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Milan, Italy – For Simone Biles, arguably the greatest gymnast of all time, the 2026 Winter Olympics aren’t about competition. They’re about experiencing the spectacle, enjoying a new city with her husband, and savoring a moment of respite after a lifetime dedicated to athletic pursuit. The 11-time Olympic medalist is in Milan, not as an athlete, but as a spectator, a role she seems to be embracing with characteristic grace. This trip, a quick jaunt following a whirlwind move into a new home in the Houston, Texas area, offers a glimpse into life beyond the balance beam for the celebrated athlete.
Biles and her husband, Jonathan Owens, a professional football player, barely had 24 hours to settle into their new home before embarking on the international journey. “So this is our first big trip after moving in,” Biles explained, adding that she had begun packing a week prior to departure. She readily admits to being an overpacker, though she approaches it with a methodical organization, laying out outfits and photographing them for daily reference. The heavier jackets required for the Italian winter, however, proved to be a packing challenge.
Even a GOAT, it seems, isn’t immune to travel disruptions. A planned transfer in Germany hit a snag when Lufthansa experienced a strike, resulting in a 10-hour delay before finally arriving at Milan’s Malpensa Airport. “It was very hectic and crazy, but it worked out,” Biles recounted, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt. She’s also honed a valuable skill for a life of travel: she’s a gifted sleeper on planes, preferring the privacy of a window seat.
Photo: Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental
A New Perspective at the Winter Games
Biles’s presence in Milan offers a unique perspective on the Olympic spirit. Having dedicated her life to the Summer Games, she now finds herself appreciating the Winter Olympics from a different vantage point. “You’re gonna see the best of both worlds on every end of the spectrum, and that’s what makes the Olympics exciting,” she observed, highlighting the diversity and universal appeal of the Games. Her attendance, alongside Jonathan Owens, is a testament to the power of shared experiences and the joy of witnessing athletic excellence in all its forms.
The couple’s stay at the Mandarin Oriental in Milan reflects the attention to detail and personalized service often extended to high-profile guests. From fresh floral arrangements – hydrangeas, perhaps, with their delicate pink and green hues – to monogrammed hand towels, the hotel aims to create a luxurious and welcoming atmosphere. But for a seven-time Olympic medalist, it’s the opportunity to simply enjoy the event, free from the pressures of competition, that seems most valuable.
Valentine’s Day and Beyond
Biles’s trip coincides with Valentine’s Day, adding a romantic layer to her Olympic sojourn. Although details of their celebrations haven’t been publicly shared, the trip itself appears to be a celebration of their relationship and a welcome respite from the demands of their respective careers. The timing allows for a moment of connection amidst the excitement of the Winter Games, a chance to create lasting memories in a beautiful city.
As Biles enjoys the figure skating finals and the broader spectacle of the Winter Olympics, she embodies a spirit of appreciation and relaxation. This trip isn’t about adding to her already impressive medal count; it’s about embracing a different side of the Olympic experience, one defined by enjoyment, connection, and the simple pleasure of witnessing athletic achievement.
The couple’s time in Milan is expected to continue through the week, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the Olympic atmosphere. Further details regarding their activities and observations are anticipated as the Games progress.
What are your thoughts on Simone Biles’s experience at the Winter Olympics? Share your comments below and let us know what you believe of this new chapter for the celebrated gymnast.
