Simone Biles is not just a name in gymnastics—she is a revolution. Born on March 14, 1997, in Columbus, Ohio, Biles was introduced to a world that would soon witness her meteoric rise from a young girl with boundless energy to the most decorated gymnast in history.

Her journey began in a daycare field trip to a gymnastics facility, where instructors noticed her natural talent and sent a note home suggesting she enroll in classes.

By age 6, she was training seriously, and by 14, she’d already committed to the sport professionally. Little did the world know, this child prodigy would go on to redefine what’s possible in gymnastics, blending unmatched athleticism with a fearless approach to competition.

Biles’ career is a masterclass in breaking barriers. While many athletes are celebrated for incremental progress, Biles shattered ceilings.

Her signature moves—like the “Biles” (a double layout half-out on floor) and the “Biles II” (a triple-double twist on floor)—are so complex that few others dare to attempt them. But her impact goes beyond gravity-defying skills.

She’s openly challenged the sport’s status quo, advocating for athlete mental health, speaking out against systemic abuse in USA Gymnastics, and refusing to conform to outdated expectations of how a gymnast should look or act.

When she withdrew from several events at the Tokyo Olympics to prioritize her well-being, critics questioned her commitment. Biles’ response? “I have to protect my mind and body. I’m not just a gymnast; I’m a human being.”

Numbers don’t lie: Simone Biles has amassed 32 Olympic and World Championship medals, including 25 golds. She’s the first woman to win five World All-Around titles and the first gymnast to perform a double-twisting, double-somersault dismount on beam.

But her legacy isn’t just about trophies. It’s about rewriting the playbook. When Biles debuted her Yurchenko double pike vault at the 2021 U.S. Classic—a move no woman had ever competed before—the gymnastics world held its breath.

The vault, now named after her, is so dangerous that even some male gymnasts avoid it. Yet Biles stuck the landing with her trademark confidence, proving once again that she operates on a different plane of existence.

Beyond the mat, Biles has become a cultural icon. Her unapologetic authenticity—whether calling out hypocrisy, sharing her struggles with anxiety, or celebrating her love for therapy—has resonated with millions.

She’s used her platform to advocate for survivors of abuse, testifying against the FBI’s mishandling of the Larry Nassar case and partnering with organizations to support victims.

Her memoir, Courage to Soar, became a bestseller, offering a raw look at her triumphs and vulnerabilities. Fans don’t just admire her skills; they connect with her humanity. As she once tweeted, “I’d rather be hated for who I am than loved for who I’m not.”

Biles’ influence extends to the next generation of athletes. Young gymnasts now idolize her not just for her medals but for her courage to challenge norms. She’s inspired a wave of athletes to prioritize mental health, speak openly about pressure, and embrace their individuality.

When asked about her legacy, Biles often shrugs off the “G.O.A.T.” label, insisting she’s just “a girl who fell in love with gymnastics.”

But the world knows better. She’s a trailblazer who turned her sport upside down, proving that greatness isn’t just about winning—it’s about daring to be different.

As Simone Biles celebrates another year, her story is far from over. With her eyes set on the 2024 Paris Olympics, fans and critics alike wonder: What’s next? Will she debut another groundbreaking skill? Advocate for even bolder changes in the sport?

Or perhaps focus on her growing role as a mentor and advocate? Whatever she chooses, one thing is certain: Simone Biles has already secured her place in history.

Not just as the greatest gymnast of all time, but as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and the power of staying true to oneself.

In a world obsessed with perfection, Biles reminds us that true strength lies in embracing imperfection. She’s shown that it’s okay to stumble, to speak up, and to redefine success on your own terms.

And that’s why, long after her final routine, Simone Biles will continue to inspire generations to come.