Simone Biles and Dominique Dawes have had a profound impact on American gymnastics, breaking barriers and inspiring generations of athletes.
Dawes became the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold medal in gymnastics, setting a precedent for greater diversity in the sport.
Biles is widely recognized as the greatest gymnast of all time, with record-breaking Olympic and World Championship performances, redefining gymnastics with her skills.
Both athletes faced and overcame challenges related to racial stereotypes, lack of representation, and systemic hurdles in a predominantly white sport.
Dawes has championed athlete mental health and safer training environments, while Biles made headlines for prioritizing her well-being at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Beyond their athletic accomplishments, Biles and Dawes have become advocates for inclusivity, diversity, and reforms in gymnastics and broader sports institutions.
Their groundbreaking achievements continue to shape the future of gymnastics, empowering young Black athletes to pursue their dreams with confidence.