Simone Biles Addresses Criticism Following Candid Social Media Posts

Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, August 20th 2025 at 14:25 GMT by LA Times
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Simone Biles, arguably the greatest gymnast of all time, has issued a public apology following a wave of criticism sparked by candid comments she made on social media regarding her relationships and personal life. The controversy, which erupted earlier this week, centered around posts detailing frustrations with her boyfriend, Jonathan Owens, and expressing feelings of loneliness despite being surrounded by support. While Biles initially defended her right to express herself honestly, the intense backlash prompted a more measured response.

The initial spark came from a series of Instagram stories where Biles shared her struggles with feeling unsupported and misunderstood in her relationship. She alluded to disagreements with Owens regarding his football career and expressed disappointment over what she perceived as a lack of understanding from those around her. These posts, while intended to be authentic and vulnerable, were quickly dissected and amplified online, leading to widespread speculation and judgment about both Biles and Owens’ relationship.

The situation escalated when Biles responded directly to some commenters, defending her perspective and pushing back against accusations that she was being ungrateful or dramatic. This further fueled the debate, with many questioning whether her public airing of personal grievances was appropriate given her status as a role model and an athlete representing significant endorsements. Some critics suggested her comments were damaging to Owens’ career prospects, while others expressed concern about the impact on her mental health and image.

Biles, known for her openness regarding her struggles with mental health – particularly her bravery in speaking out about her experience with the “twisties” during the Tokyo Olympics and her subsequent withdrawal from competition – initially seemed reluctant to retract her statements. She emphasized the importance of authenticity and transparency, arguing that suppressing emotions only leads to further distress. However, recognizing the negative impact the situation was having on both herself and Owens, she ultimately chose a different path.

In a statement posted to Instagram, Biles apologized for the way her comments were perceived. “I understand that my words have caused hurt and disappointment,” she wrote. "My intention was to be honest about my struggles, but I recognize that I could have handled things with more sensitivity and grace.” She specifically acknowledged the impact on Owens, stating, "I am so sorry if my words have put him in a difficult position or negatively impacted his career."

The apology marks a shift from Biles’ earlier defensive stance. While she maintains her right to express herself honestly, she acknowledges that the timing and platform were not ideal. The incident highlights the complexities of navigating public life, particularly for high-profile figures who are often held to unrealistic standards of perfection. It also underscores the challenges of maintaining healthy relationships under intense scrutiny.

The backlash against Biles has reignited a broader conversation about the pressures faced by athletes, especially women, and the expectations placed upon them to be both exceptional performers and flawless role models. Many have voiced support for Biles, praising her courage in speaking openly about her mental health struggles and criticizing those who attacked her online. The incident serves as a reminder that even individuals celebrated for their strength and resilience are still human beings with vulnerabilities and imperfections.

Furthermore, the situation has brought renewed attention to the importance of supporting athletes’ relationships and respecting their privacy. While fans often feel invested in the personal lives of celebrities, it's crucial to remember that these are real people navigating complex situations. The intense scrutiny and judgment can be incredibly damaging, and a more empathetic approach is needed.

Looking ahead, Biles has indicated she intends to focus on her training for the upcoming Paris Olympics. While the controversy may leave a lasting mark, it also provides an opportunity for reflection and growth – both for Biles herself and for those who follow her journey. The incident serves as a potent reminder that vulnerability, while powerful, requires careful consideration in the public arena, and that even the greatest of athletes deserve compassion and understanding. The article linked within the original Yahoo Sports piece, detailing Jonathan Owens' perspective on the situation, can be found here: [ https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/nfl/houston-texans/article/jonathan-owens-simone-biles-instagram-relationship/ ]

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Simone Biles Addresses Criticism Following Candid Social Media Posts