Jordan Chiles and Simone Biles share a deep bond as teammates and friends, but one topic has always remained off-limits between them—the Larry Nassar abuse scandal. In a recent interview, Chiles opened up about why she and Biles have never spoken about the horrific abuse that shook the gymnastics world and left lasting scars on many athletes.
Chiles and Biles have been close for years, training together and competing on the biggest stages of gymnastics. Their friendship has been a source of strength, especially during challenging moments in their careers. However, despite their closeness, they have never spoken about the abuse inflicted by former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar, who was convicted of sexually abusing hundreds of young athletes.
When asked about this in an interview, Chiles explained that avoiding the topic is not about ignoring the past but rather respecting each other’s healing process. We don’t have to talk about it to understand what we’ve been through, Chiles said. We just support each other in the best way we can.
For many survivors of abuse, discussing traumatic experiences can be emotionally overwhelming. Both Biles and Chiles have had to navigate their own paths to healing, and Chiles made it clear that she does not need to ask Biles about her pain to recognize its impact.
Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, has been vocal about her struggles, especially during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, when she withdrew from several events citing mental health concerns. She later revealed that dealing with the trauma of Nassar’s abuse was one of the factors affecting her well-being. Chiles, on the other hand, has chosen a more private approach, focusing on her career while offering quiet support to those around her.
Chiles emphasized that their bond goes beyond words. Sometimes, you don’t need to talk about something to know it’s there, she said. Instead of dwelling on past trauma, the two gymnasts have chosen to lift each other up, celebrating their successes and pushing each other to be better.
Their approach highlights an important aspect of healing—not everyone processes pain the same way, and true friendship means allowing each person to deal with their trauma in their own time.
Despite the dark cloud that Nassar’s crimes cast over USA Gymnastics, Chiles and Biles continue to inspire the next generation with their resilience and talent. Their silence on the matter is not about denial but about personal choice, and their friendship remains a powerful symbol of strength and support in the face of adversity.
