Simone Biles faced a serious health scare earlier this week. The Olympic gymnast, one of the most decorated in history, was hospitalized while her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, was traveling to commitments with the Indianapolis Colts.
The 29-year-old American shared what happened on Instagram Stories on Saturday, June 6. She posted an image of her wrist with several hospital ID bracelets and described the episode as one of the scariest experiences of her life. “I don’t normally share things like this because I value privacy, but almost dying wasn’t in my plans earlier this week,” he wrote.
Biles also showed a photo in bed with the dogs and a record of an elevated heart rate, reaching 126 beats per minute at rest — a value well above normal for an elite athlete. She said she has been resting since then and thanked the support of her close circle who sent messages, visits and flowers.
The episode occurred while Jonathan Owens was participating in team training activities in Indianapolis. Biles did not detail the exact cause of the health problem and indicated that she may explain it further. To date, there is no official information about the diagnosis.
History of overcoming the gymnast
The gymnast has publicly dealt with health challenges and mental pressure. At the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, she faced “twisties”, a blockage that affects body perception in the air, and withdrew from several events to prioritize her well-being. The case opened global discussions about mental health in sport.
Afterwards, Biles returned with strength at the Paris 2024 Olympics, winning more medals and consolidating herself as the most decorated American in the sport. These days, she balances her post-competition life with her marriage and following her husband’s NFL career.
What the scare reveals
Cases like this draw attention to the vulnerability of the body even of athletes at their peak or in career transition. Gymnasts have years of extreme physical demands, and unexpected emergencies serve as a reminder that constant health monitoring remains essential outside of competition.
Biles has been praised by fans, athletes and followers for sharing the moment with transparency, reinforcing the importance of asking for help and valuing rest.
