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Simone Biles has offered fans a reassuring update following a recent, serious health scare that she described as “almost dying” from an undisclosed medical emergency.
Earlier this month, the seven-time Olympic gold medalist shared that she experienced a near-fatal health crisis that required hospitalization. While details about her condition remain private, Biles appeared upbeat as she prepared for a vacation to Belize with her husband, Jonathan Owens.
On Monday, Biles posted a TikTok video showcasing her morning routine and suitcase packing for the trip. “We are going to my favorite vacation spot in the whole entire world today, which is Belize,” she said. She went on to explain the personal connection her family has with the country: “My mom and her whole entire family were born and raised in Belize, so me and my siblings actually have dual citizenship.”
Recalling childhood visits, Biles fondly remembered going to Caye Caulker, noting how different the island was back then: “It was so long ago that the island didn’t even have fresh water for the sink or the shower. We showered with the salt water.”
In response to concerned fans asking about her recovery, Biles assured, “Yes, every day I am feeling more like myself. Will update y’all soon.”
The athlete initially alerted the public to her health crisis on June 6 via Instagram, posting a photo of hospital wristbands with the caption: “I’m not one to normally share things like this because I value privacy in today’s age. But almost dying wasn’t on my bingo card earlier this week. This was one of, if not the scariest experience of my life, especially since Jonathan was in Indy for practices.”
She expressed gratitude toward friends and family who reached out during her recovery. In a follow-up post, Biles shared an image of herself resting in bed with her dogs, along with a screenshot showing an elevated resting heart rate, underscoring the seriousness of her situation.
Prior to this incident, Biles had already been uncertain about whether she would compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. At the recent 2024 Paris Games, she secured gold medals in the women’s artistic individual all-around, vault, and team all-around events alongside teammates Suni Lee, Jade Carey, Hezly Rivera, and Jordan Chiles.
In an interview with French publication El Pais, Biles reflected on her Olympic future: “I’d say we’re still at about 50 per cent. Although I’ll also take this opportunity to say one thing: I feel we should know how to admire athletes while they are active and competing.”
She acknowledged the pressures athletes face, saying, “I’ve already been to three Olympic Games, and I feel fulfilled. It’s crazy to see how people always want more and more from you. In the end, the decision will always be mine.”
Addressing the physical demands of elite competition, Biles added, “I feel our bodies are a bit like an hourglass that’s slowly running out. Right now, I’m 29, and although longevity in the elite has advanced by leaps and bounds, it would be a huge sacrifice to try to be at Los Angeles [at 31]. We’ll have to see.”