Simone Biles reveals heartwarming reason behind her Olympic success in an emotional interview

HOUSTON, TEXAS: Olympic star Simone Biles has shared insights into her family dynamics during an emotional interview on the 'Today' show.

The gymnast, who just returned from Paris with three gold medals and a silver, marked a triumphant 2024 "Redemption Tour."

Simone Biles talked about her family and adoption

Simone Biles swiftly acknowledged her adoptive parents, Ronald and Nellie, during her interview with NBC host Hoda Kotb on Tuesday, August 6. The 27-year-old gymnast entered foster care at the age of 3 because of her biological mother Shanon's struggles with substance abuse.

Ronald, who is Biles' grandfather and Shanon's father, adopted Simone and her younger sister Adria when Simone was 6 years old, The Sun reported.

In an emotional conversation with Biles, 'Today' host Kotb asked, "You were someone who dreamt of being a gymnast, and you’re here today. So, if you had to answer this question - ‘If not for blank, I would not be here today.' If not for blank … who’s that person?"

Biles responded, "If not for my parents and adoption, I wouldn’t be here today," to which Kotb smiled and said, "That is beautiful."

Biles recently discussed her family dynamic with Alex Cooper on the 'Call Her Daddy' podcast.

"It's crazy explaining to people because I’m like, ‘My biological mom is also my dad’s daughter, and I call him dad,'" she remarked. "So it’s just like, everybody’s hella confused."

Biles went on to say, "It’s a whole family tree that you’re like, ‘Don’t make me explain it.' My parents are my parents. I got chosen. Feeling blessed."

Simone Biles opens up about her biological mom

Simone Biles talked about her adoption during an episode of 'Dancing With The Stars' in April 2017.

“Growing up, my biological mom was suffering from drug and alcohol abuse and she was in and out of jail," she explained. "I never had a mom to run to. I do remember always being hungry and afraid. At 3 years old, I was placed in foster care," Biles said at the time.

"Whenever we had visits with my grandpa [Ronald], I was so excited. That was the person I always wanted to see walk into the foster home," she added.

"My parents saved me. They’ve set huge examples of how to treat other people, and they’ve been there to support me since day one," Biles further said.

At 27, Biles hasn't ruled out the possibility of competing in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. "Never say never," she told reporters with a smile on Saturday, August 3.

"The next Olympics is at home, so you just never know. But I am getting really old," she joked.

Internet showers love on Simone Biles

As soon as Simone Biles' interview hit social media, users started reacting to it. A user wrote, "Simone is an absolute doll! I love her! She's so real and down to earth!! So beautiful and adorable!! We're so proud of her!!"

Another user added, "This interview was amazing. Simone speaks with such confidence and poise - just like when she’s competing. You can tell she is really joyful about the place she’s at in her life right now." 

A commentator wrote, "hello, she is so grateful! and so classic and elegant, and she is the best in the world of gymnastics! but she also have a big heart , and she is always showing that, especially what she did yesterday doing the medal ceremony ! she is like a bright star ! perfect smile." [sic]

"Simone! A great human all around," One said.

A person said, "I am so proud of Simone, awesome job everybody was wonderful all the best."

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