Simone Biles Marks Serena Williams’ Legacy Moment With a Tribute No One Saw Coming

3 min read

For over two decades, Serena Williams didn’t just play tennis, she redefined it. With 23 Grand Slam singles titles, four Olympic gold medals, and an unmatched mental edge, Serena wasn’t just chasing greatness, she became its very definition. From her 1999 US Open breakthrough to her final match at the 2022 US Open, she stood not only as a symbol of power and precision but as a cultural icon. Serena’s dominance spanned generations, her rivalries shaped eras, and her legacy now stretches far beyond the court. Her courage to speak out, build businesses, and balance motherhood with elite competition only added to the GOAT status she wore so effortlessly. But what happens when a legend like Serena gets another crown?

Enter Simone Biles, another GOAT, who broke the internet with a heartfelt Instagram story on July 12, 2025. “Congrats on your USOPC hall of fame. Well earned babes!!!!” Simone wrote, her words bursting with love for Serena. The gymnastics superstar, with 11 Olympic medals and 30 World Championship medals, knows a thing or two about greatness.

Her story wasn’t just a shout-out; it was a bridge between two titans, each dominating their sport. Simone’s emojis, hearts and claps, added a personal, almost sisterly vibe, like she was cheering from the front row. This wasn’t just a post; it was a moment. But what’s the USOPC Hall of Fame, and why’s it such a big deal?

Tennis: Wimbledon, Jun 28, 2022 London, United Kingdom Serena Williams USA during her first round match against Harmony Tan FRA on day two at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports, 28.06.2022 22:16:22, 18608819, tennis, Serena Williams, Wimbledon PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xSusanxMullanex 18608819

The US Olympic & Paralympic Committee Hall of Fame is the ultimate nod, honoring athletes who’ve shaped American sports history. Serena’s 2025 induction, announced in June, places her among elites like Jesse Owens and Wilma Rudolph. Her Olympic golds, singles in 2012, doubles in 2000, 2008, and 2012, made her a lock for this honor. The USOPC lauded her “unparalleled impact,” noting her role in inspiring generations. When Simone celebrates Serena, it’s more than a post, it’s a testament to their shared legacy. So, what does this mutual respect mean for sports fans everywhere?

Simone Biles and Serena Williams serve up playful vacation banter on instagram

Picture this: two sports legends trading playful jabs from sun-soaked vacations. On June 25, 2025, Serena Williams, the 23-time Grand Slam champ, kicked things off with an Instagram Story from a yacht off Corsica’s coast. The video showcased sparkling blue waters and the iconic Bonifacio White Chapel, with Serena cheekily tagging Simone Biles, writing, “Jealous? @simonebiles.”

The tennis icon, who retired in 2022 after four Olympic golds, knows how to stir the pot. Their friendship, built on mutual respect, thrives on these lighthearted moments. So, how would Simone, the gymnastics GOAT, respond?

Biles, with 11 Olympic medals, didn’t miss a beat. The 28-year-old reposted Serena’s story, firing back, “girllllllllllll yes,” with a broken heart and crying emoji, then added, “just you wait .” A week later, on July 2, Simone upped the ante from her Belize getaway with NFL husband Jonathan Owens. She posted a vibrant green sea view, tagging Serena with, “putting my phone on DND again! are you jealoussss?” This wasn’t just shade, it was a rally between titans. Their bond, seen at events like the 2025 Met Gala, shines through. What’s next for their Instagram showdown?

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