10 Things You Don't Know About Simone Biles

Simone Biles is widely recognized as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, capturing the world’s attention with her extraordinary skills and numerous Olympic^® medals. But beyond her stunning routines and remarkable achievements, there are many fascinating aspects of her life and career that remain lesser known. Here are 10 intriguing facts about Simone Biles that might surprise you.

1. Humble Beginnings

Born in 1997 in Columbus, Ohio, Simone Biles and her three siblings were placed in foster care due to their birth mother’s struggle with addiction. Her maternal grandfather, Ron, an Air Force veteran, and his wife Nellie, a retired nurse, adopted Simone and her younger sister Adria when Simone was six, while their great aunt took in the older siblings.

2. Gymnastics Genes

Biles’ younger sister, Adria Biles, is also a skilled gymnast. The two sisters often train together and support each other in their athletic endeavors.

3. Consistent Coach

Biles has been coached by Aimee Boorman since she was 8 years old. Although Aimee had never trained an elite gymnast before, Simone considered this an advantage, believing it allowed for a fresh and unique coaching perspective.

4. ADHD Diagnosis

A month after her historic performance at the Rio Olympics, Biles’ confidential medical records were hacked and leaked from the World Anti-Doping Agency database. Addressing the situation on Twitter, Simone revealed her ADHD diagnosis and confirmed that she takes medication approved by U.S.A. Gymnastics.

5. Repeat World Champion

Biles has demonstrated remarkable consistency and excellence by winning the all-around title at every World Championship she has competed in. This achievement highlights her unparalleled skill and dominance in gymnastics.

6. Signature Moves

Biles has a signature move on every event called “The Biles,” which on the balance beam features a challenging double-twisting double-tuck dismount.

7. Shortest Olympian

Biles, standing at just 4-feet-9-inches tall, was the shortest of all 555 U.S. athletes at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

8. Mental Health Advocate

Biles has faced and openly discussed her mental health challenges, advocating for mental well-being in sports. During the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, she took a break from gymnastics to focus on her mental health, sparking significant conversations about athlete well-being.

9. Barbie^® Doll

In recognition of her remarkable influence and achievements, Biles has been honored with her own Barbie doll. This tribute aims to inspire young girls to believe in themselves and recognize their own potential.

10. History Maker

At the GK U.S. Classic, she made history as the first woman to land the Yurchenko double pike in competition. According to Good Housekeeping, when asked why she pushes to perform such challenging moves, she confidently replied, “Because I can.”

From her groundbreaking moves on the balance beam to her inspiring advocacy for mental health, Simone Biles continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of gymnastics and beyond.

References: 15 Fun Facts That Will Make You Love Simone Biles Even More | 48 Facts About Simone Biles