After Simone Biles accepted the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden at the White House on Thursday, the celebrated gymnast took to social media to express her gratitude.
“I’m so honored & thankful to be recognized as a recipient by President Biden for this prestigious award,” she wrote on Instagram after becoming the youngest person ever to receive the award.
Biles, 25, shared a special image of herself smiling from ear to ear as Biden placed the distinguished medal around her neck. Reflecting on the special moment, she added, “I still have no words. I’m shocked!”
Following Thursday’s celebratory post, Biles shared another sweet image on Friday, this time of her and fiancé, NFL player Jonathan Owens, who posed for a photo from the White House lawn.
The Houston Texans safety penned a heartfelt letter to his wife-to-be, expressing his love and appreciation for the young star.
“Words can’t explain how proud i am of you, this has been such a surreal experience to watch you receive your Presidential Medal of Freedom, and be the youngest to ever receive one at that!,” he wrote. “You’re one of the strongest people i know and are so deserving, I’m so blessed to be able to experience this with you.”
Owens concluded by adding, “You motivate me more everyday to be the best version of myself. Such a inspiration, i love you so much babe.”
Biles, in addition to 16 other honorees, including acclaimed actor Denzel Washington, were invited to the White House to attend the medal ceremony. Washington was unable to attend due to testing positive for COVID.
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