Simone Biles and Jordan Chiles are literally soul sisters and kindred spirits, in every sense of the word. From standing by in solidarity with each other during their mental health woes to being there for each other at the Olympics, they’ve done it all. Bowing her head in respect to Biles, not subservience, is the way to go for Jordan Chiles and it’s yielded results so far.

Chiles shared her viewpoint and stressed that gymnastics is just one aspect of her identity in a recent conversation. In particular, as she prepares for the Olympics in Paris, this open disclosure clarifies her take on her place in the sport and beyond. Chiles revealed her identity in a candid discussion on CGTN Sports Scene. “Gymnastics doesn’t define who I am,” she declared, echoing a view molded by her experiences and Simone Biles herself. “Simone is a great example of that,” the 23-year-old continued. “She’s married, building a house, and doing amazing things for herself.”

Also, calling Biles a loving sister, Chiles continued, “I think that definitely defines who she is as a person she’s an outgoing understanding, encouraging friend also a big sister so she definitely is a definition of you know defining who she is.” Additionally, both gymnasts are top performers for Team USA. Although in competition, they both have equal respect for each other. Chiles underlined that although gymnastics plays a big role in her life, it cannot and will never complete who she is. “Would I still be doing this if I didn’t love it? No.” She thought, “I’m pretty sure I would be somewhere else, maybe in a different sport.”

However, Jordan Chiles has been able to approach her athletic career with a healthy balance and an appreciation for other aspects of her life because of this perspective. Further, Chiles, who takes inspiration from Biles, believes that sincerity is important. “I don’t have to prove anything. I’m a world champion, an Olympian. Those titles will never be stripped away from me,” she stated. As Jordan Chiles navigates the demands of competitive gymnastics and gets ready for the Paris Olympics, this perspective has given her more confidence. How else does she echo her respect and admiration for the legendary Biles?

Jordan Chiles’s chimes in about Simone Biles

It is certain that Chiles admires Biles and vice versa. Jordan Chiles discussed her thoughts on competing alongside Biles following Day 2 of the 2024 U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials. “I love it.” Chiles told reporters, “The last time it was like this was back at the U.S. Classic,” harkening back to the tournament in 2021 in which she had placed second behind Biles.

However, Chiles conveyed her gratitude for Biles’ accomplishments and her mentorship role. “She is somebody that I’m always going to look up to, no matter what it is in life,” Chiles stated. This respect goes beyond gymnastics to include Biles’s general outlook on life itself. “Whether it’s gymnastics or just life in general, she’s somebody that I definitely have tried to follow in her footsteps,” Chiles said.

Moreover, Chiles’ faith has increased as an outcome of this connection. “So I’m very proud of her and to be behind her,” she stated. The 23-year-old has benefited from Biles’s guidance and teaching along the way, which strengthened the view that their identities as athletes are only a small ‘portion’ of who they are. Thus, Biles’s influence and Chiles’s perspective are important components of the road map as both get ready for the unthinkable litmus test aka Paris. Their bond galore? Let us know below.