Simone Biles often steals the spotlight with her oeuvre, elan and oomph. Amidst the applause, the camera often pans to her parents, Nellie and Ronald Biles, who, despite not being her biological parents, stand as her true pillars of support. Simone has credited them with saving her and shaping her character, “They’ve set huge examples of how to treat other people, and they’ve been there to support me since day one” emphasizing their exemplary values of kindness. Their guidance is palpable in Simone’s disciplined approach not only to her craft but also to life itself. A recent exclusive interview with EssentiallySports, hosted by Mahalaxmi Murali and featuring Simone Biles’s choreographer, offered insights into the inspiring dynamics of this family.
In an exclusive interview with EssentiallySports, Gregory Milan, who is choreographing Simone Biles for Paris 2024, painted a vivid picture of Simone’s parents. Reflecting on a personal encounter, Milan shared how they graciously invited him to their home for a gathering, showcasing their down-to-earth nature. “They are people who were very simple with values,” he emphasized, referring to the simplicity and strong values exuded by Simone’s parents, qualities he believes have greatly influenced Simone’s own character. “You can tell that Simone has acquired these values.” Milan also remarked on their straightforwardness, describing them as seemingly square yet inherently honest individuals.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Milan continued, expressing his admiration for Simone’s parents’ hospitality and genuine kindness towards him. He recounted feeling warmly welcomed and respected in their house, attributing their demeanor to their inherent values. Despite their involvement, Milan noted their respectful distance, allowing him the space to collaborate with Simone without interference. ‘They were kind to me, they welcomed me very, very well, and at the same time, they left me alone, they left me alone with Simone when we were working on the choreography,’ he said. Through Milan’s testimony, it becomes evident that Simone’s parents not only imparted values to their daughter but also fostered an environment of respect and support, contributing significantly to Simone’s journey as a gymnast and individual. But what comes to our mind is whether was it easy for Nellie to become an adoptive mom at first.
From doubts to an unbreakable bond-Simone Biles journey
When Simone Biles was five years old, Ronald and his wife Nellie made the loving decision to adopt her and her younger sister Adria, who was six at the time. Simone’s bond with her parents is evident in the affectionate messages she shares on social media. On Father’s Day, she expressed her love and appreciation for her father with a heartfelt Instagram post, calling him “the best & sweetest dad in the world.” Similarly, for her mother’s birthday, Simone posted a tribute, thanking her for being a constant source of support and strength in her life. These gestures reflect the deep love and gratitude Simone holds for her parents, who have played a significant role in shaping her life and career.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Nellie once candidly shared her initial struggles in forming a bond with Simone and Adria, as she was already raising two sons of her own. “I knew I had my own barriers because these were not my biological children. You do everything that’s nurturing, that’s mothering, but emotionally, you still have to be there 100%,” she explained. Despite these challenges, Nellie recalled fervently praying for a deep connection with the girls.
“Because telling them that you love them and you care for them; that’s all words. But then you wake up one day, and you realize that you would do anything for these children. And that you would die for these children. And when that feeling comes, that’s when you know you are truly a mother,” she reflected. Nellie’s journey highlights the profound transformation from initial uncertainties to unconditional love and maternal devotion.