

When Simone Biles strutted into Soldier Field last December wearing an outfit plastered with photos of her husband, Bears safety Jonathan Owens, she made one thing clear — she’s not just the GOAT of gymnastics, she’s also that wife. Loud, proud, and all-in on love and loyalty. The couple’s bond, built on mutual support and touchdown-level affection, was on full display during the Bears’ home finale against the Seahawks. And not just the match against the Seahawks, but in many more NFL games Simone was present at the sidelines to support her husband and to enjoy the games. But fast forward four months, and the scene looks a bit different. Remember, the NFL season is over and Simone has been spending time with JO either in their Texas abode or through the trips. However, is it the perfect moment for the gymnast to enjoy another sport? Let’s get into that scene.
On April 19, Simone shared a bittersweet Instagram story: “Glad I got to see you for a short bit before jetting off to the airport 🖤.” A simple line, but full of weight — this time, the queen of flips had to part ways with her king. The destination? Madrid. The reason? At first, a mystery. That is, until the next day.
On April 20, Biles dropped a surprise on her story — a snap of her and none other than Rebeca Andrade, her long-time gymnastics rival turned real-life friend. The two Olympic icons weren’t in leotards this time. Instead, they were all smiles, standing in the hallowed halls of Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of soccer royalty: Real Madrid. The another sport, remember!
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via Reuters
Paris 2024 Olympics – Artistic Gymnastics – Women’s Vault Final – Bercy Arena, Paris, France – August 03, 2024. Rebeca Andrade of Brazil is embraced by Simone Biles of United States after performing. REUTERS/Mike Blake
Turns out, Biles and Andrade had been invited to witness the clash between Real Madrid and Athletic Club — a rare treat for both, especially Biles, who admitted in a clip from the stands: “my first soccer match.” Well, Simone’s mother, Nellie Biles was also present in the scene. She was found enjoying a drink with her daughter and others in the same trip. However, in the stands, Andrade leaned into the spirit, rocking Real’s official jersey like a true Galáctica. Simone? She kept it stylish with a sleek brown leather coat, but one thing stayed close to her heart — literally: her “OWENS” necklace. A subtle but sweet reminder of home and the man cheering her on from afar. Ultimately, their cheering for Real brought victory as the home club won the match with a result of 1-0. But why are the gymnasts in Madrid, and why now?
Simone Biles joins the stars on a special occasion
Last night (April 19), Santiago Bernabéu wasn’t just the battleground for Real Madrid vs. Athletic Club — it was the red carpet of the sports world. As Simone Biles and Rebeca Andrade lit up the stands with their Olympic sparkle, they weren’t alone in soaking up the electric vibes. Joining them in the star-studded gallery were tennis titan Novak Djokovic, pole vault king Mondo Duplantis, and surfing legend Kelly Slater — a full-blown constellation of global athletic greatness.
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But the real moment? When Simone and Rebeca were each presented with their own custom Real Madrid jerseys, their names were bold on the back and the number ‘1’ was stamped beneath. A fitting tribute for two queens of the sport who are first in more ways than one. Now, you might think all these icons flew into Madrid just for the clash of soccer titans — but nope, the bigger play is still to come.
What’s your perspective on:
Simone Biles and Rebeca Andrade at a soccer match—rivalry or friendship in the making?
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Madrid is rolling out the red carpet this week for none other than the Laureus World Sports Awards 2025, celebrating its 25th anniversary on April 21. With both Biles and Andrade nominated, their presence in the Spanish capital is more than just fandom — it’s part of a grand celebration of sporting excellence. So yes, the Bernabéu may have had goals and glory on the pitch last night, but off it? It was all about legends meeting legends. And if that’s just the prelude, Laureus 25 is about to be one for the books.
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"Simone Biles and Rebeca Andrade at a soccer match—rivalry or friendship in the making?"