Simone Biles [1] continues to break records [2] and make history. On July 7, the 25-year-old Olympian, along with 16 other honorees, received the esteemed Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor — making her the youngest person to ever do so, according to President Joe Biden.
"To turn personal pain into a greater purpose, to stand up and speak for those who cannot speak for themselves."
Beyond being a world-renowned gymnast, Biles was honored as a "prominent advocate for athletes' mental health [3] and safety, children in the foster care system, and victims of sexual assault [4]," the White House previously announced [5].
"Today, [Biles] adds to her medal count of 32 — I don't know if you're going to find room," President Biden joked during his remarks at the White House. Biden then praised Biles for her ability "to turn personal pain into a greater purpose, to stand up and speak for those who cannot speak for themselves." During the award ceremony, Biles wore a bright smile and black tweed blazer dress [6] as Biden placed her medal around her neck, and her fiancé, Jonathan Owens [7], was there to cheer her on from the front row.
Biles was honored alongside other recipients like Megan Rapinoe [8] and Denzel Washington [9], though the latter wasn't present for the ceremony due to a positive COVID test, CNN reported [10]. The actor will be awarded his medal at a later date.
Over the years, Biles has shattered glass ceilings in the sports world and become the most decorated gymnast in world championship history [11]. Now, her latest accomplishment only solidifies that she's a true trailblazer. Ahead, check out more photos of her receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House.
