Simone Biles recently faced a tragic event with the death of her brother-in-law, Tevin Biles-Thomas. He passed away due to complications from a car accident. The incident has been deeply impactful for Biles and her family, and they have been mourning his loss privately. This tragic event adds to the personal challenges Biles has had to navigate alongside her illustrious gymnastics career.
Early Life
- Adoption: Simone and her sister Adria were adopted by their maternal grandparents, Ron and Nellie Biles, when Simone was six years old. They provided a stable and supportive environment for her.
- Introduction to Gymnastics: Simone’s gymnastics journey began when she was six years old during a daycare field trip. She showed immediate promise and soon joined a local gym.
Gymnastics Career
- Early Competitions: Biles began competing at a national level in 2011, quickly rising through the ranks.
- Senior Debut: She made her senior international debut in 2013, winning the all-around title at the World Championships in Antwerp, Belgium.
Major Achievements
- Olympic Games:
- 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Biles won four gold medals (team, all-around, vault, and floor) and one bronze (balance beam). Her performance solidified her status as a gymnastics legend.
- 2020 Tokyo: Despite facing significant mental health challenges, Biles won a bronze on balance beam and a silver in the team competition.
- World Championships: Biles has won a record 25 World Championship medals, including 19 golds, making her the most decorated gymnast in World Championships history.
Challenges and Advocacy
- Mental Health: During the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Biles withdrew from several events due to a condition known as the “twisties,” which affects spatial awareness. Her openness about mental health brought widespread attention to the pressures athletes face.
- Nassar Scandal: Biles was among the many gymnasts who were survivors of abuse by former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar. She has been vocal about the need for better protection for athletes and accountability within sports organizations.
Personal Life
- Education: Biles graduated from high school in 2015 and deferred her college education to focus on her gymnastics career. She later enrolled in online courses at the University of the People, studying business administration.
- Relationships: Biles is in a relationship with NFL player Jonathan Owens. The couple frequently shares glimpses of their life together on social media.
Legacy
Simone Biles’ impact on gymnastics goes beyond her medal count. She has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the sport, with several moves named after her, known for their difficulty. Her advocacy for mental health and athlete safety continues to inspire many. Biles’ combination of athletic excellence, resilience, and advocacy has cemented her legacy as a transformative figure in sports.
