefined what greatness looks like in gymnastics.
Beyond the Mat: A Role Model for the Ages
Using Her Voice for Change
Simone has spoken out on racial injustice, athlete safety, and mental health. She’s shown courage in competition and courage in vulnerability. That’s real leadership.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Young girls (and boys) around the world look up to Simone. She’s proof that you can come from anywhere, face anything, and still fly higher than anyone imagined.
What’s Next for Simone Biles?
Return to Competition in 2023 and Beyond
In 2023, Simone made an epic return to the sport, winning the U.S. Classic and reminding the world that she’s still on top. As Paris 2024 approaches, fans are buzzing with excitement.
Conclusion: From Junior Champ to GOAT
Simone Biles isn’t just the greatest gymnast of all time — she’s a symbol of resilience, power, and transformation. From her early days flipping on daycare mats to dominating Olympic podiums and redefining what it means to be strong, her story is still being written.
FAQs About Simone Biles
Q1: How many Olympic medals does Simone Biles have?
Simone has won a total of 7 Olympic medals: 4 gold, 1 silver, and 2 bronze.
Q2: What are the “twisties” Simone talked about in Tokyo?
The twisties are a mental block where a gymnast loses spatial awareness mid-air, making routines dangerous and unpredictable.
Q3: How many skills are named after Simone Biles?
As of now, there are five official skills named after her — across vault, beam, and floor events.
Q4: Has Simone Biles retired?
Nope! As of 2024, she’s actively competing and aiming for the Paris Olympics.
Q5: Why is Simone Biles considered the GOAT?
It’s a combo of unmatched athleticism, groundbreaking difficulty, multiple championships, and her game-changing influence on gymnastics and mental health.
