Simone Biles, the American gymnast who has long been hailed as one of the greatest Olympians of all time, is charting an unexpected course in her retirement. While speculation continues about whether she might make a stunning return to gymnastics for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the 28-year-old is currently dedicating her energy to a very different pursuit: horseback riding.
The Columbus, Ohio native, who has captured the hearts of fans worldwide with her dazzling performances, appears to have found a new challenge that fuels her competitive spirit. Biles has embraced the equestrian world with enthusiasm, sharing glimpses of her weekly lessons and bonding moments with her horse on social media.
Just this week, Biles delighted fans with a series of candid photos, including one where she could be seen leading her horse across her yard, beaming with joy. A simple caption read: “me, pony,” accompanied by a handshake emoji, perfectly capturing the playful affection she feels for her new companion. Another post showed her fully geared up in riding boots and jodhpurs, proudly announcing another lesson under her belt.
It’s clear that this new hobby is more than a casual pastime. With her husband Jonathan Owens, the NFL player for the Chicago Bears, immersed in a busy season, Biles seems to be channeling her energy into mastering a new skill while enjoying life in Spring, Texas. Though her natural athleticism gives her a head start, it’s unlikely she will reach Olympic-level competition in this field—but fans are thrilled to see her tackling something entirely new with the same intensity she once brought to gymnastics.
From Gymnastics Gold to Equestrian Goals
Biles’ pivot to horseback riding comes after a whirlwind period of travel and appearances. Recently, she took time off for a vacation in Australia and, last week, she was spotted in the crowd at the US Open in New York, soaking up the excitement of one of the world’s premier tennis events. Despite her globe-trotting adventures, her heart seems to remain firmly in Texas, where she and Owens have been building their dream home.
The couple’s lakefront mansion has been a work in progress, and Biles has shared numerous updates with fans, offering a peek into her life off the mat. During the NFL season, the couple splits their time, as Owens’ team obligations take him to Chicago. Recently, Biles confirmed that the couple has secured a temporary home in Chicago for the duration of the football season, but their Texas estate remains their long-term base.
Owens, who plays as a backup safety for the Bears, will earn a base salary of $1.36 million this season, according to Spotrac, leaving Biles ample opportunity to explore her personal interests. Horseback riding, it seems, has become a central focus, offering both relaxation and a fresh challenge.
The Olympics Question: Never Say Never
While Biles is clearly enjoying her equestrian endeavors, she has not ruled out a potential return to gymnastics. Last month, during the Ready25 conference in Australia, she hinted at the possibility of competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. When asked directly if she would consider it, Biles responded with a tantalizing: “Never say never.”
The comment has ignited excitement among fans worldwide, many of whom are already imagining a fourth Olympic appearance on home soil. Her previous outing in Paris 2024 was a triumph. Biles claimed gold in the team, all-around, and vault events, bringing her career Olympic gold medal tally to seven. The thought of her returning to defend her dominance—or to pursue new challenges—has captured the imagination of the gymnastics community.
Despite her potential return, Biles seems content to explore life outside the gymnastics arena for now. Her equestrian posts reveal a playful side, with fans quickly responding with a mixture of awe and amusement. Comments on her social media range from encouragement to gentle teasing, as many express disbelief that one of the world’s most decorated athletes is tackling something so different from her usual high-flying routines.
Fans React to Biles’ New Adventure
Public reaction to Biles’ switch has been overwhelmingly positive. Some fans marvel at her ability to throw herself into a completely new sport with the same dedication she showed in gymnastics. Others joke about her competitive streak, suggesting she could be just as unstoppable on horseback as she was on the mat.
“I can’t believe Simone Biles is now a horse whisperer,” one fan wrote. “The girl literally does everything she touches better than anyone else. Love seeing her have fun!” Another added: “If she decides to go back to the Olympics in 2028, I’ll be first in line to buy tickets. But honestly, watching her ride that horse is just as satisfying.”
Even skeptics have acknowledged her determination. Riding may not offer Olympic glory, but it requires balance, strength, and mental focus—all qualities Biles has perfected over years of elite gymnastics training. For many, seeing her embrace a new challenge reinforces the idea that she is not just a gymnast, but a remarkable athlete capable of excelling wherever she sets her mind.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
For Biles, these quieter moments in Texas offer a chance to enjoy life away from constant scrutiny. Married to Owens, whom she met while attending the University of Florida, she has settled into a rhythm that balances family life, hobbies, and public appearances. Their relationship seems strong, with mutual support evident both in public posts and interviews.
Building a home together has been a labor of love, and the couple has taken pride in sharing the process with fans. From selecting furniture to landscaping their lakefront property, the updates show a side of Biles that contrasts sharply with her high-intensity public persona. The addition of horseback riding seems like a natural extension of this phase of life—one in which she can pursue personal growth without the relentless pressure of competition.
Still, the lingering question of a possible 2028 Olympic comeback keeps the gymnastics world buzzing. Whether she returns or continues to explore new avenues, Biles’ influence extends far beyond medals. She has redefined what it means to be an elite athlete, showing that it’s possible to balance triumph, personal growth, and life’s pleasures.
Looking Ahead
As she continues her lessons and embraces equestrian life, Biles offers fans a tantalizing mix of stability and surprise. Her posts hint at a future filled with exploration, whether that involves perfecting a new skill, attending sporting events, or potentially returning to gymnastics.
For now, Texas has become her playground. From training at the stables to spending quiet evenings in her lakefront mansion, Biles is charting a path that feels both grounded and ambitious. And while the possibility of LA 2028 lingers in the background, she seems content to let the journey unfold at its own pace.
One thing is certain: wherever Simone Biles goes next, she will approach it with the same intensity, charm, and determination that have made her a global icon. Fans can follow along, whether she’s vaulting toward another Olympic medal or simply leading a horse through the yard with a smile that lights up the screen.
