It has been many moments in the world of gymnastics, but the year 2024 has indeed been different for Simone Biles. Just out of her victorious return to the Paris Olympics with more gold in a glittering career, Biles has now been announced as Sports Illustrated’s 2024 Sportsperson of the Year. As the world relishes her feats, it’s Aly Raisman, her Olympic teammate and mentor, who has given quite a heartfelt tribute and captured hearts.

In an Instagram post full of admiration and love, Raisman highlighted the depth of their bond and her awe for Biles’ resilience, accomplishments, and impact both on and off the mat. Raisman’s earlier comment on the Sports Illustrated announcement was simple yet emotional, and it spoke volumes about their connection. Here’s a closer look at the friendship and what this recognition means for Biles.

 Friendship based on respect and support

The friendship between Simone Biles and Aly Raisman has long since outgrown the bounds of gymnastics. Having competed together in the 2016 Rio Olympics as part of the legendary “Final Five,” the bond between the two has grown stronger with time. Raisman was an experienced Olympian at the time and thus became somewhat of a mentor and steadying presence for the then-rising star Biles, offering guidance both on and off the floor. Their shared history has engendered deep mutual respect. In her most recent post, Raisman says, “Congrats to the GOAT @simonebiles on being @sportsillustrated 2024 Sportsperson of the Year. You deserve it. Beyond inspired by your success on & off the floor.” Her admiration for Biles is obviously not limited to being a great gymnast but also a strong human being.

Biles’ candid talks about mental health and her ability to be brave in prioritizing it at the Tokyo Olympics made an undeniably significant mark on Raisman and the rest of the world.

So, after Sports Illustrated announced that Biles would be their Sportsperson of the Year, a comment on the post—”Stunning!!!”—by”Raisman herself drove it home: pride. Not that she watches her friend go this big and succeed. But she celebrates what is happening right now with her resiliency and the voices for change around a sport that took so much from her.

Extraordinary is the road that has brought Biles to this recognition. From getting past setbacks to becoming a voice for change, her toughness has inspired millions, including Raisman. “So cool to be able to see your journey up close,” Raisman’s message continued, reflecting her pride in witnessing Biles’ growth and accomplishments firsthand.

 Biles’ Legacy-more than medals

As incomparable as the greatness of Biles’ athletic career is, with seven Olympic medals and more than 25 World Championship medals, her impact goes way beyond the sport. Her candidness about mental health issues during the Tokyo Olympics started global conversations about athlete well-being and made her an inspiration to many. The fact that she had such a dual impact made her the natural choice for Sports Illustrated’s 2024 Sportsperson of the Year award. Her ability to transcend the sport and inspire change were among the key reasons the magazine’s editors chose her. This influence she wields as a trailblazer, advocate, and role model indelibly marks not just gymnastics but the wider world of sports.

Comments of praise and encouragement from fans and fellow athletes alike have piled in.” She killed it!! This choice was well deserved!! 👏🏾👏🏾 one comment read”. Another added, “A queen on and off the mat.”

It’s not only achieved based on what has been done, but it is also a celebration of the example she shows to the forthcoming generations. From mentoring upcoming young gymnasts to breaking stigmas ascribed to mental health, Biles leaves marks in sports with every move.

A Celebration of Resilience and Friendship As Simone Biles continues to break barriers and set records, her recognition as Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the Year is a fitting tribute to her unparalleled contributions both in and out of gymnastics. Aly Raisman’s heartfelt note is a reminder of the powerful friendships and camaraderie that underpin the world of elite sports. However, Biles’ journey has just begun with her mentor and scores of fans backing her. But the more she inspires new generations of athletes, the brighter this legacy-one born of excellence, resilience, and advocacy-shines like a beacon of hope and determination.