How Simone Biles Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

A detailed timeline of the impact and legacy of Simone Biles across different fields.

Simone Biles is an American artistic gymnast, considered one of the greatest of all time. With 11 Olympic medals and 30 World Championship medals, she is the most decorated gymnast in history. She holds the record for the most Olympic medals earned by a U.S. gymnast. The International Sports Press Association recognized her as the third-best female athlete of the past 100 years.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

2013: U.S. Classic Poor Performance

In July 2013, Simone Biles competed at the U.S. Classic, performing poorly with several falls and twisting her ankle on the floor exercise. Subsequently, she consulted a sports psychologist, crediting this with helping her anxiety and confidence issues and enabling her future dominance.

September 2016: Disclosure of ADHD and Medication Use

In September 2016, after a hack into the World Anti-Doping Agency, Simone Biles disclosed on Twitter that she has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and was permitted to take medication for it, having received a therapeutic use exemption. She was applauded for her openness.

December 2016: Sponsor of the US Navy aircraft carrier USS Enterprise

In December 2016, Simone Biles was chosen as one of the sponsors of the US Navy aircraft carrier USS Enterprise.

2016: Co-authored autobiography

After the 2016 Rio Games, Simone Biles co-wrote an autobiography with journalist Michelle Burford. The book, titled Courage to Soar: A Body in Motion, A Life in Balance, conveyed the message to readers to pursue their dreams and was meant to pass on the inspiration she has received from others.

Courage to Soar: A Body in Motion, A Life in Balance

Check it on Amazon

January 8, 2017: Courage to Soar tops NYT best sellers list

On January 8, 2017, Simone Biles's book, Courage to Soar: A Body in Motion, A Life in Balance, reached number one on The New York Times best sellers Young Adult list.

Courage to Soar: A Body in Motion, A Life in Balance

Check it on Amazon

September 2021: Time 100

In September 2021, Simone Biles appeared on the Time 100, an annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world, for "championing mental health".

July 7, 2022: Presidential Medal of Freedom

On July 7, 2022, Simone Biles was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden, the nation's highest honor given to civilians. She was among a group of 17 honorees and the youngest person to receive this award.