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Explore the inspiring biography of Simone Biles — from her early life in foster care to becoming the greatest gymnast of all time. Discover her Olympic journey, achievements, personal life, and legacy.
Simone Biles Biography: From Foster Care to World Champion
Simone Biles is widely recognized as the greatest gymnast of all time. With an unmatched combination of power, skill, and grace, she has transformed gymnastics and inspired millions around the world.
Early Life and Background
- Full Name: Simone Arianne Biles
- Date of Birth: March 14, 1997
- Birthplace: Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Nationality: American
- Height: 4 ft 8 in (1.42 m)
Simone’s early life wasn’t easy. Born into a family struggling with addiction, she spent time in foster care before being adopted by her grandparents, who raised her in Texas. It was there that her passion for gymnastics was born after a daycare field trip to a local gym.
Education and Gymnastics Beginnings
- Began training at age 6
- Homeschooled from high school onward to accommodate her rigorous training schedule
- Trained at World Champions Centre, owned by her family
- Committed to UCLA but later went pro
Gymnastics Career and Major Achievements
Olympic Games
- 2016 Rio Olympics:
- 4 Gold Medals (Team, All-Around, Vault, Floor)
- 1 Bronze Medal (Balance Beam)
- 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021):
- Withdrew from several events citing mental health
- Won 1 Silver Medal (Team) and 1 Bronze Medal (Beam)
World Championships
- 25 World Championship Medals, including 19 Golds
- Most decorated gymnast in World Championship history
Signature Moves
- Multiple skills named after her:
- Biles (Floor)
- Biles II (Vault)
- Biles III (Balance Beam)
Simone Biles Career Stats (As of 2025)
- Total Olympic Medals: 7
- World Championship Medals: 25
- All-around Titles: 6-time U.S. National Champion
- Years Active: 2013 – present (with a break post-Tokyo)
Simone Biles and Mental Health Advocacy
Simone made global headlines in 2021 when she withdrew from multiple events at the Tokyo Olympics to prioritize her mental health. Her brave decision opened international conversations around the mental well-being of athletes and made her a role model off the mat as well.
Personal Life & Net Worth
- Engaged (now married) to NFL player Jonathan Owens
- Estimated Net Worth (2025): $20–25 million
- Endorsements: Nike, Visa, United Airlines, SK-II, Athleta, and more
- Launched her own gymnastics tour: “Gold Over America”
Legacy and Impact
Simone Biles has not only changed how gymnastics is performed but also how it’s perceived. She:
- Advocates for survivors of abuse, being one herself
- Uses her platform to speak on racial justice and athlete rights
- Continues to inspire future generations of gymnasts globally
Future Outlook
Simone Biles is expected to continue:
- Competing at the highest level
- Advocating for mental health and abuse prevention
- Growing her brand through business ventures and endorsements
- Serving as a mentor and leader for the next generation of athletes
Most Searched Questions About Simone Biles
How many medals does Simone Biles have?
Answer: As of 2025, she has 7 Olympic medals and 25 World Championship medals, making her the most decorated gymnast ever.
Why did Simone Biles withdraw from the Tokyo Olympics?
Answer: She withdrew to prioritize her mental health, citing a condition called the “twisties,” which affects spatial awareness during routines.
Is Simone Biles still competing?
Answer: Yes, she returned to competition in 2023 and is expected to compete through the 2024 Paris Olympics and beyond.
What is Simone Biles’ signature move?
Answer: The “Biles” on floor and vault — highly difficult moves named after her because she was the first to perform them in competition.
Who is Simone Biles married to?
Answer: She married Jonathan Owens, an NFL safety, in 2023.
Conclusion
The biography of Simone Biles is a story of resilience, dominance, and courage. From humble beginnings to global superstardom, Biles has redefined greatness in gymnastics while championing causes bigger than sport. Her legacy is not just in medals, but in changing lives and shaping conversations that matter.
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