Simone Biles Tops ‘Titan’ Category in Times Most Influential 100 List

After her historic Tokyo Olympics 2020, Simone Biles is the most decorated American gymnast of all time. Biles clinched her record-breaking seventh Olympic victory at Tokyo. The 24-year-old now has seven Olympic medals, more than any American gymnast in history.

Post Tokyo, Simone has become an inspiration for athletes around the world. As she took the bold step of withdrawing from the final event in Tokyo to safeguard her mental health. Adding to her achievements, Simone has now topped the ‘Titan’ category in Times World’s Most Influential People list.

Simone gets the recognition she deserves

On the court and off the court, Simone has been setting a great example for the whole sports community. While she has spectacular moves when she is on the mat; off-court, Simone is respected and idolized for being her unapologetic self.

At Tokyo Olympics 2020, she backed out from the finals of the team event. Simone was aware if she had continued, she could have got hurt and she took the firm step for herself. Not only athletes, but even celebrities like Justin Bieber related to the mental pressure she must have felt.

Tennis legend, Serena Williams who herself is an inspiration for athletes around the world, wrote an essay about Biles in the magazine. Williams wrote, “There’s something poetic about the way Simone Biles moves. She’s a master of precision, grace and dominance, and at the age of just 24, she has cemented herself as one of the most decorated American gymnasts of all time. “

Serena Williams praises Simone Biles

The legendary tennis player, Serena, has been a powerful example for women athletes. Williams has been through hurdles in her own life to reach where she is now.

She also mentioned in her essay on Biles, that she wishes she had Biles to look up to. “I wish I had her to look up to when I was younger and trying to realize my dreams,” she said. 

Serena further praised Simone for her strength and contribution towards spreading awareness about mental health.

“By living her truth so loudly and by championing mental health, she is setting new standards of beauty, strength and resilience, breaking down today’s image-obsessed stereotypes and encouraging others to do the same. Simone is a shining example of what success looks like when you let go of what the world thinks and gather your strength from yourself … from your soul.”

Also read: “Wish I Had Her to Look Up To”: Serena Williams Salutes Simone Biles’ Recent Accomplishment