In a lively chat with Click on Detroit, Simone Biles shared the magic behind her Gold Over America Tour. When the host asked if it was like “gymnastics meets concert,” she laughed, agreeing wholeheartedly, “Yes, that’s exactly how I would describe it.” The tour, she explained, is a high-energy blend of pop and gymnastics—a dazzling mix where the iconic moves meet chart-topping beats.

Simone painted a picture of the show, with a setlist full of fan favorites, from Beyoncé and Post Malone to a playful nod to “Ken and Barbie,” and, of course, a bit of Taylor Swift. The kids are “absolutely eating it up,” she shared, and the entire audience joins in, singing along as they perform. For Simone, it’s truly a blessing to see the crowd so engaged, turning each performance into a vibrant celebration of gymnastics and music.

With Taylor Swift now boasting a net worth of $1.6 billion, fueled by ventures like her record-breaking tours and high-profile deals, it raises the question: how have these two icons—Simone Biles and Taylor Swift—crossed paths and influenced each other over the years? Their journeys have intersected in notable ways, including a touching tribute from Biles’ team during the Gold Over America Tour.

One act featured the men’s Olympic gymnastics team performing to Swift’s hit “Love Story,” joined by professional dancers, in a nod to teammate Stephen Nedoroscik’s ballroom debut on Dancing with the Stars. And so, while rumors swirl and fans choose sides, what’s really behind the scenes of Biles and Swift’s relationship?

Simone Biles and Taylor Swift over the years

Let’s rewind to 2016, when the connection between Simone Biles and Taylor Swift quietly began. Swift, already cheering for Team USA, sent her well-wishes to Biles and the team before the Rio Olympics, catching the gymnast’s attention as a proud Swiftie. They finally crossed paths in 2017 at a Super Bowl party in Houston, and Biles couldn’t resist sharing a snapshot of her standing next to Swift, her 4’8″ frame dwarfed by Swift’s 5’10” presence. It was a dream-come-true moment for Biles, solidifying her admiration for the singer.

Fast forward to 2021, and Biles faced intense scrutiny during the Tokyo Olympics, stepping back from events to focus on her mental health—a decision that sparked both backlash and support. Swift, ever the empath, publicly supported Biles in a heartfelt video set to her song “This Is Me Trying.” Swift’s message applauded Biles’ courage, calling her “perfectly human” and expressing what many felt but couldn’t quite say.

Biles, moved by this gesture from her idol, responded with heartfelt gratitude, sparking a mutual admiration that grew even stronger when she virtually presented Swift with the Gracie Grand Award later that year. In her tribute, Biles praised Swift not only for her music but for the support and kindness she’d shown during Biles’ own challenging moments, acknowledging the unforgettable impact Swift had made on her.

And now, their shared experiences in the spotlight connect them on new levels—both are connected to NFL stars, with Biles cheering on Jonathan Owens and Swift by the side of Travis Kelce. And, even with a recent NFL rivalry between their partners, Biles keeps Swift close in her Gold Over America Tour, featuring a routine inspired by Swift’s “…Ready For It?” and blending it with her love for Beyoncé. It’s definitely a subtle but meaningful nod to their connection that’s weathered fame and challenges!