Enough of the Criticism as Simone Biles’ Ignored Words Are Highlighted Amidst Gymnastics Return

“Making the impossible possible. thanks for making my denim dreams come true @thecoveted___.” At first glance, the words feel like something you’d read in a fashion influencer’s post—effortless, grateful, stylish. But if you pause, you might realize these words are from Simone Biles. Yes, that Simone. The most decorated gymnast in history. And yet, she isn’t on a balance beam or flying off the vault in this moment. She’s clutching a quilted black denim handbag with bold gold hardware, styled in golden mesh heels and rings. She’s not defying gravity in a leotard right now, she’s embracing something else: her present.

Since the Paris Olympics, the 28-year-old hasn’t entered a single gymnastics contest. Instead, she’s been seen where icons go to be celebrated—on the red carpet of the MET Gala, in elegant heels at the Kentucky Derby, glowing onstage at the Laureus Sports Awards, and even speaking in Davos. And always by her side is her husband, Jonathan Owens. Together, the power couple has journeyed through South Africa’s wild beauty and wandered the serene streets of Switzerland. Yet through all these scenes, one thing is noticeably missing: gymnastics. 

Simone isn’t stepping away; she’s stepping into something bigger—something slower, perhaps, but no less powerful. Her recent Instagram story wasn’t just about fashion. It was about joy. About being exactly where she wants to be, in the now. And if you need confirmation of that mindset, just look to May 21, when Inside Gymnastics shared a clip of Simone addressing graduates at the University of Washington. Standing before a sea of caps and dreams, she said, “In today’s dynamic world, things move quickly and there tends to be this urgency for what’s next rather than living in the moment.”

Coming from Simone, that isn’t just advice—it’s testimony. She has already done the impossible in sport. Now, she’s mastering something even harder: the art of stillness, of savoring life outside the spotlight of competition. However, the Olympian has been criticized by the hardliners or trolls for her steps again and again. They have ridiculed her for her decisions in gymnastics and personal life. And yet, Simone isn’t dodging questions about the future. In fact, she’s embracing them—just on her own terms.

When E! News caught up with Simone and Jonathan Owens, they asked that classic question: couple goals? Simone didn’t hesitate. She beamed. “Building a family.” The reporter nudged them about baby plans. And once again, she didn’t flinch. “Absolutely one day. I have always wanted to be a mother and have kids,” she said, glancing toward Owens. “And just like him, he has always wanted to be a dad.” So while the world waits, wondering when Simone will chalk up again, she’s already scripting life in her own way.

What’s certain is that Simone Biles isn’t rushing. She’s not racing toward a comeback or caught up in proving anything. She’s already won more medals than anyone else in gymnastics history. But has she given any update on her possible return?

Simone Biles keeps it 50/50

There was a time when Simone Biles’ name was synonymous with domination—gravity-defying routines, flawless landings, and gold after gold. But now, she’s making headlines for something else entirely: choosing herself.

In a recent interview with L’Équipe, the world’s most decorated gymnast peeled back the curtain on her current chapter. And spoiler: it’s not about medals. “I’m trying to enjoy life, travel, spend time with my husband, and really live as a woman,” Biles said with refreshing clarity. And as for a return? She’s not closing the door, but she’s not ready to step through it either.

“To return, it would have to be something that genuinely excites me,” the 28-year-old admitted. “The Games are still so far away. My body is changing, and I felt it in Paris.” Well, it’s a rare kind of honesty in a sport that often demands unwavering commitment, even at the cost of self. Simone Biles is no longer chasing gold just because the world expects her to. If she returns, it will be on her own terms—with fire in her heart, not just expectation on her shoulders. And she does plan to be at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles—but whether that’s in a leotard or in the stands? That’s a decision for tomorrow. For now, she’s present. In love. In motion. And fully in control.

The post Enough of the Criticism as Simone Biles’ Ignored Words Are Highlighted Amidst Gymnastics Return appeared first on EssentiallySports.