Simone Biles, widely regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time, continues to amaze not only with her athletic prowess but also with her heartfelt gestures toward those close to her. Fresh off an incredible performance at the Paris Olympics, where she added three more gold medals to her collection, Biles shows no signs of slowing down.
After a challenging lead-up to the Olympics, she has immediately embarked on the Gold Over America Tour, showcasing her spectacular routines across the country. However, amidst her busy schedule, Biles hasn’t forgotten the one person who helped her emerge from the struggles following Tokyo: Cecile Landi.
Landi, who has been a pivotal figure in Biles’ resurgence, celebrated her birthday in Georgia, and Biles made sure to send her best wishes all the way from Pennsylvania. Biles took to Instagram to honor her coach, posting a birthday message that read, “Happy birthday to the greatest coach @cecilelandi.” Along with this heartfelt caption, she shared a photo collage that captured some of the most significant moments in their journey together.
The first image showed Biles, in her white wedding gown, alongside her husband Jonathan Owens, sharing a joyful moment with Cecile and her husband, Laurent Landi.
The second image was equally meaningful, featuring Biles, Cecile, and Laurent proudly wearing the three gold medals Biles had won at the Paris Olympics. The photo served as a tribute to the shared triumphs of Biles and her coaches, reinforcing the idea that the medals were a collective achievement.
As Biles celebrated Landi’s birthday, she also playfully cautioned the University of Georgia, where Cecile Landi is transitioning into a new role as assistant coach. In her Instagram message, Biles wrote, “Athens, treat her right! She’s special!” This lighthearted warning highlighted Biles’ deep connection with Landi, emphasizing how much the coach means to her.
Cecile Landi has been an integral part of Biles’ success, and their bond is built on mutual trust and understanding. Unlike many coaches who might adhere strictly to conventional methods, Landi recognized early on that Biles did not fit the traditional mold of a gymnast. With her unique approach, Landi adapted her coaching style to suit Biles’ extraordinary talent, enabling her to shine despite the pressures and setbacks.
Following Biles’ struggles with the “twisties” at the Tokyo Olympics, Cecile Landi played a crucial role in helping her regain confidence. Landi’s unwavering belief in Biles and her customized training approach helped the gymnast return to form, eventually leading to her stunning victories in Paris.
Landi’s confidence in Biles’ abilities was apparent even before the Paris Olympics. In an interview on the ‘All Things Gymnastics’ podcast, Landi discussed Biles’ mental preparedness leading up to the games. She explained that Biles was attentive to her mental and physical well-being, maintaining a regular therapy routine that helped her stay focused. Landi ensured that Biles kept up with her self-care, understanding how crucial it was to her ongoing success.
The relationship between Simone Biles and Cecile Landi has only grown stronger over time, rooted in a shared commitment to excellence and mutual respect.
Their bond is more than just coach and athlete—it’s a deep partnership that has propelled Biles to new heights in gymnastics. With every challenge they’ve faced together, Biles and Landi have come out stronger, and their connection continues to inspire admiration in the gymnastics community and beyond.
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