Simone Biles Returns the Favor to Serena Williams Following Tennis Legend’s Heartfelt Message

The world’s former No. 1 in singles for a record 319 weeks, Serena Williams, meeting the most decorated gymnast in history, Simone Biles? Talk about a legendary crossover! On December 5th, these two powerhouses came together at a Vogue and Female Quotient event, and the internet couldn’t keep calm. Seeing two of the most inspirational female athletes of all time share a moment like this? It was nothing short of iconic. After the event, Serena took to Instagram to gush about the meeting.

Her caption read: “Yesterday, I sat with the goat @simonebiles at an EVENING OF IMPACTFUL CONVERSATION with @audemarspiguet, @vanityfair, @femalequotient, and a house full of women. I love to see it.” That GOAT nod from Serena wasn’t just casual—coming from someone of her stature, it’s a massive stamp of respect. And let’s face it, Simone’s resume more than earns her the title.

But Simone wasn’t going to let the love go unreturned. She shared her own Instagram post from the event, featuring a carousel of moments, including one with Serena. Her caption? “Goated conversations.” Short, sweet, and packed with meaning. Serena Williams even chimed in the comments with a simple “Love.”

It’s clear the respect between these two legends isn’t a one-way street. Both women understand the weight of their influence and the legacy they’re creating—not just in sports but in culture. With Serena’s high praise, Simone Biles now holds a spot in the tennis icon’s exclusive GOAT circle.

In 2022, Serena was questioned on which athletes she thinks are the GOATS. The first name on the tennis player’s list was F1 driver Lewis Hamilton. She claimed that not only is he the greatest driver ever, Lewis is also an amazing guy. The tennis player then went on to name three more players, saying, “I think LeBron [James] is amazing; I think Tiger Woods is amazing. [We] can’t start this conversation without naming the original, Michael Jordan.” 

Finally, she concluded her list after adding herself to it. But her caption on December 4th makes it seem that the player has updated this list and has also added Simone Biles to it. This is a great honor for the gymnast, who has been acknowledged for her contribution to the sport by numerous other athletes too.

Stars who have praised Simone Biles

Simone Biles has earned the respect and admiration of many athletes throughout her illustrious career, with even more backing her during tough times. One superstar who has consistently supported Simone is Usain Bolt. When Simone made the difficult decision to withdraw from the Tokyo Olympics, Bolt was one of the first to voice his support, praising her decision to prioritize her mental health. The Fastest Man Alive continued to cheer her on when she made her comeback to the Paris Olympics, telling Olympics.com, “I think she is on her way back to be like Top. So, I think she will definitely medal for sure.”

Beyond Bolt, another athlete who has long admired Simone Biles is three-time Olympic gold medalist Gabby Thomas. She shared with Ali on the Run, “I’ve always been a Simone fan, even more so after Tokyo.” Gabby went on to explain that her first conversation with Simone in Paris was a game-changer. “She shared with me how to advocate for myself, how it’s okay to say no, and how I should be proud of my bronzes and silvers, not to let people forget; that’s part of the journey.” But wait. There’s more!

LeBron James also echoed his admiration for the gymnast, calling her simply, “the best.” In an ESPN interview, he said, “She’s an inspiration to my daughter and to all…if you love greatness,” adding, “Simone is super dope. And she’s an inspiration to my daughter and to all, not only Black girls in the world, but also, kids, anyone, not only just in gymnastics, but any field.”

Simone Biles’ incredible skills and strength have not only earned her global admiration but also the respect of her fellow athletes—proof that her greatness transcends sports and inspires everyone who values resilience, talent, and perseverance.