The camaraderie between Jordan Chiles and Simone Biles has become a legendary part of gymnastics lore. Their relentless support and love for each other, both on and off the mat, never fail to charm fans. Earlier this year, the duo joined forces once again to secure a team gold at the Paris Olympics, showcasing how they inspire and push each other toward greatness. However, it wasn’t just the triumphs that brought Chiles and Biles closer during the 33rd Games.

In the women’s floor exercise finals, Jordan Chiles initially won bronze, only to learn shortly afterward that she would have to cede the medal to Ana Barbosu of Romania. The 23-year-old naturally felt the disappointment deeply, but thankfully, Simone Biles was there to support her every step of the way. Now, as Chiles prepares to return to the NCAA scene, she couldn’t be more grateful to her best friend for helping her keep her head above water during such a challenging moment.

Simone Biles will always be a positive figure for Jordan Chiles

In a post by the official CBS Mornings Instagram account from December 5, the UCLA star once again was heard noting her admiration and thanks for Simone Biles. Recalling how the Houston native stood firm in her corner during the Olympic bronze fiasco, Chiles said, “She was honestly one of the biggest supporters during that time frame. I think 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.” Subsequently, she went on to get candid about the wide array of roles that Simone plays in her life.

“…this role model, this mentor, this wife, having the ability to continue to shine in different realms of who she is, as Simone Biles,” chuckled Jordan about how Biles has offered guidance in vastly differing circumstances over the years. Referring to the incredible achievements Simone has racked up in her professional gymnastics career, the UCLA student-athlete acknowledged that it’s an honor to have Biles rooting for you. With that, the IG post also reveals how Jordan aims to give back to the gymnastics icon.

Chiles can be heard saying in the recent social media update, “I just love being able to be by her side the same way that she is with me,” underscoring once more the inseparable bond the two Team USA stars share. But this wasn’t the first time that Biles stepped up to help her teammate show the way.

A helping hand was ever too far away

Since childhood, Jordan Chiles has faced numerous challenges. From enduring racial attacks to being told she wasn’t suited for professional gymnastics, the Washington native has overcome a great deal. Despite these hardships, she has risen to become a formidable athlete. However, her journey has been far from smooth. The year 2017 was particularly tumultuous for Chiles. Despite consistent performances, she was dropped from the national team, leading her to question her abilities and even contemplate quitting the sport altogether. Fresh off her inspiring Rio Olympics campaign, Simone Biles refused to let that happen.

Instead, she intervened and proposed that Jordan trained with her in Texas, at the WCC, which was owned by Biles’ parents. Chiles obliged, and her mom Gina couldn’t be happier. “It was exactly the right move. There’s not a person that’s gonna argue that Simone is the greatest of all time and having that to shoot for it, it just made Jordan better,” the gymnast’s mother said. And now, with all those cheering voices behind her, Chiles waits to start her NCAA season. The Bruins star hopes to bag her maiden NCAA All-Around gold this time, and she looks to be in high spirits before getting her NCAA shoes on.

During the time when Chiles took herself away from social media to escape the harsh words after the Olympic chaos, Biles continued her vigilant advocacy for the former. “JUSTICE FOR JORDAN,” Simone wrote on social media, urging that the CAS and the IOC reconsider the verdict. But while that didn’t happen, it surely looks like Biles’ teammate has other responsibilities to brace up to. So how do you think Jordan’s NCAA return would pan out? Tell us your predictions in the comment section!