Mikaela Shiffrin and Ilona Maher extend heartfelt wishes to Simone Biles as she shows off unique cake on her 28th birthday

Simone Biles, the unparalleled gymnastics icon, celebrated her 28th birthday on March 14, 2025, in true Texan style. Embracing her roots, Biles hosted a Western-themed celebration that not only showcased her vibrant personality but also highlighted the deep bonds she shares within the sports community.

A Western Affair: The Birthday Celebration

Biles took to Instagram to share glimpses of her festivities. Dressed in a brown cow-print tube top, a white skirt, and matching cowboy boots, she epitomized cowboy chic. Accessorizing with a brown cowboy hat and a necklace bearing her married name, “Owens,” Biles radiated joy and confidence. The centerpiece of her celebration was a heart-shaped cake adorned with the playful inscription “Twenty ATE,” a nod to her 28th birthday.

Her husband, NFL safety Jonathan Owens, complemented her ensemble with an all-black outfit, complete with a cowboy hat. The couple’s coordinated attire and evident affection were captured in photos that quickly garnered admiration from fans and fellow athletes alike.

Heartfelt Tributes from Fellow Athletes

The sports world didn’t miss the opportunity to shower Biles with love. Rugby sensation Ilona Maher was among the first to send her wishes, commenting, “HBD!!” on Biles’ Instagram post. Maher, known for her dynamic presence both on and off the field, has often expressed her admiration for Biles, citing her as a source of inspiration.

Alpine skiing champion Mikaela Shiffrin also extended her heartfelt wishes. In a touching message, Shiffrin wrote, “Happy Birthday, Simone! Your dedication and passion continue to inspire us all. Here’s to many more years of excellence and joy.” Shiffrin and Biles, though from different sporting arenas, share a mutual respect and camaraderie, often cheering each other on during major competitions.

A Love Letter: Jonathan Owens’ Tribute

Jonathan Owens didn’t hold back in expressing his love and admiration for his wife. In a heartfelt Instagram post, he wrote:

“Happy birthday to my wife, my queen, my best friend, my everything. Being married to you is everything I could’ve ever asked for—a beautiful, funny, intelligent, and confident person that motivates me to be the best version of myself every day. I’m so blessed to have met someone as amazing as you, baby; I cherish every moment that we spend together. I promise to always make this day feel special. I love you so much.”

The couple’s love story has been a beacon of positivity in the sports world. They tied the knot in April 2023, first in an intimate courthouse ceremony in Houston, Texas, followed by a grand celebration in Cabo, Mexico. Since then, they’ve been inseparable, often sharing glimpses of their life together on social media.

A Year of Triumphs and Reflections

The past year has been monumental for Biles. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, she added four more medals to her already impressive collection, further cementing her status as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time. Despite her continued success, Biles has hinted at the possibility of stepping back from competitive gymnastics. In a January 2025 interview with Sports Illustrated, she mentioned that she would feel “greedy” to compete again, stating, “I’m at a point in my career where I’m humble enough to know when to be done.”

Looking Ahead

As Biles embarks on her 28th year, the world watches with anticipation. Whether she chooses to continue competing or to focus on other endeavors, her impact on gymnastics and sports, in general, is undeniable. Her birthday celebration, filled with love, laughter, and heartfelt tributes, is a testament to the lives she’s touched and the legacy she’s building.

In the words of Mikaela Shiffrin, here’s to many more years of excellence and joy for Simone Biles.