Simone Biles Was Born To Become The Most Decorated Female Gymnast Ever

The sport of gymnastics is extremely competitive, especially on the women’s side. And over the last 30 years, the United States has dominated the sport. With so many talented female gymnasts in the country, it can be hard for one to stick out. But Simone Biles certainly does.

The native of Spring, Texas began training in gymnastics at age 6. The young prodigy made her first Olympic Games in 2016 in Rio de Janeiro. The pint-sized phenom has now become the most decorated female gymnast of all time. Here’s a look at how she did it.

Moving At An Early Age

Simone Biles was born in Columbus, Ohio in March of 1997 into circumstances that weren’t ideal. Her mother, Shanon and her father both suffered from substance abuse problems. Simone and her siblings were placed in foster care.

simone biles landing perfectly
Thomas Eisenhuth/picture alliance via Getty Images
Thomas Eisenhuth/picture alliance via Getty Images

They didn’t stay there for long, though. Simone’s Grandfather Ronald and his wife Nellie took custody of the gymnast and her sister. Biles grew up in the Houston suburb of Spring, Texas and got into gymnastics at an early age.