“I’m not the next Usain Bolt or Michael Phelps. I’m the first Simon Biles.” ~ Simone Biles, Olympic Gymnast
Summary: Simone Biles has become one of America’s top gymnasts. After dominating at the junior elite level, she won her first U.S. and world all-around titles in 2013. In 2015, she claimed a record third straight world all-around title. She went on to lead the U.S. Olympic women’s gymnastics team, nicknamed “The Final Five,” to win gold at the 2016 Summer Games, and dominated the competition, winning gold in the women’s individual all-around, vault and floor exercise and bronze in the balance beam. With 19 Olympic and World Championship medals, she is the most decorated American gymnast.
Nationality: African-American
Industry: Gymnastics
Q: There are countless little girls who watched you win gold and now want to be just like you. There is real pressure in being a role model and a real opportunity. What message do you hope to send to all these girls who are looking up to you? on cnn.com
A: To always have fun in what you do, because I think that’s when you’re the most successful.
