Simone Biles, the three-time Paris Olympic gold medalist, has entered 2025 with another feather in her cap. Named Sports Illustrated’s Sports Person of the Year, Biles has solidified her status as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
But during her acceptance speech, the decorated gymnast shared a surprising and candid confession about her feelings toward fame and public attention.
“It might be a surprise to a lot of you guys to hear this, but I really don’t like being in the limelight, the center of the room. But it tends to happen to me a lot,” Biles admitted.
Despite years of standing in the global spotlight, Biles revealed that public speaking still makes her nervous.
Rather than enjoying the attention that comes with her achievements, Biles prefers letting her performances speak for her. “I’m really uncomfortable with public speaking, so trust me when I tell you I’d rather be competing on a 4-inch beam in front of you guys,” she said with a smile.
Nonetheless, she delivered a flawless speech, drawing strength from her Rio 2016 teammate Ally Raisman, who joined her on stage.
Humble Beginnings to Legendary Achievements
Biles’ speech offered a glimpse into her journey from modest beginnings to becoming a household name in gymnastics. Reflecting on her childhood aspirations, she said, “When I was six, I never imagined winning medals. I just wanted to have fun and hopefully get a college scholarship.”
Fast forward to 2024, Biles made history by becoming the first gymnast to win two non-consecutive all-around Olympic titles and the first woman since 1968 to claim two Olympic all-around golds.
Her iconic GOAT necklace-symbolizing her status as the greatest of all time-was a highlight of the ceremony. “It is crazy that I am in the conversation of greatest of all athletes,” she admitted.
Biles also credited her success to the unwavering support of her loved ones, particularly her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens. Owens has been a steady presence, standing by her through the highs and lows, including her difficult Tokyo Olympics experience.
Jonathan Owens’ Heartfelt Tribute
At the ceremony, Owens expressed his admiration for his wife with a heartfelt video message.
“Hey baby, I just want to congratulate you on winning your Sports Person of the Year award. I’m so happy and so proud of you,” he said.
“The determination and all the hard work that you did to get yourself back into this position, to go out there and do what you love again, babe. I love you so much.”
As Simone Biles embarks on 2025, the world eagerly watches what new milestones she will achieve, proving time and again that resilience and determination define her legacy.
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