Simone Biles is one of the most iconic and dominant athletes in the world of gymnastics. With her incredible talent, hard work, and unwavering determination, she has shattered records, defied expectations, and inspired millions around the globe.
Biles has 30 combined world championships and Olympic medals to her name, making her one of the most accomplished gymnasts in U.S. history. She has four Olympic gold medals and an Olympic bronze medal. The rest were won in other championships, both local and international.
She could become the most decorated American gymnast in Olympic history if she ties or breaks the record for most Olympic medals won by a U.S. gymnast, as well as the record for the most gold medals won by a U.S. gymnast.
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Despite her success on the field, the financial reward has not been massive compared to her off-field success. According to Forbes, she made less than $100,000 directly from gymnastics in 2023, but away from the sport, she took home $7 million from endorsements, according to Forbes estimates.
Her off-field earnings come from brand endorsements. Some of the companies that have sought her appeal include Hershey’s, Nike, and Kellogg’s.
Biles started her career in gymnastics when she was only eight. By 14, she had finished third in the American Classic in Houston. In 2012, she competed in the American Classic in Huntsville and placed first. That same year, she was named to the US Junior National Team.
She made her senior debut at the American Cup before competing at the City of Jesolo Trophy and helping the United States team win a gold medal. At the 2013 Artistic Gymnastics Championships, she placed first after a disastrous showing at the 2013 US Classic.
In 2015, she was first at the AT&T American Cup in Arlington, Texas. She represented the United States at the 2014 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Glasgow, Scotland, and won the competition three consecutive times.
Biles also represented the United States in the Summer Olympics in Brazil and won her first Olympic medal. She followed it up with a gold medal in the individual all-around category. Also, she won bronze in the balance beam final and gold in the women’s floor exercise final.
But Biles’ success has not come without its challenges. She has spoken candidly about her mental health struggles and the pressure she has faced as a high-profile athlete. In 2018, she revealed that she had been a victim of sexual abuse by former USA gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar and has since become a vocal advocate for victims’ rights and safety in sports.
Despite these obstacles, Biles continues to be a shining example of strength, resilience, and grace. She has been a trailblazer for diversity and inclusion in the sport of gymnastics and has inspired countless young girls and women to pursue their dreams, no matter the odds.
Biles is not just a gymnast, she is a symbol of excellence, perseverance, and hope. Her record-breaking achievements at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships are a testament to her talent and dedication, and to the power of hard work and determination. She has proven that anything is possible with passion, drive, and a little bit of grit.
