Amanda Gorman read her poem “The Greatest” about gymnastics champion Simone Biles in front of the Olympic gold medalist at the InStyle Awards in Los Angeles, Calif., on Nov. 15.
Gorman wrote a whole poem to introduce the gymnast instead of introducing Biles with a few words or a kind remark.
Gorman noted Biles’ 32 medals and highlighted her rebelliousness in the poem. She also called Biles “bold and beautiful” and a treasure worth more than gold.
“It is time we see Simone as far more than her 32 medals. She is a champion because she never settles for less than the rebel she is,” said Gorman. “That is what it means to be Biles bold, a beauty to behold at just 24 years old. She is such a treasure, her worth measures more than gold. Simone has shown that power is from listening to a voice that is your own. That greatness lies not in if we’ve won but if we’ve grown, and that when one woman speaks her truth she is never alone.”
The poet also highlighted Biles’ prioritizing her mental health over winning a medal at the Tokyo Olympics and her courage for testifying about the sexual abuse she suffered in front of Congress.
“Simone is a fighter, on fire, a survivor, speaking not a solo, but as part of a choir, raising up the woman beside her,” preached Gorman. “From the very start, with everything, she brings her humanity, her humility, her hope. This above all is what makes Simone the GOAT.
Biles was surprised by the original poem dedicated to her and also honored by the gesture.
“@simonebilesAKA 🐐 needs no introduction but here are a few words about how much I love this powerhouse of a woman. Repost @instylemagazine @amandascgorman presented @simonebiles with the Original Award and surprised us all with an an original poem she penned in honor of the Olympic athlete, titled “The Greatest.” #linkinbio to watch the full poem ❤️ #instyleawards.”
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Biles is on the cover of ESSENCE for the Nov./Dec. issue, and the champion discussed her decision to prioritize her mental health during the Olympics in the magazine and use her voice.
Biles decided not to compete after experiencing the twisties, which opened the door for her teammate Suni Lee, the first Hmong-American to win a gold medal in the sport at the Games. Biles cheered on her teammate from the sidelines as she won her gold medal.
“I definitely knew any stand I took would be a little bit bigger than itself,” said Biles. “At the end of the day, we’re humans. We’re not just athletes. We’re not just here for entertainment….I feel content with what I did and how I made the decision.”
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As for Gorman, she wrote a book called “Call Us What We Carry.” The book of poetry will be released on Dec. 7.
