Often hailed as the greatest gymnast of all time, Simone Biles has captivated audiences around the world with her incredible athleticism and inspiring journey. However, there are some lesser-known aspects of her life that add depth to her already remarkable story. Here are some secrets about Simone Biles that fans may not know.

1. Her Adoption Story

Simone Biles was adopted by her grandparents Ron and Nellie Biles as a child. Born to a mother who struggled with substance abuse, Simone and her siblings faced a tumultuous childhood. Ron and Nellie stepped in to provide a stable and loving home, legally adopting Simone and her younger sister Adria in 2003. Simone often credits her grandparents, whom she calls Mom and Dad, for their unwavering support and encouragement.

2. Her Fear of Bees

Despite her bravura performances on the gymnastics floor, Simone Biles has a surprising phobia: bees. During the medal ceremony at the 2014 World Championships, a bee flew into her bouquet, causing a hilarious and memorable scene as she tried to avoid it while standing on the podium.

3. Her Struggles with ADHD

Simone Biles has been open about her diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). She was diagnosed as a child and has been on medication to manage the condition ever since. Biles has used her platform to advocate for mental health awareness, emphasizing that her condition does not define her abilities or limit her success.

4. Her Love for Dogs

Simone Biles is a famous dog lover and owns two French Bulldogs named Lilo and Rambo. She regularly shares photos and stories of her furry companions on social media, highlighting her affectionate relationship with them. Lilo and Rambo often appear in her posts, giving fans a glimpse into her personal life.

5. Her Secret to Handling Pressure

While Simone Biles is known for her calmness under pressure, she has a unique ritual for staying calm before competitions. She listens to music and dances to relieve stress and stay focused. Her favorite pre-competition songs include a mix of pop and hip-hop, which helps her get into the zone and boost her performance.

6. Her Passion for Fashion

Outside of gymnastics, Simone Biles has a deep interest in fashion. She has collaborated with several brands to create her own line of activewear and casual wear. Biles enjoys expressing her individuality through her style choices, both in and out of the gym. Her fashion projects reflect her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.

7. Her Philanthropic Efforts

Simone Biles is deeply committed to giving back to the community. She has been involved in a variety of charitable activities, including working with foster care organizations and advocating for children’s rights. Biles also established the Simone Biles Legacy Foundation to provide financial assistance to fitness enthusiasts and support programs that promote healthy living and positive self-image among young people.

8. Her Favorite Cheat Meal

Even top athletes have their favorite indulgences. For Simone Biles, it’s pepperoni pizza. Despite her rigorous training regimen and healthy diet, she still allows herself the occasional slice of pizza. The balance of discipline and self-care is part of what keeps her grounded and motivated.

9. Her Hidden Talent

In addition to her gymnastics skills, Simone Biles has another hidden talent: she is an excellent cook. She loves to experiment in the kitchen and try new recipes. Cooking is a relaxing and enjoyable activity for her, providing a break from her intense training schedule.

10. Her Dream Vacation Destination

Simone Biles’ dream vacation destination is the Maldives. She has expressed her desire to visit the tropical paradise to relax and enjoy the serene beaches and crystal clear waters. This dream destination reflects her love of relaxation and adventure outside of the competitive arena.

Conclusion

Simone Biles is not only an extraordinary athlete, but also a multifaceted individual with a rich and inspiring personal life. The lesser-known aspects of her story add depth to her public persona, revealing a woman who is strong, resilient, and warm. As she continues to make history and inspire millions, these secrets remind us that even the greatest champions have unique journeys and personal passions that shape who they are.