Simone Arianne Biles, 27 years, 4’11” (1.50m), with a net worth of $20 million, was born on March 14, 1997, in Columbus, Ohio, to Shanon Biles and Kelvin Clemons and married to Jonathan Owens.

Her early life was marked by challenges, with her mother struggling with drug addiction and her father absent from the picture. Simone and her siblings were eventually adopted by her grandparents, Ron and Nellie Biles, who raised them in Spring, Texas.

Journey Into Gymnastics

Simone’s journey in gymnastics began at age 6, when she started training at Bannon’s Gymnastics in Houston, Texas. Her talent and dedication quickly shone through, and she soon moved to the renowned World Champions Centre in Spring, Texas, under the guidance of coaches Aimee Boorman and Cecile Canqueteau-Landi.

Simone Biles’ Rise To Olympic Stardom

Biles began her elite gymnastics career at age 14 on July 1, 2011, at the 2011 American Classic in Houston. She placed third all-around, first on vault and balance beam, fourth on floor exercise, and eighth on uneven bars.

Later that month, Biles competed at the 2011 U.S. Classic in Chicago, Illinois, where she placed 20th all-around, fifth on balance beam and floor exercise.

Simone’s impressive skills and consistency earned her a spot on the US Junior National Team in 2012. She quickly rose through the ranks, winning multiple national championships and international titles. Her senior international debut came in 2013, and by 2014, she was a dominant force in women’s gymnastics.

Simone Biles’ Olympic Debut

Simone made her Olympic debut at the 2016 Rio Games, where she led the US team, known as the “Final Five,” to a gold medal. She also won individual gold medals in the all-around, vault, and floor exercise events, cementing her status as a global superstar.

Simone Biles’ Olympic debut at the 2016 Rio Games marked the beginning of her rise to superstardom. Here’s a detailed account of her journey:

– Olympic Debut (2016 Rio Games):

– Biles led the US women’s gymnastics team, known as the “Final Five,” to a gold medal in the team event.

– She won individual gold medals in the all-around, vault, and floor exercise events.

– Her impressive performances earned her a fourth gold medal in the team event, making her the first American gymnast to win four gold medals in a single Olympics.

– Biles’ dominance in Rio catapulted her to international fame, earning her recognition as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time.

– Her charismatic personality, signature moves (e.g., the “Biles” on floor exercise), and record-breaking skills captivated audiences worldwide.

– She became a media sensation, appearing on talk shows, magazine covers, and endorsement campaigns, cementing her status as a global superstar.

– Biles’ success extended beyond gymnastics, inspiring countless young athletes and fans with her dedication, perseverance, and passion for her sport.

Simone Biles’ Olympic debut and subsequent rise to stardom marked a turning point in her career, establishing her as a beloved and respected figure in the world of sports.

TOKYO 2020

At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Simone faced unprecedented pressure and scrutiny. She withdrew from several events due to mental health concerns and a medical issue known as the “twisties.”

Simone Biles withdrew from several events at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics due to mental health concerns and a medical issue known as the “twisties,” a phenomenon where gymnasts lose their sense of spatial awareness and ability to complete twisting skills.

This decision sparked a global conversation about athlete mental health and prioritizing well-being over competition.

Biles initially withdrew from the team final after struggling with her vault routine, citing mental health concerns.

She later announced her withdrawal from the individual all-around final, as well as the uneven bars and floor exercise event finals. This is also contained in her Netflix documentary; ” Simone Biles Rising“.

Despite her withdrawal, Biles returned to competition in the balance beam final, where she won a bronze medal.

Her decision to prioritize her mental health and safety was widely praised by fans, fellow athletes, and mental health advocates.

Biles’ exclusion from certain events at the 2020 Olympics was not a result of disciplinary action or scandal but rather a proactive choice to protect her well-being.

Despite these challenges, she won bronze medals in the balance beam and floor exercise events, demonstrating her resilience and determination.

Her courage in speaking openly about her mental health struggles has helped reduce stigma and promote a culture of support and understanding in sports.

Medals and Accolades

Throughout her Olympic journey, Simone has accumulated an impressive collection of medals:

– 11 Olympic medals.
– 25 World Championship medals (18 gold, 7 silver)
– 7 US National Championship titles.

In 2022, President Joe Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

In 2023, she won her eighth U.S. Gymnastics title, breaking the 90-year-old U.S. Gymnastics title record previously held by Alfred Jochim.

Biles has won the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year thrice (2017, 2019, 2020),and Comeback of the Year once (2024).

Simone Biles made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics, earning three gold medals in the team, all-around, and vault events. She also won a silver medal in the floor exercise, bringing her total Olympic medal count to 11.

At the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, she became the first American woman to win two Olympic all-around and vault titles, the first woman of any nation to do so since Věra Čáslavská in 1964 and 1968; silver on the floor. She also won gold as part of the United States team, who were nicknamed “Golden Girls.

With 11 Olympic medals, she is tied with Věra Čáslavská as the second-most decorated female Olympic gymnast and has the most Olympic medals earned by a U.S. gymnast.

Biles’ success at the 2024 Olympics is a testament to her hard work and perseverance, solidifying her position as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time.

Final Thoughts

Simone Biles has faced numerous challenges, including racism, body shaming, and mental health struggles.

Yet, she remains an inspiration to millions, using her platform to advocate for athlete welfare, diversity, and inclusion.

Her legacy extends beyond her medals, as she continues to redefine the boundaries of gymnastics and empower future generations of athletes.

Is this the end of the road for Simone Biles in her Olympics journey? Only time will tell.

Vinicius Junior’s Early Life, Parents, And Family

Vinícius José Paixão de Oliveira Júnior was born July 12,  2000, in São Gonçalo, Brazil. Popularly identified as Vinícius Júnior, he is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a left winger for Real Madrid and Brazil.

Vinicius, who came from a poor family,  had to move to Aboliço to live with his uncle. He started getting financial support from Flamengo and assistance from businesspeople.

Vinicius Junior’s Career

Vinicius had “futsal lessons’ ‘ at the Flamengo school at So Gonçalo in Canto do Rio between 2007 and 2019, a popular club in the city of Niterói.

On May 13, 2017, Vincius Jr. made his Flamengo debut as a substitute in the 82nd minute of a 1-1 Brazilian Serie A tie against Atlético Mineiro. Two days later, with a huge pay raise and an increased termination clause from 30 to 45 million euros, he renewed his agreement with Flamengo from 2019 to 2022.

On May 23, 2017, Vincius Jr. and the Spanish team Real Madrid reached a deal in which Vincius would join Real Madrid after turning 18 the next year, for a fee of €46 million. The fee was the second-highest price ever paid by a club for a football player in Brazilian history. 

He was formally introduced as a Real Madrid player on July 20, 2018. On September 29, he made his professional debut, entering the game as a sub in the 87th minute of a scoreless tie with Atlético de Madrid. Vinicius got his first start as a Real Madrid Player on October 31, in a 4-0 Copa del Rey victory away to Melilla. In a 2-0 victory over Real Valladolid on November 3, he grabbed his first goal 10 minutes after being substituted in.

Vinicius Junior’s Net Worth And Earnings

Vinicius Jr. makes about $55,000 per year and has a net worth of about 221,450 USD. Vinicius receives a weekly salary of about 270,000 euros under his current Real Madrid contract, which accounts for his principal source of income in football. That is equivalent to almost 292,000 USD every week. Vinicius Jr.’s current transfer value is projected to be at €120.00m.

More so, Vinicius is likely to sign a new contract with Real Madrid after his current one expires after the 2023–24 season. As per his new contract, he may earn between 325,000 and 378,000 dollars, or approximately 300,000 to 350,000 euros, every week.

Vinicius Junior’s Relationship

For quite some time now, Vinicius Junior and his girlfriend have been in a relationship together. After Vini refuted dating rumors, the couple’s relationship became public at the beginning of 2019. It was the Brazilian news outlet, “Lance”, that burst the headline that Vinicius Jr. and Maria were in a relationship. They exchanged phone numbers and began talking into the night. The following year, they secretly began dating.

After their initial meeting, the two are thought to have gotten along well.  The pair have been seen hanging out quite a few times, as they usually go out to get drinks.

Vinicius Junior Religion

Vinicius Jr. Is a Christian by religion. He is believed to be a Catholic.

Vinicius Junior’s Style Of Play

Vinicius Jr. is a versatile player who can play anywhere on the front line.  Despite his slim build, he is renowned for his movement, energy, and ability to run at defenses, change directions easily, and beat defenders in one on one instances while in possession of the ball. He possesses explosive acceleration, superb pace, flexibility, consistency, skill, unique first touch, and outstanding dribbling skills.

Vinicius Junior’s  Football Stats And Discipline.

Vinicius Junior’s Goals, Shots, and xG (Expected Goals) As Of This Writing:

• Goals Scored – 7 (0.36%)

• Goals at Home – 5 (0.56 %)

• Goals at Away – 2 (0.19%)

• Expected Goals (xG) – 5.79 (0.30%)

• Penalties Scored – 0

• Hat-tricks – 0

• Minutes Per Goal – 252 min’ per goal

• Shots Taken – 37 (1.89%)

• Shots On Target – 24/ 37 (1.23 %)

• Shots Off Target – 13/ 37 (0.66 %)

• Hit The Woodwork – 2 times (0.10%)

• Shot Conversion Rate – 18.92%

• Shot Accuracy – 64.86%

• Shots Per Goal Scored – 5.29

Vinicius Junior’s Dribbling & Offside Stats As Of This Writing

• Dribbles – 137 (7.00 %)

• Successful Dribbles – 59 (3.01%)

• Dribble Success Rate – 43.07%

• Offsides – 12 (0.61%).

Vinicius Junior’s Assists, Passing, & Chance Creation Stats As Of This Writing.

• Assists – 3 (0.15%)

• Expected Assists (xA) – 4.28 (0.22%)

• Successful Passes – 522/ 636 (26.66 %)

• Pass Completion Rate – 82.08%

• Minutes Per Assist – 587 min’ per assist

Vinicius Junior’s Yellow Cards, Red Cards, and Foul Stats As Of This Writing

• Yellow Cards – 5

• Red Cards – 0

• Minutes Per Booking – 352 min’ per card

• Cards Over 0.5 – 5 (25%)

• Fouls Committed – 35 (1.79%)

Vinicius Junior Play At International Level

Vinicius received his first call-up to the Brazil national team on February 28, 2019, in preparation. On September 10, during Brazil’s 1-0 loss to Peru, he made his official international debut as a 72nd-minute substitute.

In a 4-0 victory over Chile at home in a 2022 FIFA World Cup playoff game at the Maracana Stadium on March 24, 2022, Vinicius scored his first goal for Brazil.  

Vinicius was included in the Brazil team for the 2022 FIFA World Cup on November 7, 2022.

On December 5, 2022, he scored his first goal in a FIFA World Cup match against South Korea.

Vinicius Junior’s Honours And Awards:

At Real Madrid:

• Won La Liga – 2019/20,  2021/22.

• Won Supercopa de España – 2019/20, 2021/22.

• Won UEFA Champions League – 2021/22.

• Won Super Cup – in 2022.

• Won FIFA Club World Cup – in 2018.

Vinicius Junior Individual Awards

• Won the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior Best Left-Winger – 2017.

• Won the South American U-17 Championship Best Player – 2017.

• Won the La Liga Player of the Month –  November 2021.

• Won the UEFA Champions League Team of the Season – 2021/22.

• Won the UEFA Champions League Young Player of the Season – 2021/22.

• La Liga Team of the Season – 2021/22.

Vinicius Junior’s Height And Weight 

Vinicius Junior stands at a height of 5′ 9″ (175 cm). The Real Madrid Winger weighs 73 kg (160.93 Lbs).

Raphinha’s Early Life, Parents, And Family

Raphael Dias Belloli was born on December 14 1996 in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Dias Belloli, also known as Raphinha, is a Brazilian football player who plays for the Brazil national team and La Liga club Barcelona as a winger. Raphinha was raised in Restinga, a slum far away from the city’s capital, where he and his uncle Seu Osmar used to play at Brazil’s Monte Castelo. He also participated in another popular neighborhood club, Cobal.

Raphinha was born to Mr. and Mrs. Maninho Belloli. His father worked as an independent musician. Raphinha had a tough life; he talks about sleeping in the same room as his parents, younger brother, and pets, trying to pay for travel expenses, and occasionally having to rely on begging for food. Raphinha also has Italian ancestry.

Raphinha’s Career

Raphinha began his career playing youth leagues with Imbituba, where Avai later discovered him in 2014.

When he was 18 years old, Raphinha started playing in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A club, Avai. However,  He wasn’t listed in the squad, so he trained alone even though he sustained injuries.  Although there was growing interest from some of Brazil’s best teams, Raphinha was impressed with the 2016 Copa So Paulo de Futebol Junior, and so the forward stuck with them. 

Raphinha penned a contract with Vitória Guimares, a Portuguese club, on February 2. On March 13, 2016, he played his first game for the Vimaranenses versus Paços de Ferreira. On August 20, 2016, he scored the team’s opening goal against C.S. Martimo.

In May 2018, Raphinha began playing for the Portuguese club, Sporting CP. On August 12, he played his first game against Moreirense. The forward’s debut goal for the team came against FK Qarabag on September 20, 2018, in the 2018/19 UEFA Europa League.

Soon after, he went for Rennes. Raphinha’s transfer to Rennes cost roughly €21 million, which made him the club’s most expensive signing. He contributed to the 2-2 draw against Reims on October 4, 2020, in his final game for the team.

He contributed seven assists and eight goals to Rennes’ eighth-place finish in Ligue 1 in the 2019–20 season, ensuring their qualification for the 2020 Olympics.

Raphinha signed a four-year contract with Leeds United on October 5, 2020, for an undisclosed sum that was reportedly estimated to be around £17 million to €20 million. He got his debut on October 19, 2020, in the second half of a 1-0 loss to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

On July 15, 2022, FC Barcelona Raphinha agreed to a five-year deal with Barcelona for £50 million, with the possibility of add-ons raising the price to £55 million. On August 13 against Rayo Vallecano, he made his first appearance where the team drew 0-0. His first Barcelona goal came on September 3, when Barcá won Sevilla 3-0.

Raphinha’s Net Worth And Earnings

As of this writing, Raphinha’s net worth is estimated to be 35 million euros. Raphinha signed a deal with FC Barcelona in July 2022 that extends until 2027, which sees him have a staggering pay of £55,236,000 a year. According to reports, Brazil forward makes £1,265 every hour and £30,350 per day.

Raphinha earns money playing football, but the bulk of his income comes from contracts, bonuses, and sponsorships.

Raphinha’s Relationship

In February 2022, Raphinha married Natalia Rodrigues in a private wedding. When the two first met in 2013, they had a wonderful connection that later blossomed into a love relationship.

Raphinha’s Religion

Raphinha practices the Christian religion. He is of Italian and Brazilian descent. The winger is a Sagittarius.

Raphinha’s Style Of Play

Raphinha has excellent dribbling skills, similar to so many other Brazilian strikers. One of the most important aspects of his game is making the most of 1v1 dribbling situations, which occurs frequently in Raphinha’s role as a right winger.

Raphinha is also incredibly fast and can outpace opponents with a fantastic burst of speed. When dribbling, the Barcá forward has excellent touch and skill, making little touches to have the ball close to him.

Raphinha’s Football Stats And Discipline As Of This Writing.

Raphinha’s Goals, Shots, and xG (Expected Goals) As Of This Writing.

• Goals Scored – 4 (0.38%)

• Goals at Home – 1 (0.2%)

• Goals at Away – 3 (0.54%)

• Expected Goals (xG) – 3.46 (0.32%)

• Hat-tricks – 0

• 3 or More Goals – 0

• 2 or More Goals – 0

• Minutes Per Goal – 240 min’ per goal

• Shots Taken – 28 (2.62%)

• Shots On Target – 11/ 28 (1.03%)

• Shots Off Target – 17/ 28 (1.59%)

• Hit The Woodwork – 1 time (0.09%)

• Shot Conversion Rate – 14.29%

• Shot Accuracy – 39.29%

• Shots Per Goal Scored – 7.00

Raphinha’s Assists, Passing, & Chance Creation Stats As Of This Writing

• Assists – 4 (0.38%)

• Expected Assists (xA) – 4.36 (0.41%)

• Passes – 529 (49.54%)

• Successful Passes433/ 529 (40.55%)

• Minutes Per Assist – 240 min’ per assist

Raphinha’s Dribbling & Offside Stats As Of This Writing

• Dribbles – 37 (3.47%)

• Successful Dribbles – 18 (1.69%)

• Dribble Success Rate – 48.65%

Raphinha’s Yellow Cards, Red Cards, and Foul Stats As Of This Writing

• Yellow Cards – 3

• Red Cards – 0

• Minutes Per Booking – 320 min’ per  card

• Fouls Committed – 8 (0.75%)

Raphinha’s Football At International Level

Raphinha received a call-up in August 2021 to play for Brazil in the nation’s World Cup qualifying matches against Chile, Argentina, and Peru.

Raphinha made his senior international debut on October 7, 2021, joining the team as a halftime substitute in a 3-1 victory over Venezuela. In his 45 minutes on the field, he won a penalty, assisted two goals, and received accolades from sports analysts and spectators.

He made his first start and third appearance in a qualifier against Uruguay, scoring his first two goals for his country. Raphinha was added to the team for the 2022 FIFA World Cup on November 7, 2022.

Raphinha’s Honours And Awards

• Won the Taça de Portugal – 2018/19

• Won the Taça da Liga – 2018/19

• Won the Supercopa de España – 2022/23

• Won the Vitória Guimarães Breakthrough Player of the Year – in 2017

Raphinha’s Height And Weight

Raphinha stands at a height of 176cm. The Barcelona forward weighs 68 kg.