Simone Biles, a gymnastics icon with an estimated net worth of $16 million, credits her incredible success to her adoptive parents, Ronald and Nellie Biles. At the age of 6, Simone and her younger sister, Adria, were adopted by the couple, giving her the love, stability, and support she needed to become the world-renowned athlete she is today. The journey of Ronald and Nellie Biles has been as remarkable as Simone’s, demonstrating the power of family in overcoming adversity and achieving greatness.
Who Are Ronald and Nellie Biles?
Ronald and Nellie Biles are more than just Simone’s parents—they are her biggest supporters and role models. Ronald, a retired Air Force serviceman, met Nellie, a nursing student, in 1977 in San Antonio, Texas. The two married that same year and went on to raise a blended family, including Ronald’s biological daughter, Shannon, who is Simone’s biological mother.
When Shannon struggled with addiction, Ronald and Nellie stepped in to care for her children. They adopted Simone and Adria in 2001, moving them to their home in Houston, Texas. Ronald and Nellie’s commitment to their family extended beyond words, providing a loving home where Simone’s talents could flourish.
How Did Their Adoption of Simone Change Her Life?
Simone’s adoption was a turning point that she says gave her a “second shot at life.” Before being adopted, she spent three years in foster care, an experience she describes as filled with hunger and uncertainty. Visits from her grandfather, Ronald, became the highlight of her time in foster care, and she eagerly awaited seeing him.
For Nellie, the transition to motherhood wasn’t immediate but deeply transformative. Reflecting on the early days of adoption, she said, “You wake up one day, and you realize that you would do anything for these children.” Their decision to adopt gave Simone and Adria a stable foundation and an environment where they could thrive.
How Did Ronald and Nellie Nurture Simone’s Talent?
Simone’s journey in gymnastics began at age 6 during a daycare field trip to a local gym. Her natural talent was immediately recognized, and her coaches encouraged her parents to enroll her in classes. Ronald and Nellie didn’t hesitate, signing her up and supporting her every step of the way.
Nellie recalls Simone’s unwavering dedication to practice, even when she was feeling unwell. “She never missed a practice,” Nellie shared. This commitment, combined with her parents’ encouragement, laid the groundwork for Simone’s illustrious gymnastics career.
What Role Did They Play During Simone’s Olympic Journey?
Ronald and Nellie have been present for nearly every major competition of Simone’s career, providing both emotional and logistical support. Their absence during the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions was particularly difficult for Simone, who said it impacted her mental health.
At the Paris 2024 Olympics, the family reunited in full force, with 17 members traveling to cheer her on as she clinched three gold medals and one silver. Nellie described the family’s presence as a source of joy for Simone, who always makes eye contact with her parents before her routines. Ronald even made headlines for using binoculars in the stands, a moment Simone found “soooo freaking cute.”
How Do They Support Simone Beyond Gymnastics?
Ronald and Nellie’s support extends beyond Simone’s athletic career. They own the World Champions Centre, the training facility where Simone honed her skills under her longtime coach, Aimee Boorman. The gym, opened in 2014, was created to provide Simone with a consistent training environment, reflecting their dedication to her success.
Beyond gymnastics, the Biles family remains a close-knit unit. After the Tokyo Olympics, Simone expressed her gratitude for their unconditional support, saying, “My parents saved me. They’ve been there for me since day one.” Their influence is evident in her character, resilience, and relationships.
How Did Nellie Help Simone Plan Her Wedding?
In May 2023, Simone married NFL player Jonathan Owens in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Nellie played a pivotal role in helping her daughter plan the wedding, offering advice and guidance while allowing Simone to make decisions that reflected her and Jonathan’s vision. The couple celebrated their union surrounded by loved ones, with Ronald walking Simone down the aisle.
Simone has often spoken about the importance of her parents’ example in shaping her understanding of love and support. “My mom gives me advice on everything,” she said, emphasizing how both Ronald and Nellie have been role models in her life.
What Legacy Have Ronald and Nellie Biles Built?
The legacy of Ronald and Nellie Biles goes beyond their role as parents to a superstar athlete. Their story is one of selflessness, resilience, and the transformative power of family. By stepping in to adopt Simone and Adria, they not only changed the course of their lives but also inspired countless others with their unwavering love and dedication.
Their impact is evident in Simone’s gratitude and achievements. As she continues to break records and inspire the world, Ronald and Nellie remain her foundation, proving that behind every great athlete is an extraordinary support system.
What Can We Learn from Ronald and Nellie’s Journey?
The story of Ronald and Nellie Biles serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of love, family, and perseverance. Their ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment for Simone and Adria, despite the challenges they faced, highlights the transformative impact of unconditional support.
As Simone continues to reach new heights in her career, her parents remain by her side, showing the world that success is truly a team effort. Through their actions, Ronald and Nellie have not only shaped Simone’s life but also set an example for families everywhere.