Simone Biles is no stranger to pressure, whether it’s nailing a complex vault in front of millions or gracefully navigating a tricky interview. In a recent sit-down, the gymnastics icon was asked to weigh in on one of the most contentious debates in sports: who is the greatest of all time, Michael Jordan or LeBron James? With her trademark poise, Biles delivered an answer that ended the debate-at least in her world.
The moment began with a simple question from Sports Illustrated: “Michael Jordan or LeBron James?”Biles responded with a smile, “I grew up on LeBron James, so I have to say… LeBron James.”But the conversation didn’t stop there.
The interviewer quickly pivoted, pitting other sports legends against each other. “LeBron James or Diana Taurasi?” Biles answered decisively, “We’re gonna go for women’s sports, so Diana.” When Taurasi was matched against Tiger Woods, she doubled down: “Again, Diana.”
Simone Biles champions greatness without comparison
But things got more interesting when Serena Williams entered the conversation. Biles, a longtime admirer of the tennis legend, didn’t hesitate: “Oh, I love Serena, so Serena Williams.” And when Serena was matched against Tom Brady, Biles was unequivocal: “Serena Williams!”
The interviewer saved the boldest question for last: “Serena Williams or Simone Biles?” With a laugh, Biles responded, “Both! We can both win, haha!” It was a classic Biles moment-humble, inclusive, and unwilling to diminish another athlete’s greatness.
While the GOAT debate may rage on in barbershops and sports talk shows, Biles’ answers reflected a deeper truth: greatness isn’t about comparison; it’s about celebrating what each athlete brings to their sport.