Simone Biles’ Estranged Biological Mother Opens Up About Why She Abandoned Her Olympic Hero Daughter
Simone Biles, widely regarded as one of the greatest gymnasts in history, has long been open about her difficult upbringing. Raised by her grandparents after being placed in foster care as a child, Biles has shared stories of resilience and triumph. Now, her estranged biological mother, Shanon Biles, has come forward to reveal the reasons behind her decision to abandon the future Olympic champion.
In a rare interview, Shanon opened up about the turbulent period of her life that led to the painful separation from her daughter. She explained that at the time, she was battling severe addiction issues and was unable to provide the stable home that Simone and her siblings needed.
“I was struggling with my own demons,” Shanon shared. “I was addicted to drugs and alcohol, and I couldn’t take care of myself, let alone my children. It broke my heart, but I knew they deserved better than what I could offer at that time.”
Shanon’s battle with addiction, which lasted for years, ultimately led to her children being placed in the foster care system. Simone and her younger sister, Adria, were later adopted by their maternal grandfather, Ron Biles, and his wife, Nellie, who provided the girls with the loving and supportive environment they needed to thrive.
Shanon acknowledged the pain of watching Simone grow up from a distance, especially as she rose to global fame through her incredible gymnastics career. “I missed out on so much, and there’s not a day that goes by where I don’t think about what could have been different. But I’m so proud of the woman she’s become, even if I wasn’t there to help her become it.”
Simone has rarely spoken publicly about her biological mother, choosing instead to focus on her gratitude toward her grandparents, who she affectionately refers to as “Mom and Dad.” Despite the emotional weight of her early years, Simone has continued to defy the odds, becoming a symbol of strength and perseverance.
Shanon expressed hope that one day she could have a relationship with her daughter, but she understands that healing takes time. “I know I hurt her, and I can’t change the past. All I can do now is be here, if she ever wants to talk. I love her, and I always will.”
Simone Biles has openly credited her grandparents for providing her with the foundation she needed to succeed in life and in her career, saying that without them, she wouldn’t be where she is today. Though the relationship between Simone and her biological mother remains strained, Shanon’s recent revelations add another layer to the story of a young woman who has overcome incredible adversity to achieve greatness.
