Simone Biles has long been called the G.O.A.T — greatest of all time. But how did she come to claim this coveted title?
Biles quickly rose to stardom with her stunning performances at the Rio 2016 Olympics. But Biles’ journey in competitive gymnastics began long before Rio. She started gymnastics when she was 6 years old, and won her first of six world all-around titles in 2013 — when she was only 16 years old.
Since then, Biles has won a record 23 world championship medals. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Biles upped her Olympic medal total to 11 — more than any other women in U.S. gymnastics. With five gymnastics moves named for her, Biles has flipped, tucked and vaulted her way to the top.
See photos from some of Biles’ most iconic moments below.
Biles and teammates Jade Carey, Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles and Hezly Rivera celebrate winning gold in the women’s team final at the Paris 2024 Olympics. (Photo by Anne-Christine Poujoulat/AFP via Getty Images)
Biles performs on beam during the women’s team final at the Paris 2024 Olympics. (Photo by Gabriel Bouys/AFP via Getty Images)