1. How was Simone Biles´s childhood? Did her parents influence on her career? How was her mother? How was her father?
Simone Biles had a challenging childhood marked by family instability. She was born on March 14, 1997, in Columbus, Ohio. Her biological parents struggled with drug and alcohol addiction, which prevented them from taking care of her and her siblings. As a result, they were placed in the foster care system when Simone was just three years old. Her biological mother, Shanon Biles, faced serious difficulties raising her children, while her father was absent.
Fortunately, her maternal grandfather, Ronald Biles, and his wife, Nellie, adopted her when she was six years old. They provided the stability and support she needed to nurture her gymnastics talent. Although her biological parents did not have a positive influence on her career, her adoptive grandparents played a crucial role in her success. They encouraged her from the very beginning, ensuring she had the resources and opportunities to train and develop as an athlete.
From an early age, Biles showed a natural interest in gymnastics. Her adoptive family enrolled her in gymnastics classes when she was six, and she quickly stood out. Her exceptional talent was evident from the start, leading her coaches to suggest a more intensive training program. Over time, her dedication, combined with her family’s unwavering support, helped her reach the highest level of competition, ultimately making her one of the greatest gymnasts of all time. Her journey serves as a powerful example of how the right environment and encouragement can shape a person’s future.
Additionally, the difficulties she faced during childhood instilled in her resilience and determination. The early instability she experienced not only affected her personal life but also motivated her to push herself even harder in training. Her story has become an inspiration to many who have faced similar struggles, proving that perseverance and effort can overcome even the most challenging obstacles.
Her life also highlights the crucial role of a supportive environment in an athlete’s development. Without the encouragement and stability provided by her adoptive family, her career path might have been entirely different. Ronald and Nellie Biles not only gave her a loving home but also instilled in her the confidence to pursue her dreams, demonstrating the transformative power of love and support.
2. How can you consider Simone Biles? Is she a secure woman or a woman in a constant change?
Simone Biles is a woman who seamlessly balances confidence with continuous evolution. On one hand, she has demonstrated an unwavering sense of self-assurance in her athletic career, facing challenges with determination and a deep belief in her abilities. Her dominance in gymnastics is undeniable, and her fearless approach to competition has solidified her status as the most decorated gymnast in history. She has consistently set new standards in the sport, performing routines of unprecedented difficulty with precision and grace.
However, Biles is not only a confident athlete but also a person in constant transformation. Throughout her career, she has undergone significant growth, not just as a gymnast but as an individual. Her decision to step back from multiple events during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics to prioritize her mental health serves as a clear example of her ability to reassess her priorities and make difficult but necessary choices. This moment was not a sign of weakness, but rather of strength—showing that true confidence includes knowing when to set boundaries and protect one’s well-being.
Beyond her personal evolution, she has grown into a powerful leader both inside and outside the world of sports. Early in her career, she was known primarily for her exceptional physical skills and talent, but over time, she has taken on a much larger role in advocating for critical issues such as mental health awareness, athlete safety, and women’s empowerment. By using her platform to speak out on these topics, she has proven that being a great athlete goes beyond winning medals—it also involves making a lasting impact on society. This balance between confidence and adaptability has made her a role model for athletes and non-athletes alike.
Another key aspect of her evolution is her ability to continually develop new skills and face challenges beyond gymnastics. Whether in her personal life or professional endeavors, Biles has shown remarkable resilience and the capacity to reinvent herself. Her willingness to adapt, embrace change, and explore new opportunities makes her a source of inspiration not only for aspiring gymnasts but for anyone navigating transitions in life.
Furthermore, her story illustrates an important lesson: confidence does not mean standing still—it means recognizing growth as an ongoing process. True self-assurance lies in acknowledging one’s limitations, working to overcome them, and never fearing change. Biles has embraced this philosophy, continuously refining her abilities and pushing herself forward, making her an enduring example of perseverance, strength, and determination.
3. What is /are your point(s) of view on the figure of Simone Biles as a sportswoman / feminist/ activist?
Simone Biles is one of the most influential figures in modern sports, not only because of her talent and achievements but also due to the profound impact she has had on society. Her excellence in gymnastics has made her the most decorated gymnast of all time, standing out for her technical ability, innovation, and unmatched skills. She has successfully performed moves that no other gymnast has been able to replicate, making her a true pioneer in the sport. Through discipline and perseverance, she has redefined the standards of gymnastics, raising the level of competition and setting new expectations in every event.
Her success is not only based on her talent but also on her dedication and hard work. She has consistently pushed herself to new limits, incorporating elements of extreme difficulty into her routines and executing them with unmatched precision. Her performances have captivated audiences worldwide, inspiring young gymnasts to strive for excellence. Thanks to her influence, gymnastics has evolved into an even more demanding and dynamic sport, where creativity and innovation are just as important as physical ability.
From a feminist perspective, Biles has become a symbol of female empowerment. In a sport where women are often judged by their physical appearance and performance, she has proven that mental and emotional strength are just as essential. By prioritizing her mental health during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, she challenged the belief that athletes must endure extreme pressure without showing vulnerability. Her bravery sent a powerful message: female athletes have the right to make decisions that protect their well-being, and success should not be measured solely by medals.
As an activist, Biles has used her platform to raise awareness about athlete safety. Being one of the survivors of the abuse scandal involving former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar, she has openly spoken about the mistreatment many gymnasts faced and has demanded reforms in the governing body. Her courage in publicly addressing this issue has inspired many other victims to come forward and has driven significant changes in the protection of young athletes. She has also been an advocate for improving conditions in sports, demanding better safeguards to ensure the well-being of future generations.
Furthermore, her impact on the African American community has been significant. As one of the most successful Black gymnasts in history, she has broken barriers in a sport that has traditionally been dominated by other groups. Her achievements have opened doors for future generations of Black athletes, proving that excellence and leadership can come from any background. She has used her influence to promote diversity and inclusion in gymnastics, ensuring that younger generations have greater opportunities and representation.
In conclusion, Simone Biles is not just an outstanding athlete but also a leader who has changed the way success is perceived in gymnastics. Her advocacy for mental health, her fight for athlete safety, and her efforts in representing women and the African American community make her a role model both in and beyond the world of sports. Her legacy extends far beyond medals, leaving an indelible mark on sports history and society.
4. How did Simone Biles face her depression?
Simone Biles faced her depression with courage, determination, and the support of professionals, family, and friends. The extreme pressure of elite sports became evident during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, when she made the difficult decision to withdraw from several competitions to prioritize her mental health. This choice shocked the world and sparked an important conversation about the significance of psychological well-being in high-performance athletes.
One of the first steps in her journey was acknowledging that she needed help. In multiple interviews, she has emphasized the role of therapy in managing anxiety and the immense pressure that comes with being one of the most accomplished gymnasts in history. Seeking professional guidance allowed her to develop coping mechanisms to handle her emotions and maintain a balance between her personal life and athletic career.
Biles also leaned on her close circle for support. Her family, coaches, and friends played a crucial role in her recovery. Her boyfriend, Jonathan Owens, and her adoptive parents, Ronald and Nellie Biles, provided a safe space where she could express her feelings without fear of judgment. Knowing she was not alone gave her the strength to stand by her decision to prioritize her well-being.
Additionally, she found comfort in activities outside of gymnastics. Mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises became essential tools for calming her mind and reducing anxiety. She also took the necessary time to rest and step away from the pressures of elite competition, which helped her return with a stronger and more balanced mindset.
Another key aspect of her healing process was speaking openly about her experience. By sharing her struggles, Biles brought attention to the importance of mental health in sports. Her bravery encouraged other athletes to prioritize their psychological well-being and helped break the stigma surrounding depression and anxiety in professional sports.
Ultimately, Simone Biles confronted her depression through a combination of therapy, strong social support, self-care, and reflection. She learned to set boundaries and recognize that her well-being is more important than any medal or title. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that mental health is just as vital as physical health and that even the most successful athletes need to take care of themselves.
5. What do you think is the main contribution of Simone Biles to the American society / African American society in USA? (Gold medals /Prizes)
Simone Biles’ greatest contribution to American society and the African American community goes beyond sports, leaving a lasting impact on multiple levels. As an athlete, she has revolutionized gymnastics with her unmatched skills and groundbreaking routines, setting new standards for excellence and inspiring future generations to push their limits. Her influence has reshaped the sport, proving that hard work, discipline, and innovation can break barriers.
Beyond her athletic success, Biles has played a key role in raising awareness about mental health in sports. Her decision to prioritize her well-being during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics challenged traditional perceptions of success, emphasizing that an athlete’s health should come before competition. Her openness on this issue has encouraged others to seek help and has contributed to destigmatizing mental health struggles among professional athletes.
For the African American community, Biles has been a symbol of representation and empowerment. As one of the most successful Black gymnasts in history, she has broken racial barriers in a sport with historically limited diversity. Her achievements have inspired young Black athletes, proving that excellence has no racial limits and reinforcing the importance of inclusion in sports.
Additionally, she has been a strong advocate against abuse in gymnastics. As a survivor of the scandal involving former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar, she has used her voice to demand reforms to protect athletes. Her testimony before the U.S. Senate helped expose systemic failures, leading to significant changes in sports organizations to ensure greater athlete safety.
Biles has also contributed to the empowerment of women in sports, challenging stereotypes and demonstrating that strength is not only physical but also about speaking up and defending one’s rights. She has helped shift the perception of female athletes, reinforcing that their success is measured not only by medals but also by the positive changes they bring to their sport and society.
In conclusion, Simone Biles’ legacy extends far beyond her titles. She has influenced the world through her advocacy for mental health, athlete protection, and diversity in sports. Her story is one of resilience and determination, inspiring people not only in gymnastics but in all areas of life.
Written dissertation
While working on this project, I have realized that Simone Biles is much more than an exceptional gymnast. Before researchingher in depth, I knew her for her athletic achievements and dominance in gymnastics, but now I understand that her impact goes far beyond medals. Her story is a powerful example of perseverance, courage, and leadership, and it has changed the way I view elite sports and the importance of mental health.
One of the things that impressed me the most is her ability to overcome obstacles from an early age. I didn’t know that she grewup in an unstable environment, with a biological mother who couldn’t take care of her, spending part of her childhood in foster care before being adopted by her grandparents.Itis incredible how, despite all ofthese challenges, she managed to become one of the greatest gymnasts in history. This proves that talent, effort, and the right support system cantransform any difficult situation into an opportunity.
I was also surprised by her impact outside of sports. She has not only revolutionized gymnastics with her groundbreaking routines, but she has also used her platform to raise awareness about issues that are often overlooked in the sports world, such as athlete abuse and mental health. Before this project, I wasn’t fully aware of the significance of her decision to withdraw from certain events at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics to protect her mental well-being. It made me reflect on how unfair it can be to expect athletes to sacrifice their health just to meet public expectations. Her bravery in this regard has changed the way many people view mental health,showing that prioritizing it is not a sign of weakness, but rather an act of strength and self-awareness.
Her story has also changed my perception of the pressure that elite athletes face. I have always admired great athletes for their victories and medals, but now I understand that behind every success, there are sacrifices, fears, and moments of doubt. Biles has shown that true success is not only about athletic achievements, but also about recognizing when it is necessary to step back and prioritize personal well-being.
Another aspect that stood out to me is how she has broken barriers in gymnastics. Not only has she redefined the sport with her innovative skills, but she has also paved the way for future generations, especially Black female athletes, in a sport that has traditionally lacked diversity. Her influence has been crucial in helping young gymnasts from different backgrounds feel that they, too, have a place in gymnastics and sports in general.
After completing this project, my view of Simone Biles has completely changed. I now see her as a role model not only in sports but also in the fight for athletes’ rights and mental health awareness. Her story has taught me that success is not just measured by titles and medals, but by the impact one leaves on the world and the people they inspire. More than her athletic records, her true legacy is changing the way mental health is perceived in sports and proving that courage also means knowing when to take care of oneself.
Razón: La profesora de Inglés I, Ruth A. Cotto, del Grado en Periodismo semipresencial solicita a su alumnado un análisis e interpretación de la trayectoria de la gimnasta olímpica Simone Biles.
Temática: Trayectoria de la medallista olímpica Simone Biles.
Alumnos: Esther Carús.
Curso: 2023-2024.
Asignatura: Inglés I.
