Simone Biles lit up Madrid on Monday night, reminding the world why she’s in a league of her own.
The 28-year-old gymnast scooped the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year award for a record-equalling fourth time, matching the legendary Serena Williams in the process. After a dazzling performance at the Paris Olympics that saw her earn three gold medals and a silver, Biles returned to the spotlight with grace, power and her trademark humility.
It was a well-deserved honor, and he accepted it in style with a stunning black dress that caught the eyes of her followers.
“It feels incredible,” Biles said during the ceremony. “I won this award for the first time in 2017 and Laureus has been a part of my story since then. I am proud to have added to my collection.” Her night in Madrid wasn’t just about trophies, she also soaked in Real Madrid’s 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao at the Bernabéu the evening before. Safe to say, the Spanish capital treated her well.
Biles’ Legacy Still In Motion
Biles’ fourth win places her alongside Serena Williams in Laureus history, a nod to the enduring influence of two American powerhouses in women’s sport. The gymnast previously claimed this honor in 2017, 2019 and 2020. Last year, she also walked away with the Comeback of the Year award following her remarkable return to competition after a two-year break.
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But even as accolades pile up, Biles remains grounded. According to the Washington Post, she opened up about what the future might hold. “Whether on the apparatus or in the stands, I still don’t know that,” she said, when asked about a potential appearance at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. “My body is aging. I felt it in Paris.”
Her honesty about the physical toll of elite gymnastics was clear. “I went back to the village, I took the elevator and my body literally collapsed. I was sick for 10 days,” she said. Even sprinting with friends left her sore for days.
Still, she’s not walking away just yet. While she supports her husband, NFL safety Jonathan Owens, and enjoys life off the mat, Biles keeps the door slightly open. “For me to come back, it would really have to excite me.”
She also praised Brazilian rival Rebeca Andrade for pushing her limits and acknowledged the rising wave of young gymnasts ready to take over. “It only needs one of us, no? Everything will start again.”
Whether she competes or not, Simone Biles continues to shape the conversation in and beyond gymnastics, using her voice for mental health advocacy and showing the world what strength looks like.
Also Read: Simone Biles Exposes Trolls For Disgusting Text Messages About Sexual Assault & Her NFL Husband
