Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens have expressed reservations about encouraging their children to pursue professional sports, highlighting concerns about the pressures and challenges they faced. Their comments come amid broader reflections on the emotional and physical toll experienced by elite athletes, prompting questions about the legacy they would want to pass on to future generations.
Concerns About Passing On Sports Careers
Simone Biles, one of the most decorated gymnasts in history, and Jonathan Owens, an <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL safety, have shared their reluctance to push their own children into competitive sports despite their successful careers. This viewpoint echoes that of Michael Phelps, the renowned swimmer, who recently voiced similar doubts about his sons following in his footsteps. The hesitation stems not from a lack of love for their disciplines but from a recognition of deep-rooted issues within the systems that govern these sports.
Both athletes have witnessed firsthand the physical and psychological toll of elite competition. Biles, in particular, has spoken openly about the harmful environment within USA Gymnastics, especially in light of the abuse scandal involving former team doctor Larry Nassar. Her experiences have left her wary of whether future generations should be exposed to the same risks.
Michael Phelps’ Candid Reflection on USA Swimming
Michael Phelps criticized USA Swimming’s leadership, highlighting operational failures that contributed to the United States winning its lowest share of medals since 1988 at the recent Paris Olympics. At 40 years old, Phelps questioned if he would want his four young sons to compete at a high level in swimming, citing a lack of accountability and transparency within the organization.
“As a Dad to four young boys, it pains me to say that I’m not sure if I’d want my sons to be a part of this sport at a competitive level,”
—Michael Phelps, Olympic Swimmer
Phelps also pointed to poor management and weak leadership as key issues that need urgent reform to rebuild trust in the sport.
Simone Biles Highlights Lasting Impact of Abuse Scandal
Biles has emphasized that the failures of USA Gymnastics to address the abuse claims and protect athletes have made her hesitant to encourage her daughter to enter the sport. She criticized the governing body for not taking adequate responsibility or providing assurances that such harmful incidents would not recur.
“They haven’t taken accountability for their actions and what they’ve done. And they haven’t ensured us that it’s never going to happen again,”
—Simone Biles, Gymnast
Beyond the abuse scandal, Biles has also spoken about the harsh conditions at the Karolyi Ranch training facility, where gymnasts endured strict diets and intense pressure. She recalled how some athletes, driven by hunger, resorted to breaking into the cafeteria at night, underscoring the unhealthy environment shaped by outdated training methods.
Shared Concerns about Athlete Welfare and Systemic Change
Both Biles and Phelps’ reflections expose critical issues about the competitive structures behind their sports. While their accomplishments have brought worldwide acclaim, the toll exacted by intense pressure and mismanagement remains a grave concern. Their hesitation to encourage their children to pursue these paths highlights a need for systemic reform that prioritizes athlete welfare and mental health over medals.
Public Reactions to Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens’ Relationship
Outside of their professional lives, Biles and her husband Jonathan Owens attract attention for their noticeable height difference. Owens, who stands 5’11
“, contrasts sharply with Biles, who is 4’8”
. The couple met through the dating app Raya in 2020, became engaged in February 2022, and celebrated their marriage with two ceremonies held in Houston and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Biles recently shared photos from football season portraying Owens towering over her, remarking on the height gap with a playful caption. Fans responded with good-natured humor about Owens needing to bend or kneel to match her eye level, highlighting their affection for the couple’s dynamic.
Owens secured a two-year contract with the Chicago Bears in 2024, adding to his previous NFL experiences with the Houston Texans and Green Bay Packers. The pair’s personal story contrasts with their complex professional journeys and profound reflections on sports culture.