From Flip-Flops to Olympic Gold: The Extraordinary Journey of a Gymnastics Legend Simone Biles
1 Born in Ohio, raised a Texan

Simone Biles a legendary four-time Olympic champion is known for her unwavering support of Texas teams in sports. However what many may not realize is that she was not actually born in Texas. Simone's journey to becoming a Texan began in her early years starting on March 14 1997 when she was born to her mother Shanon Biles in Columbus Ohio.
Despite being born in Ohio Simone's path led her to eventually become a proud Texan. Her childhood years were marked by changes and challenges as she and her siblings did not remain together as a family in Ohio for long. Simone's inspiring story is a testament to her resilience and determination shaping her into the incredible athlete and role model she is today.
2 Challenging family issues

Simone Biles and her siblings faced a challenging situation early on in their lives when they had to cope with their mother's struggle with drug addiction. Despite the difficulties they found solace in each other's company and supported one another through this tough time. However as young children they were still vulnerable and needed stability and care.Recognizing the need for support Biles' maternal grandparents intervened and took on the responsibility of caring for the children as best as they could under the circumstances.
Unfortunately when Biles was just three years old her mother was deemed unfit to care for her children leading to the heartbreaking decision to place them in foster care.This early adversity in Biles' life highlights the resilience and strength that would later define her as a world-renowned gymnast. Despite facing challenging circumstances she was able to overcome obstacles and achieve success through hard work and determination.
3 Not fond of cats

When Simone Biles was just a young child living with her biological mother she remembers a stray cat that lived outside their home. She couldn't help but notice how well cared for and nourished the cat was a stark contrast to the lack of care and nurture she felt herself. She admits that as a child she felt a twinge of jealousy towards the cat for always having enough food while her own family struggled.
Over time she has come to terms with this difficult part of her childhood but her fear of cats still lingers. In a lighthearted moment during an interview with The Today Show in 2016 Simone joked that her dislike of cats may stem from this early experience. "I think that's why even to this day I don't like cats... They scare me" she shared with a smile.
4 A tough decision to make

When little Simone was placed back into foster care her grandparents Ron Biles and Nellie Cayetano Biles were determined to support their grandchildren in any way they could. However with two teenage boys already under their care the idea of taking on four more children seemed like a daunting task. This left Ron and Nellie with a difficult decision to make.
They had to weigh the options of either taking in the youngest child Adria or bringing Simone back into their home. The couple deliberated on what would be the best choice for their family and the well-being of the children involved. Ultimately they knew that whatever decision they made it would be made out of love and the desire to provide a stable and nurturing environment for their grandchildren.
5 The tough road down divorce and separation

Divorce and separation within a family can be incredibly difficult especially when it involves a mother being separated from her children. The idea of this happening is truly heartbreaking regardless of the circumstances. In the case of the Biles family not only were the children at risk due to their mother's situation but there was also the added fear of the siblings being torn apart from each other.
Despite the challenges they faced there was a glimmer of hope in the form of finding a suitable adoptive family for the children. This stroke of luck provided some comfort in an otherwise tumultuous situation. It's a relief to know that the siblings were able to stay together and find a new home where they could continue to grow and thrive.
6 A reunion for the Biles family

It is not uncommon for children in foster care to move from one home to another especially as they get older and the chances of adoption decrease. However the Biles' children were fortunate to have a unique situation. They were all placed with the same foster care family and soon were about to be reunited with their biological family in a surprising way.
Ron Biles shared with Time Magazine that when the social worker informed him that the children were in foster care he immediately offered to take them in. This act of kindness and compassion would ultimately lead to a heartwarming reunion for the Biles family.
7 Apart, but still together

Simone Biles' grandfather made the heartfelt decision to keep her and her younger sister Adria together rather than separating them. Fortunately Ron's sister Harriet stepped in and adopted Simone's older siblings Tevin and Ashley. After enduring three years of instability Simone was around five years old when her grandparents officially adopted her and Adria.
While the siblings were still technically separated they were at least able to remain with their family and receive the care and love they needed. This tumultuous upbringing undoubtedly had an impact on young Simone shaping her resilience and determination as she navigated through challenging circumstances.
8 Hard headed

From a young age Simone Biles experienced frequent changes in her living situation moving between her mother grandparents and foster care. It must have been incredibly challenging and bewildering for a young child to navigate such uncertainty. Despite the tumultuous circumstances Biles demonstrated remarkable resilience and strength.
Her positive attitude and determination enabled her to overcome the difficulties she faced even when the situation seemed overwhelming. However amidst the chaos there is one particular emotion that Biles vividly remembers from her time in foster care.
9 Unseen and unheard

Simone Biles has shared that her experience of being moved around as a child in foster care did not leave any lasting negative impact on her despite the feelings of being passed off and overlooked. She recalls feeling like nobody knew or cared to know her and that her talents and voice didn't matter. In a 2018 interview with CNN she expressed the emotional toll of feeling unseen and unheard.
It's heartbreaking to hear how Simone felt during that time but she is a resilient individual who was able to find light in the darkness. She used her inner strength to navigate through the potential emotional pain of her past experiences.
10 Always room for being positive

Looking back it's clear that the decision not to adopt Simone Biles was a missed opportunity for any family. However Simone Biles didn't dwell on her past experiences in foster care as she felt grateful for the love and stability her foster family provided. In an interview with the American Academy of Achievement Biles reflected on her time in foster care acknowledging that while she remembers it it wasn't a traumatic experience for her.
She expressed gratitude for the kindness and support she received from her foster family emphasizing how fortunate she felt to have stayed in one place with loving caregivers. Despite the positive aspects of her time in foster care Biles mentioned that there was one unique aspect about her foster family that stood out to her.
11 The untouched trampoline

From a young age Simone Biles displayed a passion for gymnastics that was clear to everyone around her. Even her brother couldn't resist joining in on the fun showing off his own jumping skills. Luckily their foster family had a trampoline in the backyard which seemed like the perfect fit for two children with a knack for gymnastics.
However despite the mesmerizing presence of the trampoline Simone's foster family had a strict rule in place - the kids were not allowed to play on it. This might seem surprising given Simone's natural talent and interest in gymnastics but rules were rules in their household. So while the trampoline sat unused in the backyard Simone had to find other ways to practice and hone her skills.
12 Other ways to have fun

Imagine being a kid and having a trampoline in your backyard but not being allowed to go near it. It must have been tough for Simone especially since she had such a natural talent for aerobics. The rule wasn't because her parents were being mean it was just a precaution because of insurance issues. Despite not being able to jump on the trampoline Simone and her brother found other ways to have fun.
Whether it was flipping over objects or jumping off of furniture they always managed to entertain themselves. Simone recalls how her brother would show off by flipping off the swing inspiring her to try and copy his moves. It's amazing to think about how Simone's early experiences with physical activities eventually led her to become a world-class gymnast. It just goes to show that sometimes even when faced with limitations determination and creativity can lead to great things.
13 There’s nothing that can’t be flipped off from

The dynamic duo consisting of Simone and her partner were known for their love of jumping and flipping off of various objects. However it wasn't until a few years later when Simone discovered her true potential after encountering a trampoline. This passion for flipping off of anything and everything continued even after she was adopted by her grandparents whom she affectionately refers to as "Mom" and "Dad".
Simone's love for flipping extended to even the most unconventional objects such as mailboxes. "I remember flipping off mailboxes when I first moved to Houston even though my parents would get mad at me for it" Biles shared in an interview with NBC's Boston Sports. This fearless attitude and determination to push her limits ultimately led to Simone unlocking her full potential as a gymnast.
14 A different mindset

Despite facing some challenges during the transition from her mother's care to foster care and eventually living with her grandparents Simone Biles remained resilient and unfazed. She did not let the changes in her living situation affect her outlook on life. As a young girl Biles had a unique perspective on adoption believing that every child was adopted.
She saw her own adoption as a normal part of life and did not understand why others made a big deal out of it. This mindset helped her navigate through the ups and downs of her childhood experiences. Biles firmly believes that everything happens for a reason including the obstacles she faced growing up. Perhaps these challenges were just the catalyst she needed to discover her passion for gymnastics.
15 A glance at magic

When Simone was around six years old her parents (who were actually her grandparents) enrolled her in a daycare camp that offered a variety of enjoyable activities. One of Simone's favorite parts of the camp was when they visited the gymnastics studio Bannon's Gymnastix where they could play on trampolines and mats.
The gym was divided into two sections – the front area for recreational use and the back area for professional and competitive gymnastics. One day as Simone was happily bouncing on the trampoline she noticed something that caught her eye. It was something that seemed almost magical to her.
16 I can do that too

As a young child the lively and spirited girl always had a knack for jumping off furniture and climbing walls. It wasn't long before she found herself drawn to the trampoline and mat during her time at camp. However it was a serendipitous encounter with a group of girls training in the gym studio that truly ignited her passion.
Watching in awe as they skillfully tumbled and flipped on the trampolines and beams she felt a spark of inspiration. "I saw those girls and thought 'I can do that too'" Biles recounted to the American Academy of Achievement. Intrigued and motivated by their movements she eagerly began to emulate their skills her heart racing with excitement. This moment marked the beginning of a journey that would ultimately lead her to greatness in the world of gymnastics.
17 The discovery of her talent

One of the coaches noticed Simone on the sidelines of the studio effortlessly mimicking the impressive tricks performed by a group of girls. Intrigued the coach approached Simone and inquired about her background in stunts or gymnastics. Despite enjoying playful jumping activities with her siblings at home Simone had never formally trained in gymnastics before.
Surprised by Simone's natural talent the coach decided to send her home with a note for her parents. This unexpected encounter could potentially lead to a new and exciting opportunity for Simone to explore the world of gymnastics and perhaps even pursue it as a serious passion or hobby.
18 A life change waited for her

The coaches at the gym were amazed by Simone's natural talent and skill despite the fact that she had never received any formal training. Impressed by her abilities they decided to reach out to her parents and inform them of their thoughts. Before she knew it Simone found herself gradually immersing herself in the world that she would eventually come to dominate.
Reflecting on the moment she received the letter from the coaches Simone admitted that it all seemed like a blur to her. She confessed to the American Academy of Achievement that at that time she never imagined how much her life would change or the success she would achieve. Joining the gym marked the beginning of her journey towards becoming the accomplished individual she is today.
19 A gateway to her passion

Following a heartfelt letter from her coaches Biles' parents decided to enroll her in gymnastics classes. This decision opened up a whole new world of excitement and passion for Simone who quickly fell in love with every aspect of the sport.
As the years went by Simone's determination to be the best drove her to excel at both the junior and national levels. Her infectious attitude brought a sense of lightness to the sport while her performances on the floor balance beams vault and in all-around events dazzled spectators with their golden brilliance. Simone truly shined in every aspect of gymnastics showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport.
20 The withdrawal

In 2021 Simone Biles was at the top of the gymnastics world capturing everyone's attention with her incredible talent. As the spotlight shone on her once again anticipation grew for her to dominate the competition and secure another gold medal. However despite the high expectations Biles couldn't shake the feeling that the world was not in her corner. Feeling the weight of the pressure and expectations the young star stunned viewers by making the difficult decision to withdraw from the tournament.
Although she was undeniably the best gymnast in the world Biles prioritized her mental health and well-being above all else. The announcement left fans and spectators in awe realizing the importance of self-care and mental health even for the most accomplished athletes. Simone Biles' decision to step back served as a powerful reminder that taking care of oneself is paramount even in the face of immense success and pressure.
21 Prioritizing her mental health

In a recent announcement Simone Biles shared some deeply personal insights into her decision to withdraw from the Olympics. "I have to prioritize my mental health and do what's best for me" Biles explained. "I've noticed a lack of trust in myself and a decrease in the joy I used to feel. This Olympic Games was supposed to be for me but I'm struggling with inner demons when I step onto the mat."
Biles tearfully expressed her struggles revealing the emotional toll of competing at the highest level. Despite facing criticism and opinions from around the world Biles found unwavering support from her teammates. Their solidarity and understanding provided her with the strength and reassurance she needed during this challenging time.
22 A comeback in Paris, 2024?

After taking a step back from competition Biles made a triumphant return to the balance beam much to the delight of her fans. Winning the bronze medal was a heartwarming moment for everyone who has followed her journey. Now the burning question on everyone's mind is whether this marks the end of Biles' competitive career or if we will see her back in action aiming for gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
During an interview with NBC Biles hinted that she is not closing the door on a potential comeback to the Olympics. She expressed the importance of savoring her experience at the Tokyo Olympics and reflecting on her accomplishments throughout her career. Biles noted that after the 2016 Olympics she didn't take the time to fully appreciate her achievements but now she is determined to do so. Her resilience and dedication to her sport continue to inspire fans around the world leaving us all eager to see what the future holds for this remarkable athlete.
23 By her side through thick and thin

It must have been an incredibly challenging moment for Simone Biles to make the decision to step away from the Olympic tournament. With the weight of expectations and the thrill of the Games surrounding her it couldn't have been easy. However by prioritizing her mental health and well-being Biles not only made a wise and courageous choice for herself but also shed light on the significance of this important issue on a global scale.
Support and admiration poured in from fans and celebrities alike on social media applauding Biles for her bravery and honesty. In doing so she not only solidified her status as a national hero but also sparked a vital conversation about the importance of mental health in sports and beyond. By taking this stand Biles has become an inspiration to many showing that it's okay to prioritize one's mental health even in the face of immense pressure and expectation.
24 Inspired

In 2012 Simone Biles found inspiration in her gymnastics teammates and friends who made up the "Fab Five" or "Fierce Five" - Gabby Douglas McKayla Maroney Aly Raisman Kyla Ross and Jordyn Wieber - as they dominated at the Olympics. Witnessing their success made her realize that she too could compete at that elite level.
After participating in a training camp with Kyla and Jordyn Biles was struck by the thought "Maybe I can achieve that level of greatness one day." Despite training alongside Olympic champions and being recognized for her talent Simone credits her success to someone much closer to her heart.
25 25 World medals!

Simone had dedicated herself to gymnastics from a young age starting her training at just six years old. Despite her years of practice she never imagined herself competing in the Olympics in 2012. She felt unprepared and doubted her abilities compared to other elite gymnasts.
However fast forward a few years and Simone Biles has become a dominant force in the gymnastics world accumulating an impressive 25 World medals. This remarkable transformation begs the question: how did she go from feeling inadequate for the Olympics to becoming one of the most decorated gymnasts of all time?
26 Unwavering dedication

At the young age of 14 Simone Biles was already making significant life choices that would shape her future. Like all aspiring Olympic athletes she knew that achieving her goal would require an immense amount of dedication and hard work during a rigorous training period.
For Biles this meant sacrificing countless hours and making tough decisions in pursuit of her passion for gymnastics. However she and those closest to her were confident in her abilities and believed that her talent was undeniable. Every choice she made was carefully considered and driven by her unwavering determination to succeed in her sport.
27 Setting goals

Simone Biles first started her journey in gymnastics back in 2003 never imagining that just ten years later she would be competing on the world stage. Her rapid success can be attributed to her intense training regimen and unwavering passion for the sport. However there was another key factor that propelled Biles to greatness.
In an interview with the American Academy of Achievement Biles shared that she began setting goals early on in her gymnastics career envisioning what she wanted to achieve in the sport. As she continued to progress and mature she set even more ambitious goals for herself. By the time she was 14 years old Biles had already made numerous sacrifices in pursuit of her dreams. This dedication and focus on setting and achieving goals undoubtedly played a significant role in her meteoric rise to success in the world of gymnastics.
28 Letting go for a greater dream at 14

Reflecting on her journey she came to the realization that her unwavering commitment to gymnastics was rooted in her understanding of the importance of setting and achieving goals. It wasn't a decision made lightly as she sacrificed traditional schooling and missed out on typical teenage experiences like school dances and prom.
In an interview with the American Academy of Achievement she candidly shared "I decided to leave public school and transition to homeschooling. I let go of those typical high school experiences that most kids enjoy or aspire to but it was a sacrifice I was willing to make in pursuit of my passion for gymnastics." This sacrifice was not easy but it ultimately paved the way for her to pursue her dreams and excel in her chosen sport.
29 A star is born

Simone Biles may not have had a typical teenage experience but she faced many of the same challenges that adolescents encounter. Her journey to global success began at the age of 15 in 2013 when she wowed audiences at the World Championships in Antwerp by winning four medals. These included gold in the individual all-around and floor events silver in the vault and bronze on the balance beam.
Despite her incredible achievements one of Biles' coaches made a surprising comment that left the young star puzzled. This moment marked the beginning of Biles' rise to fame and solidified her status as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time.
30 “Too fat”

In 2013 during a competition Biles didn't perform as well as she had hoped and felt disappointed. As she left the floor she overheard one of her coaches making a hurtful comment about her weight saying she crashed because she was "too fat." This incident deeply affected Biles highlighting the importance of body image issues that many teenagers face.
It was a low point for the talented gymnast as she struggled with the negative impact of the coach's words on her self-esteem.
31 Shattered self-esteem

Simone had always felt confident in her body so it came as a shock when one of her coaches called her overweight. The words cut deep and shattered her self-esteem especially when it was suggested that her weight was affecting her performance. The impact was so severe that Simone had to excuse herself from the floor to hide her tears.
In a vulnerable moment on The Today Show Biles shared "I dismissed myself from the floor so nobody could see me and I walked to the back behind the curtains and I was crying." But how did she manage to overcome such a difficult experience at such a young age?
32 Light at the end of the tunnel

There were a few individuals who tried to bring Biles down into a dark place but none of them succeeded in keeping her there for long. Throughout this challenging time there was a beacon of light at the end of the tunnel in the form of Marta Karolyi the head team coordinator. Biles credits Karolyi with pulling her back onto the floor and giving her a much-needed pep talk.
Speaking to Today Biles shared “Her words lifted me up and gave me the strength to keep going. It was a relief to hear her support as I was afraid she would be disappointed in me.” Karolyi's encouragement played a crucial role in helping Biles overcome her struggles and continue on her path to success.
33 Staying positive, pushing herself

Martha's words of encouragement served as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying positive and pushing through challenges. Despite facing negativity and discouragement Simone Biles quickly bounced back from the body shaming incident and returned to the gym with renewed determination. She took the head team coordinator's advice to heart and trained even harder showing resilience in the face of adversity.
Although the incident still stirs up difficult emotions for Biles she chooses to focus on the positive aspects of the experience. She believes that it ultimately made her stronger and more confident teaching her to rise above negativity and embrace self-love. In an interview with People Biles reflected on how the ordeal has shaped her perspective emphasizing the importance of loving and accepting her body unconditionally.
34 The 4’8 gymnast who took the world by storm

Following that pivotal moment Simone's determination only grew stronger. Despite facing various challenges such as injuries rehabilitation and rigorous training regimens in the years that followed she never wavered. Through deep introspection she came to the profound realization that she was exactly where she was destined to be.
Over the course of the next six years this formidable and spirited gymnast standing at a diminutive 4'8" devoted herself tirelessly to her craft never losing sight of her ambitions and aspirations. Whether she was soaring and twirling on the vaults and beams or gracefully executing flips and routines on the mat Biles amassed an impressive collection of championship titles medals and world records. Yet her impact transcended mere statistics and accolades leaving an indelible mark on the annals of gymnastics history.
35 The secret to her success

Earlier we discussed Simon's key to success which she shared with the American Academy of Achievement. She emphasized the significance of writing down your goals to ensure success. According to Simon setting clear goals is essential because it allows you to break down your big ambitions into manageable steps. By defining concrete targets and mapping out the necessary steps you can track your progress and stay focused on achieving your ultimate objectives.
Simon firmly believes in the power of writing down goals on paper as a way to stay organized and committed to your aspirations. By setting specific goals and making the necessary sacrifices along the way you can stay on track and work towards achieving your dreams. But amidst all the goal-setting and sacrifices one may wonder if Simon's true aim was simply to reach success or if there was a deeper motivation driving her determination.
36 Hardwork and dedication

The simple practice of setting goals and having a strong support system played a crucial role in shaping Simone Biles into the iconic Olympic champion she is today. With the guidance of her parents and coaches she was able to clearly define her goals and work towards achieving them both physically and mentally. This strategic approach allowed her to understand her limits and strengths paving the way for her success on the Olympic stage.
What sets Simone Biles apart is not just her goal-setting abilities but her unique personality and unwavering confidence in herself. Despite her incredible achievements she remains humble and sees herself as just a regular person. However her passion for sports and infectious personality have made her a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide. Whether it's her competitive spirit on the mat or her warm smile off it Simone Biles has undoubtedly become one of the most inspiring female athletes of our time.
37 Not a “Normal Kid”

As a child Simone Biles experienced a fairly typical upbringing but as she entered her preteens and teenage years her path diverged from the norm. Instead of following the typical trajectory of a "normal kid" Biles made the decision to focus on becoming a professional athlete making sacrifices along the way.
Reflecting on her journey Biles expressed gratitude for the opportunities she has had. Despite the challenges she faced she is thankful for the chance to live out her childhood dreams. She recognizes that her early focus on setting goals has played a significant role in her success and she takes pride in her accomplishments. Overall Biles views her unconventional path as a source of pride and fulfillment.
38 Dreams do come true

After competing in the Rio 2016 Olympics Simone Biles expressed her satisfaction with her performance stating "My first Olympics and I’ve walked away with five medals: that’s not disappointing at all. It shows dreams can come true.
I’m not the next Usain Bolt or Michael Phelps: I’m the first Simone Biles." Her success at the Olympics not only solidified her status as a top gymnast but also served as an inspiration to many aspiring athletes. Biles' remarkable skills and innovative routines set her apart from her competitors earning her not only medals but also recognition for her groundbreaking contributions to the sport of gymnastics.
39 The Biles II

Simone Biles has solidified her reputation as a trailblazing athlete in the world of gymnastics. With a fearless attitude and exceptional talent she has earned the title of a game-changer in the sport. Her remarkable performances in recent years have not only proven her fearlessness but also led to the creation of not one but two signature moves bearing her name.
The first move known as the "Biles" is a double-double dismount involving a double-twisting double backflip in mid-air. This move showcases Biles' incredible skill and precision. However she didn't stop there. Biles went on to push the boundaries even further with her more ambitious creation the "Biles II". This move is a triple-double featuring a double backflip with an impressive three twists in the air. The level of difficulty and execution required for this move is beyond impressive and truly demonstrates Biles' unparalleled talent and innovation in the world of gymnastics.
40 Sharing her experiences

Simone Biles never imagined she would become such a prominent figure in the world of gymnastics but now she knows that the mat is where she truly belongs. However her life extends far beyond the confines of the gymnasium floor. Biles has opened up about her time as a foster child and the feelings of insignificance that plagued her during those difficult years.
Despite the challenges she faced she has come full circle and now has a deep appreciation for the things that make her feel loved valued and supported. Biles has found a sense of importance and belonging that she once thought was out of reach.
41 Simone’s Story: Courage to Soar

Simone Biles has faced numerous challenges both on and off the gymnastics mat but she has emerged stronger and more determined than ever. Her personal experiences have inspired her to share positivity and hope with others. In addition to her incredible gymnastics achievements and Olympic medals Simone has also written and published her own autobiography Courage to Soar.
Through this book she hopes to motivate and uplift others to pursue their dreams just as she has. But Simone's impact doesn't stop there. She is dedicated to giving back to her community and using her platform to make a difference in the lives of others. Simone's story is a true testament to the power of perseverance and resilience and she continues to inspire people around the world with her story of courage and determination.
42 Gratitude

Simone Biles has found a sense of gratitude and fulfillment in her life particularly through her family. She emphasizes the importance of finding a family that makes her feel valued and loved. Additionally discovering her passion for gymnastics has given her a sense of purpose and significance.
Biles expressed her gratitude for representing her country and being a part of an incredible Olympic team. She also recognizes the importance of being a role model for others who are striving to achieve their dreams. As a result she has dedicated herself to supporting a meaningful social cause.
43 Joining force: Making a difference

Simone Biles has not only excelled in gymnastics but has also made it her mission to help other foster children. Despite being a young toddler when she was in foster care the experience has stayed with her and drives her to give back. Reflecting on her own childhood Biles shared with People "I came from a foster home and went on to achieve everything I’ve achieved."
She vividly remembers the struggles of other children who arrived at the foster home with nothing but the clothes on their back and a backpack. In response to this Biles has joined forces with the Mattress Firm Foster Kids program to support foster families by providing essential items like clothing and school supplies. Through this partnership she hopes to make a difference in the lives of children facing similar challenges that she once experienced.
44 Sky's the limit

Simone Biles has firsthand experience of facing adversity coming from a background where she had very little and her family was torn apart. Despite these challenges she has emerged as a shining example of perseverance and success. In a recent interview she shared her hope that her story could serve as inspiration for other foster children encouraging them to never give up on their dreams.
Biles emphasized the importance of staying active in sports and prioritizing restful sleep for overall well-being. Above all she wants young individuals in similar situations to realize that there are endless possibilities awaiting them and that the sky's the limit when it comes to achieving their goals.
45 #nocompetition

In February 2020 Simone Biles a renowned gymnast who has faced criticism about her appearance in the past teamed up with SK-II to launch the #nocompetition campaign. This global initiative aims to empower women to embrace their own unique definitions of beauty. Taking to Instagram Biles expressed her frustration with the societal pressure to conform to narrow beauty standards which often overshadow actual performance in various fields including gymnastics.
She boldly declared her refusal to participate in any competition based on looks and called out the harmful culture of online trolling that arises when individuals fail to meet unrealistic expectations. Biles's message resonated with many who have also felt the weight of societal beauty norms and the damaging effects of online criticism. By taking a stand against these toxic standards she is not only advocating for her own self-acceptance but also encouraging others to embrace their individual beauty without fear of judgment or comparison. Beauty she asserts should be defined by each individual not dictated by external standards.
46 Covid-19: When the world came to a halt

In 2020 people from all corners of the globe faced unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The sporting world was no exception as athletes coaches and fans had to adapt to a new reality. One of the major impacts of the pandemic was the postponement of the highly anticipated 2020 Olympics which were originally scheduled to take place that summer. This decision not only affected the athletes who had been training rigorously for the event but also the fans who were eagerly looking forward to watching their favorite sports.
The announcement of the postponement meant that everyone involved would have to wait another year for the Olympics to take place. This unexpected turn of events left many wondering how the tournament would unfold and what changes would be made to accommodate the new circumstances. The world had to adjust to a new normal and the sporting world was no exception. Despite the challenges and uncertainties there was still hope and excitement for the Olympics to eventually take place even if it meant a different experience than originally anticipated.
47 Testifying in the Larry Nassar’s Case

In September 2021 Simone Biles the renowned gymnast made waves in the news for a different reason than her incredible athletic abilities. Alongside her fellow gymnasts McKayla Maroney Aly Raisman and Maggie Nichols Biles bravely testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee regarding the mishandling of the Larry Nassar case by the FBI.
Larry Nassar a former USA Gymnastics team doctor was accused of assaulting over 265 young women and girls including Olympic athletes and members of the United States women's national gymnastics team. In 2017 Nassar pleaded guilty to abusing 10 of the victims who came forward. He is now serving a prison sentence of up to 175 years for his horrific crimes as reported by NBC News. The testimonies of these courageous gymnasts shed light on the need for accountability and justice in cases of sexual abuse sparking important conversations and calls for reform within the sports community and beyond.
48 Soaring through the injustice

In her emotional testimony Simone Biles pointed fingers at "the entire system" for enabling Larry Nassar's crimes. She expressed her disappointment in USA Gymnastics and the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee for failing to protect athletes.
Biles emphasized the importance of preventing future abuse stating "I don't want another young gymnast or Olympic athlete or any individual to experience the horror that I and hundreds of others have endured before during and continuing to this day in the wake of the Larry Nassar abuse." Her words were filled with emotion as she fought back tears while speaking out against the injustices that have plagued the gymnastics community.