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With Biles backing Morgan, are we witnessing the rise of a new era in women's sports?

Endings are never easy. Especially, when it comes after more than a decade of etching one’s name in the record books. But, unfortunately, it’s time for Alex Morgan’s last encore. The final curtain call comes this Sunday after she plays her last professional game in the National Women’s Soccer League. However, not before she garners a well-deserved toast from another G.O.A.T and a dear friend, Simone Biles.

‘All good things must end,’ they say. Well, after 15 years of leaving an indelible legacy, it’s now time for the women’s soccer legend to ride off into the sunset. However, the 2x World Cup champion’s call came out of the blue, something that intensified the magnitude of her difficult announcement. Nonetheless, many threw their support behind her, hailing her for her contributions. And one of them was Simone Biles.

Simone Biles types a message for Alex Morgan’s

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On September 5, Alex Morgan took to her Instagram to announce her retirement from the sport. She added a moving video, speaking to her fans directly and voicing one of the toughest decisions of her life. “I have so much clarity about this decision and I am so happy to finally be able to tell you,” Morgan sounded steadfast as she made the disclosure. However, she agrees that the decision was anything but easy. One of her first loves, she confesses to giving everything to her game.

 

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A post shared by Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan13)

She also discussed her efforts to advocate for global investment in women’s sports. Overwhelmed with emotion, she could barely hold back her feelings as she went on to thank her family, fans, and then made the surprise announcement of her pregnancy in the video. As she concluded with a heartfelt “Thank you,” the comment section quickly filled with congratulatory messages from fans and fellow athletes.

One of them was Simone Biles who appreciated the USWNT star’s well-lived career. The 11x Olympic medalist gymnast wrote,congrats on an amazing career 🤎 thanks for elevating women’s sports!! 🐐🐐🐐” Biles even added three G.O.A.T emojis, symbolic of Morgan being the greatest of all time in her sport. Thus, from one G.O.A.T to another, the message sounds a heartfelt honor for Morgan’s exemplary career.

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With Biles backing Morgan, are we witnessing the rise of a new era in women's sports?

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Not just Biles, many women athletes penned genuine messages for Morgan. The alpine skier  Mikaela Shiffrin wrote, “What a legacy you’re leaving…you’re an inspiration for so many, including me!! ❤️” 11x Olympic medalist track and field veteran Allyson Felix remarked, “Thank you for all you have given sport and for all you have done and continue to do for women’s sports. A massive congratulations!!!”

But when it comes to Simone Biles, Alex Morgan seems to have a special connection with her. Rewinding back by a few months, a similar instance was documented, when it was Morgan who hailed the gymnast, WHile the tables turned today.

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Alex Morgan and Biles have a bond that goes way back

Back in October 2023, when Simone Biles and Alex Morgan shared a special moment. While the former was fresh off a gold medal at the World Championships in Belgium, Morgan spared a moment from her hectic schedule to hail Biles’ achievement. Adding a social media story, Morgan wrote, “Go on GOAT!” as Biles clinched a gold medal.

Back in Antwerp, Simone Biles led Team USA to a team gold and added individual golds in the balance beam and floor events. While she settled for silver on vault, she redeemed herself by claiming the all-around title. Her resounding success prompted Morgan to hail her as the greatest of all time.

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The tournament was especially significant as it marked Biles’ return after a lengthy hiatus. After withdrawing from several events at Tokyo, Biles took a break from gymnastics following the Olympics. The 2023 World Championships marked her celebrated comeback, solidifying her status as a veteran with her victories. Alex Morgan couldn’t help but cheer for her. Now, Biles returns the favor by adding goat emojis to Morgan’s retirement message. What do you think of the gymnast’s gesture? Share your thoughts below!