Jason S. Anderson Why Simone Biles is Important
Simone Biles is considered one of the greatest gymnasts ever. She’s famous for performing gymnastics moves that others can’t match, winning many world championships and Olympic medals, and setting records at U.S. championships. She’s a role model both in the sport and beyond.
Her Achievements and Records
Biles excels in all gymnastics events. She won her first world championship title at 16 and has since collected 19 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze medals at world championships.
She also holds a record with seven all-around wins at the U.S. national championships. Although the uneven bars are her weakest event, she’s still a top competitor. The Tokyo Olympics were meant to be a highlight of her career.
Unique Moves
Simone Biles has moves named after her because she’s the first to perform them in competitions. Her “Triple-Double” on the floor is especially difficult, involving a double somersault with three twists.
This move even led to the creation of a new difficulty level in gymnastics scoring. She has also performed groundbreaking elements on the vault and balance beam.
Biles was the first woman to perform a Yurchenko double pike, a very difficult vault move, although it hasn’t been officially named after her yet.
Character and Advocacy
Biles loves the floor exercise because it allows her to show her personality. Off the mat, she speaks out for social justice and has openly shared her experience as a survivor of sexual abuse by former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar. She criticized those who failed to protect her and other victims.
Overcoming Adversity
Simone had a tough childhood. Her birth mother struggled with addiction, so Simone was adopted by her grandparents.
She discovered gymnastics at age six and quickly rose to the top, winning her first world championship at 16 and four gold medals at the Rio 2016 Olympics.
Inspiring Others
Now, Biles uses her platform to inspire young people, especially girls. She studies business administration online and supports foster children’s education.
Recently, she partnered with Athleta, a women’s sportswear brand, to create products for young female athletes and support programs that help girls and women through sports.
Mental Health and the Tokyo Olympics
At the Tokyo Olympics, Biles stepped back from some events due to mental health struggles. She talked openly about feeling nervous and not enjoying gymnastics as much.
She emphasized the importance of mental health, even at big competitions. After taking a break, she returned to win a bronze medal on the balance beam.
Lessons from Simone Biles
Simone Biles teaches that success is not just about winning medals but also about maintaining physical and mental health, dignity, and resilience.
