What can’t Simone Biles do? She’s not only a record-breaking gymnast but also a dedicated daughter, a supportive spouse, a fierce mental health advocate, and an all-around source of inspiration. With more flips than most people have socks, she’s the definition of unstoppable. If being a powerhouse were a sport, Biles would’ve already claimed the gold. And now, she’s finally receiving the recognition she’s long deserved. TIME Magazine has just released its 100 Most Influential People of 2025 list, and who’s front and center? None other than Simone Biles. And she’s not alone—three other American female athletes made the list, solidifying their status as trailblazers.
Let’s crunch some numbers. Biles now boasts 11 Olympic medals—seven of them gold—from the Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024 Games. Her position as the greatest gymnast in history is hard to contest. But her impact goes well beyond her athletic achievements. During the Tokyo Olympics, she made the bold decision to withdraw from several events to focus on her mental health, shifting the global narrative. It was no longer just about standing on the podium—it became about protecting well-being. That decision sparked a worldwide dialogue and helped cement her place on TIME’s prestigious list.
Her recognition comes with a tribute penned by none other than her former teammate Aly Raisman, who was part of the iconic “Final Five” that captured team gold at Rio 2016. Raisman described Biles as “both deeply human and undeniably superhuman,” celebrating her courage and authenticity. She praised Biles for openly embracing her vulnerability while refusing to let it hold her back.
“She [Simone] is both deeply human and undeniably superhuman—a combination that makes her impact profound.” – @Aly_Raisman
Congratulations to @Simone_Biles on being named one of @TIME‘s Most Influential People of 2025!
Read More ➡️ https://t.co/xloU3PYcI0 pic.twitter.com/c534SvtEBP
— USA Gymnastics (@USAGym) April 16, 2025
Biles and TIME have shared a strong connection since 2017. That year, she made her first appearance on the list of the 100 Most Influential People after her breakout performance at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she took home four golds and a bronze. At only 19 years old, she became a global sensation and also received the ESPY Award for Best Female Athlete.
By 2021, her impact had evolved significantly. At the Tokyo Olympics, her decision to prioritize mental health over competition became a defining moment in sports history. It wasn’t just about gymnastics anymore—it was about using her voice to spotlight a conversation that resonated far beyond the gym. TIME honored her again that year, recognizing her courage and leadership.
Then came 2024, and Biles proved once more that she’s a force to be reckoned with. At the Paris Games, she returned to form and earned three more gold medals and one silver, bringing her Olympic medal total to 11. Her incredible comeback earned her the titles of Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the Year and Laureus’ World Comeback of the Year. With a staggering 37 major international medals—11 from the Olympics and 26 from World Championships—her legacy is unmatched.
But more than the medals, Simone Biles represents resilience, growth, and power. She’s shown the world that setbacks don’t define you—your comeback does.