Simone Biles is pushing back against critics who took issue with her recent vacation photos, sharing that the trip was part of her recovery after a life-threatening medical emergency.
The 29-year-old U.S. gymnastics icon and her NFL husband, Jonathan Owens, took a tropical getaway to Belize just a few weeks after Biles experienced a serious health scare. She had previously described the incident as “one of, if not the scariest experience of my life.”
Biles posted a series of sunny snapshots from the trip on Instagram, captioning them, “Till next time Belize ✌🏾💋👣.” But not everyone was thrilled to see her living it up so soon after the ordeal.
One fan commented sarcastically, “Almost died but look at these traveling selfies…” along with three laughing emojis. Biles noticed the remark and responded with a heartfelt message that quickly gained attention.
“Ugh these comments make me sad,” she wrote. “a little over two weeks ago, I experienced a serious medical emergency that could have ended very differently, and this trip has been part of allowing myself to heal & appreciate being here.”
She added, “I hope you understand that life changing experiences can shift your perspective,” urging the commenter to “extend a little more grace to others moving forward.” She ended with a simple, “Have a nice day!”
Biles had previously released a statement about her medical emergency, saying, “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.” She noted that Owens was in Indianapolis for practices at the time, and that she had been “in bed resting this week.”
The gymnast’s response echoes the broader conversation about public figures and the scrutiny they face, especially after personal trauma. It’s a reminder that even the most decorated athletes need time to heal — and that social media can be a double-edged sword for those in the spotlight.
Biles, who has long been a champion for mental health and self-care, seems determined to prioritize her well-being. Her vacation photos may have sparked criticism, but she’s standing firm in her decision to take time for herself.
As she continues to recover, fans are rallying behind her, with many praising her for setting boundaries and speaking out against negativity. The incident also highlights how quickly online comments can turn sour, even when someone is simply trying to enjoy life after a close call.
For Biles, the message is clear: healing looks different for everyone, and a little grace goes a long way.
