Supporting Simone Biles, BFF Jordan Chiles Reveals How Tokyo’s Chaos Was a Blessing in Disguise
When Simone Biles withdrew from several events at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics last summer, the sports worl was in shock. Her decision was a pivotal moment not just for gymnastics, but for athletes everywhere, as it highlighted the importance of mental health in sports. But while the spotlight shone brightly on Biles during her time in Tokyo, there was another athlete who played a quietly yet incredibly significant role behind the scenes — her best friend and teammate, Jordan Chiles.
Chiles, who had long been a close friend and training partner to Biles, stepped up in ways that few could have expected. At just 20 years old at the time, Jordan Chiles found herself thrust into the position of not only supporting her friend emotionally but also performing on the Olympic stage herself. The pressure of taking over for one of the greatest gymnasts of all time in a high-stakes environment was immense, yet Chiles embraced the challenge with grace and resilience. Looking back, she now reveals how the chaos and uncertainty of the Tokyo Olympics ultimately became a blessing in disguise, both for herself and her relationship with Biles.
Stepping Into the Spotlight
While Simone Biles had long been the face of American gymnastics, Jordan Chiles had been working in the shadows, never quite getting the recognition she deserved despite her immense talent. In Tokyo, Chiles was given an opportunity to showcase her own abilities when Biles stepped back from the competition. “I just wanted to do my best for Simone, for myself, and for my country,” Jordan said in a recent interview. “It was a lot of pressure, but at the same time, it pushed me to become the gymnast I am today.”
For Chiles, the experience of competing in the Olympics was both a daunting challenge and a pivotal moment in her career. She made an impact on the world stage, earning a silver medal as part of the women’s gymnastics team. She also stepped in to fill Biles’ spot on the individual events, where she demonstrated remarkable poise under pressure. But it was the emotional and mental support she provided to Biles that truly stood out. “She [Biles] is my best friend, and all I wanted to do was be there for her, no matter what,” Jordan explained. “When Simone needed space, I was right there beside her, ready to support in whatever way I could. It wasn’t about the medals anymore. It was about being a friend.”
Mental Health in the Spotlight
Biles’ decision to withdraw from multiple events in Tokyo was a watershed moment for the sports world, as it brought much-needed attention to the mental health struggles that many elite athletes face. After battling through pressure, physical pain, and emotional exhaustion, Biles chose to prioritize her well-being over competing — a move that was widely celebrated by fellow athletes and mental health advocates alike.
Jordan Chiles was one of the first to publicly support her friend during that difficult time. She was unwavering in her belief that Biles was making the right choice, regardless of the reactions from fans or critics. “I knew Simone better than anyone, and I understood what she was going through,” Chiles said. “It wasn’t about winning medals. It was about her being okay, and we all knew she had to do what was best for herself.”
The world saw the strength of Biles, not just in her gymnastics skills, but in her vulnerability and willingness to put herself first. But behind every strong individual is often a support system, and for Biles, that person was Jordan Chiles.
Growth in Adversity
Though Tokyo presented a chaotic and uncertain time for the U.S. gymnastics team, it also led to tremendous personal growth for Jordan Chiles. Despite the emotional challenges, Chiles found herself thriving in the face of adversity. The experience pushed her to discover her own strength and resilience. “It wasn’t just about being Simone’s backup,” she reflected. “It was about realizing my own potential and pushing past my fears.”
Before Tokyo, Chiles had struggled with self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy. She was often overshadowed by Biles’ brilliance and felt like she was living in her best friend’s shadow. But the events of the Tokyo Olympics helped Jordan realize that she had a light of her own. She is now regarded as one of the top gymnasts in the world, not as Simone’s sidekick but as a fierce competitor in her own right.
Jordan credits much of her transformation to the bond she shares with Simone. Their relationship has evolved over the years, from childhood friends to elite athletes, to sisters who support one another no matter the circumstances. Biles’ influence on Chiles goes beyond gymnastics. “Simone has taught me more than just how to perform a vault or a beam routine,” said Chiles. “She has shown me how to be strong and brave when things are hard. I’ll always be grateful for her.”
The Road Ahead
As the gymnastics world moves forward from Tokyo, both Simone Biles and Jordan Chiles continue to shape the future of the sport. Biles has since made a successful return to competition, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time. Chiles, on the other hand, is continuing to make her mark, aiming for more success in future competitions while remaining steadfast in her role as a supportive teammate and advocate for mental health.
Looking to the future, Chiles sees the lessons learned during Tokyo as a springboard for her career. “I’m not the same person I was before the Olympics,” she said. “I have more confidence, more courage, and more belief in myself. The chaos of Tokyo was difficult, but it ultimately helped me grow in ways I never imagined.”
For Jordan Chiles, the story of Tokyo is one of strength, friendship, and growth. It’s a reminder that even in the most chaotic and uncertain of circumstances, there is room for personal transformation, and that supporting those we love can sometimes lead us to the greatest breakthroughs of all.
