Jordan Chiles Steps Into Simone Biles’ Shoes As UCLA Star Leaves Career Changing Advice for Fellow Teammates

If you’ve seen Jordan Chiles lately, you know she’s got a whole new vibe—pure Simone Biles vibes! Since coming back to UCLA after that Olympic bronze medal drama, she’s been all smiles, just out here living her best life. Undoubtedly, Chiles is a two-time Olympic medalist. But she’s also a college kid who knows how to have fun. But she had almost lost all of this once. Until someone special came to her rescue.

Well, set to graduate in 2027, she’s making it all look easy. And this is all thanks to the wisdom she picked up from her “big sister,” Simone, who always had her back. Now, Jordan’s the one setting the example, proving that success and joy go hand in hand. Her motto? Enjoy the moment—and she hopes the next generation does too!

The Jordan Chiles-led Bruins made history on March 1 when they secured their first Big Ten regular season title. This came on the back of a mind-blowing performance at the expense of Ohio State at the Big 4 meet. They conveniently extended their conference record to 9-0 with a 12-2 win. With this now, they are undefeated in eight straight matches.

On March 1, Jordan Chiles and No. 3 UCLA made history, securing their first-ever Big Ten regular season title with a dominant performance at the Big Four meet at Ohio State. The Bruins (12-2) went undefeated in conference play with a flawless 9-0 record and claimed their eighth consecutive meet victory. Nebraska and Rutgers were also there to feel the brunt of UCLA’s masterclass.

With a score of 197.200, UCLA toppled Nebraska (196.675), Ohio State (196.650), and Rutgers (195.875), proving once again why they’re a powerhouse in college gymnastics. Chiles, who had cheered so hard for her team she nearly lost her voice, still made sure to speak after the win. Reflecting on her own journey, she shared words of encouragement for the juniors on the team.

“I’ve been in your boat; I’ve been in your position. You want to be the best,” she said, acknowledging the pressure freshmen face. She reminded them that this moment was just one part of a much bigger journey. “Understand that no matter what you are doing, no matter how many times you are going out there, this is a short period of time,” she added, encouraging them to embrace every step of the process.

For Chiles, the key is enjoying every moment, whether it’s the high of a big win or the grind of daily training. “You have a journey, you have chapters in your book you are writing,” she said! She emphasizes that students should fully appreciate the learning opportunity before them. Since being the team leader, she knows that success relies more on the experience than the number of medals earned.

The way she conducts herself guarantees that upcoming athletes will learn from her knowledge. But everything she’s learned? The same principle comes directly from Simone Biles, who holds the title of the greatest athlete in gymnastics.

The life lessons Simone Biles taught Jordan Chiles

Before the Paris Olympics competition, Jordan Chiles and Simone Biles urged Suni Lee to approach her performance like the reigning Olympic champion.

At the Olympic podium with Rebeca Andrade and Chiles, she seized that moment to realize the historic significance of being the first all-Black gymnastics team. In addition to boosting confidence, Biles also provided her teammates with lessons on assertiveness and self-advocacy. Even Jordan Chiles, now 23, has always had a rock in Simone Biles—more than just a teammate.

She’s also been a mentor, a big sister, and the person who’s kept her going. Back in 2018, Chiles was ready to walk away from gymnastics after finishing 11th at nationals. Frustrated and convinced her time was up, she thought, “I guess this sport is coming to an end for me because things just aren’t working out for me at all whatsoever.” But just when Chiles was sinking deeper and deeper, Biles came for her.

Inviting the young gymnast to train with her at the World Champions Center in her home state of Texas, $imoney made sure that Chiles wouldn’t quit. And to support Biles in her attempt were coaches Cecile and Laurent Landi. Fast forward to the 2024 Olympics, and Simone was right there again when Jordan needed her most. Chiles had just won bronze in the women’s floor exercise.

That is, until a review overturned the results, giving the medal to Ana Barbosu of Romania instead. It was a gut punch, but Simone was the first to lift her up. “She was honestly one of the biggest supporters during that time frame,” Chiles said. “Having somebody who is not only the GOAT in your sport and seeing her be able to conquer so many things, not only within her life but also within the sport, definitely can give you a different perspective on who you can become.”

But Simone’s impact on Jordan isn’t just about gymnastics—it’s about life. One of the biggest lessons she’s passed down? “Always use your voice. Stand your ground,” Chiles shared with The Cut. “She told me to understand the word ‘no’ and to strive for things that are greater so you can continue on your path.” Now, after years of soaking up that wisdom, Jordan is doing the same for the next generation at UCLA.

She is leading, mentoring, and making sure the younger gymnasts know they’re capable of more than they ever imagined.