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, renowned as one of the greatest of all time. With a combined total of 41 Olympic and World Championship medals, she holds the record for the most decorated gymnast in history. At the Olympics, she is tied for the second-most decorated female gymnast. Her skills and achievements have solidified her status as a sporting icon.

Sections (6)

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

2013: U.S. Classic and Sports Psychologist Consultation

In July 2013, Simone Biles competed at the U.S. Classic, performing poorly and twisting her ankle. Subsequently, she consulted a sports psychologist, crediting them with helping her anxiety and confidence issues.

September 2016: Disclosure of ADHD and medication use

In September 2016, following 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. This disclosure was met with widespread support and applause.

September 2021: Appearance on 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, the nation's highest honor given to civilians, by President Joe Biden in a ceremony at the White House. She was among a group of 17 honorees, which included Megan Rapinoe. She is the youngest person to receive this award.

2023: Hillary Heron Performs Biles I on Floor

Until Hillary Heron of Panama performed the Biles I on floor at the 2023 World Championships, Simone Biles was the sole gymnast to have performed any of her named skills in an FIG international competition.

August 2024: Third Best Female Athlete of the Past 100 Years

In August 2024, the International Sports Press Association voted Simone Biles as the third best female athlete of the past 100 years after Serena Williams and Nadia Comăneci.

2024: Biles carries Olympic flag

At the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, Simone Biles was part of the ceremonial passing of the Olympic flag, signifying the end of the games and the transition into the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.