Home/Gymnastics
feature-image
feature-image

Madrid rolled out the red carpet for gymnastics royalty, and Simone Biles delivered a masterclass in grace, power, and presence. At the 2024 Laureus World Sports Awards, Biles wasn’t just a guest—she was the moment. Crowned Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year, she added yet another jewel to her already glittering crown. And the night only got brighter. With poise and pride, Simone had the honor of handing the Sporting Icon trophy to tennis legend Rafael Nadal—on his home turf, no less. Later, the scene turned heartwarmingly full circle as she shared laughs and embraces with Rebeca Andrade, her fiercest competitor, turned closest companion. However, the star-studded encounters didn’t stop on the red carpet. 

Meanwhile, in Madrid, Simone met none other than Nadia Comăneci, the original perfect 10 herself—a moment that likely felt like history hugging history. But Madrid wasn’t all awards and elegance. Simone made time for a dream she hadn’t yet lived: watching Real Madrid at the iconic Bernabéu Stadium. The twist? It was her first-ever soccer match. “Surreal” probably doesn’t begin to cover it. And yet, while Simone’s mom, Nellie Biles, stood proudly by her side, someone was noticeably absent: Jonathan Owens. The NFL offseason is typically downtime. No games. No camps. So… where was JO?

Then came April 22. Simone quietly posted to her Instagram Story: a photo of a plane just touching down, captioned, “home 7:09 pm.” A subtle sign that her time in Madrid had ended, and sooner than fans expected. So, was it just a quick whirlwind trip? Or did something prompt her to cut it short? Here comes the answer that would connect Jonathan Owens as well. 

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

article-image

So, while Simone Biles was lighting up Madrid—collecting awards, meeting legends, and making red carpet magic—Jonathan Owens was back in the U.S., quietly planting seeds for something just as impactful. On April 22, Jonathan posted something of his own: the official announcement of his 4th Annual Free Youth Football Camp, set for June 29 at CBC High School, his beloved alma mater in St. Louis.

From 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., young athletes will get the chance to train with the pros, run drills, and hear firsthand what it takes to make it in the sport. It’s more than football—it’s a movement. Powered by the Jonathan Owens Foundation, this camp has become a summer staple, inspiring the next generation to chase greatness on and off the field. Notably, last year’s camp, held on June 25, was a heartfelt affair. Jonathan was all-in, throwing passes, sharing stories, hyping up every kid who showed up with a dream and cleats. And this year? It’s already in motion. Registration is live, buzz is building, and Jonathan’s commitment is crystal clear. But here’s the twist: Even though she wasn’t in the football field spotlight, Simone Biles’ influence is all over this.

What’s your perspective on:

Simone Biles shines in Madrid, but where was Jonathan Owens during her big moments?

Have an interesting take?

Is Simone Biles’s husband inspired by her project? 

To the world, they’re powerhouses—Simone Biles, the gravity-defying queen of gymnastics, and Jonathan Owens, the NFL safety with grit and heart. But to their communities, they’re something even more powerful: hope in motion.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Simone’s legacy lives through the Simone Biles International Invitational—a yearly gathering where young gymnasts do more than compete. They grow. They dream. They believe. For her, greatness begins with opportunity. And see, just a few states away, Jonathan Owens’ Annual Free Youth Football Camp is creating that same spark. Held each June, it’s more than football. It’s mentorship, inspiration, and proof that dreams are worth chasing—especially for kids who remind him of himself.

article-image

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

And when fall arrives, Owens keeps giving. In Green Bay, during Thanksgiving 2023, he led a heartfelt Turkey Giveaway, telling: “I wasn’t one of the most fortunate kids growing up either… I always love to give back.” So, it’s a mindset he shares with Simone. From foster care to Olympic gold, she’s never forgotten her roots—or her mission to lift others as she rises. Ultimately, two stars. Two fields. One purpose: giving back with everything they’ve got.

ADVERTISEMENT

0
  Debate

"Simone Biles shines in Madrid, but where was Jonathan Owens during her big moments?"

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT