Full Breakdown
Simone Biles Responds to Online Criticism After Near-Death Health Emergency
6/23/2026, 1:04:54 AM
Near-Death Health Emergency and Vacation
In early June 2024 Simone Biles revealed she had been hospitalized after a “serious medical emergency” she called “one of, if not the scariest experience of my life.” Instagram images showed three wristbands and a monitor reading 126 beats per minute. Two weeks later she posted poolside photos from Belize with the caption “Relaxing in paradise,” prompting public debate about her recovery and travel.
Background & Context
Biles has previously noted the physical toll of elite gymnastics, saying the 2024 Paris Olympics left her body “literally collapsed” after winning three golds and a silver. She repeatedly stresses a desire for privacy, rarely sharing health details.
Official Statements & Responses
Biles said the hospitalization forced her to reassess priorities and described the Belize trip as part of her healing. She reiterated she is “not ready to talk about it just yet” and called online remarks “blatantly disrespectful.” Jonathan Owens told *Us Weekly* he encourages her to focus on her own path, saying “go do your thing, baby” and noting a supportive partner sharpens her focus.
Criticism & Opposition
A follower mocked Biles’ vacation with the comment, “Almost died but look at these traveling selfies… ???.” Biles called the remarks “sad” and urged more grace toward others. Critics argued the trip was premature, questioning leisure travel soon after a life-threatening event.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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 this week,” — Simone Biles, Instagram Story (June 2024)
- “Ugh these comments make me sad. 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.” — Simone Biles, Instagram reply (June 17, 2024)
- “I’m going to quickly address this, the joke was never a joke! Y’all are blatantly being disrespectful to my relationship & my husband,” — Simone Biles, Instagram Story (May 19, 2024)
- “It is not much motivation you need to do, just because you don’t want to put extra, added pressure on anyone. I just tell her, ‘Go do your thing, baby,’” — Jonathan Owens, *Us Weekly* interview (July 2024)
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Biles has not disclosed the diagnosis, treatment plan, or cause of the emergency. Sources differ on whether she will explain “sooner or later” or remain “not ready to talk about it.”
What’s Next
Biles says she may share more when ready and continues training for upcoming gymnastics competitions. Owens’ public support suggests a stable personal environment as she navigates recovery and future athletic commitments.
