“Unbreakable.” That’s how Jordan Chiles describes her bond with Simone Biles, and it truly says it all. The connection between these two has become legendary in gymnastics, with their constant support for each other both on and off the mat. Last year, they teamed up once again to win a team gold at the Paris Olympics, showing just how much they inspire and challenge each other to reach new heights. But it wasn’t just the victories that brought them closer—it was the moments of struggle too.

Take the 2024 Olympics, for example. Jordan had initially earned a bronze in the women’s floor exercise, but after a review, she had to give up the medal to Ana Barbosu of Romania. Naturally, she was crushed, but Simone was there every step of the way to offer support. “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.”

Simone’s influence on Jordan goes beyond just advice—she’s a role model, a mentor, and someone Jordan looks up to in so many ways. Chiles reflected on the many roles Simone plays in her life. The best advice Simone has given Jordan? “Always use your voice. Stand your ground,” Jordan 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.” Simone has influenced both Jordan’s gymnastics journey and her life as a whole.

The truth is clear: Simone serves as the motivator who prevents Jordan from leaving competitive gymnastics. The 2018 national championship finish that positioned Jordan in 11th place marked the start of her desire to end her gymnastics career. “I guess this sport is coming to an end for me because things just aren’t working out for me at all whatsoever,” Chiles said back in 2018. Simone refused to allow such a setback to stop her path. Simone extended an invitation to Jordan for training at the World Champions Centre in Texas under her coaches Cecile and Laurent Landi.

Jordan Chiles knew this was her chance, and she was so grateful she didn’t turn it down. It was exactly what she needed to fall back in love with the sport. She said, “To my best friend, just thinking about everything we’ve gone through together, from laughing at jokes to bringing my love for gymnastics back… words can’t explain how proud I am of you.” Whether it’s offering advice or just being a constant presence, Simone has helped Jordan stay mentally strong.

When the going gets tough, Simone Biles’s support for Jordan Chiles never wavers

Jordan Chiles receives substantial support for mental health issues from Simone Biles. Through her own gymnastics experiences, Simone has demonstrated to Jordan how necessary mental health care can be. They’ve built such a strong connection that Jordan said, “We understand each other whether we do have to talk to each other or not.” Through sharing her mental health experiences Simone has empowered Jordan to disclose his own struggles.

She even shared, “Once it got closer, I was like, ‘This is what I’m doing, this is how I put everything into this.’” Amid preparations for the Paris Olympics Simone taught Jordan essential approaches for managing her mental health. The Paris Olympics became an even more challenging experience for Jordan after facing the competition.

When Jordan Chiles lost her Olympic floor bronze medal Simone Biles immediately supported her throughout the whole ordeal. During a PEOPLE interview, Simone described the situation as unfortunate because gymnasts had never encountered this kind of incident before. To take it even further, Simone took to X on September 17 to call out the chaos caused by the Paris 2024 officials, not just for herself but especially for Jordan. She made it clear how deeply this situation hit Chiles, reaffirming that she would always be there to support her WCC teammate. At this point, it’s obvious their bond is stronger than ever!