The relationship between Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles and National Football League player Jonathan Owens represents a modern athletic power couple whose journey from digital connection to matrimony has captivated sports fans nationwide. Their partnership, which began during unprecedented global circumstances, has evolved into a marriage marked by public displays of support and shared commitment to excellence in their respective sports.
The couple's origin story began in March 2020 when they connected through the exclusive dating application Raya. The timing proved fortuitous, as the coronavirus pandemic forced the postponement of the 2020 Olympic Games, creating an unexpected window in Biles' rigorous training schedule. Owens later reflected on this period, noting that the global shutdown provided a rare opportunity for the gymnast to step away from her demanding routine. The enforced pause allowed the pair to develop a foundation for their relationship during a time when traditional dating would have been nearly impossible.
According to Owens' statements to Texas Monthly, he was immediately drawn to Biles' personality. He described her energy as consistently positive and effervescent, qualities that provided a welcome counterbalance to the pressures of professional athletics. The couple made their relationship public through social media in August 2020, with Biles posting photographs captioned simply, "It's just us."
Throughout 2021, their relationship deepened as they navigated the challenges of competing at elite levels in different sports. A significant milestone occurred in June 2021 when Owens attended a gymnastics competition to watch Biles perform for the first time. He expressed amazement at witnessing her athletic prowess in person, sharing his pride in watching her excel at the highest level of her sport.
The couple demonstrated their commitment through mutual support during critical career moments. When Biles competed at the Tokyo Olympics in July 2021, she sent birthday wishes to Owens from Japan, expressing gratitude for his emotional support during challenging times. Upon her return from the Olympics, where she bravely addressed mental health concerns while still earning medals, Biles visited Owens at a Houston Texans practice facility, where they shared an affectionate moment on the field.
The relationship reached a new chapter in February 2022 when Owens proposed following Valentine's Day celebrations. Biles announced the engagement through social media with evident enthusiasm, declaring it "THE EASIEST YES" and expressing excitement about their future together. Wedding planning progressed throughout 2022, with the couple selecting a venue and setting a date by May of that year.
A particularly meaningful moment occurred in July 2022 when Owens accompanied Biles to the White House, where President Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom. At 25 years old, Biles became the youngest recipient of this prestigious honor. Owens publicly praised her achievement, describing himself as blessed to witness the ceremony and calling her an inspiration who motivated him to become a better version of himself.
The couple married in April 2023 in Texas, with Owens declaring Biles "My person, forever" in wedding photographs shared on social media. Their first year of marriage presented new challenges as Owens signed with the Green Bay Packers, necessitating a long-distance arrangement while Biles returned to competitive gymnastics after a two-year hiatus. Despite the geographical separation, they maintained their supportive dynamic, with each attending the other's competitions whenever possible.
The relationship briefly attracted controversy in December 2023 when Owens made comments during a podcast interview that some interpreted as dismissive. He referred to himself as "the catch" in the relationship and claimed unfamiliarity with Biles' Olympic achievements prior to meeting her. The couple weathered the social media criticism with humor and solidarity, with Biles posting a dismissive response and Owens sharing wedding photos captioned "Unbothered" with her supportive comment affirming their commitment.
The 2024 Paris Olympics showcased their partnership prominently when Owens attended the women's gymnastics finals on July 30. Photographs captured him wearing a shirt featuring his wife's image while meticulously tracking her scores on paper. He later explained to reporters that watching someone he loved compete at such a high level, where injury remained a constant possibility, created intense anxiety. His visible nervousness and careful score-keeping demonstrated the depth of his emotional investment in her success.
The couple continued supporting each other through subsequent seasons, with Biles attending Chicago Bears games after Owens joined the team. A particularly memorable moment occurred in January 2026 when Biles kissed Owens on the snowy sidelines of Soldier Field before a playoff game against the Green Bay Packers, which the Bears won decisively.
Most recently, in February 2026, the athletic couple made a surprise appearance at the Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, where they attended men's figure skating competitions. During an in-arena interview, Biles expressed admiration for winter athletes while humorously acknowledging her own limitations on ice. The appearance underscored their shared appreciation for athletic excellence across all disciplines and their willingness to celebrate achievements beyond their own sports.
The relationship between Biles and Owens illustrates how two individuals operating at the pinnacle of their respective sports can build a partnership founded on mutual respect, understanding of athletic demands, and unwavering support. Their journey from a pandemic-era dating app connection to a marriage celebrated across the sports world demonstrates that even the most accomplished athletes benefit from having a partner who understands the unique pressures and triumphs of elite competition. As they continue navigating their careers and marriage, they remain a compelling example of how shared values and genuine support can sustain a relationship amid extraordinary public scrutiny and professional demands.
