New Delhi, February 26 Seven-time Olympic gold-winning American gymnast Simone Biles has become a Laureus ambassador, joining a star-studded group that also includes Indian javelin throw icon Neeraj Chopra and former cricketer Yuvraj Singh, who won the World Cup.
Biles, the most decorated gymnast in the sport's history and a four-time winner of the Laureus Sportswoman of the Year Award, began her new role during a visit to Milan, where she toured Polisportiva Garegnano, a Laureus-supported gymnastics and multi-sport project.
The project provides opportunities for young people, particularly girls, to "develop confidence, build resilience, and acquire life skills through sport." During her visit, she spent time with the young athletes, offering encouragement and sharing her experiences.
"Polisportiva Garegnano is one of over 300 Laureus Sport for Good programmes that uses the power of sport to help young people overcome violence, discrimination, and inequality around the world," the Laureus academy stated in a press release.
Biles said Laureus has played a significant role in her journey for many years.
"I am honoured to support Laureus as I share the core idea that lies at the heart of everything Laureus does: that sport has the power to change the world.
"I have seen this power in action – how sport can open doors, build confidence, and help young people feel seen and supported.
Biles and her husband, Jonathan Owens of the NFL's Chicago Bears, were in Italy to attend the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games, and both were present at Polisportiva Garegnano.
Nadia Comaneci, a member of the Laureus Academy, said: "Simone is an extraordinary athlete and an extraordinary person. She represents the very pinnacle of gymnastics, and beyond her athletic brilliance, she is a powerful force for positive change."