'She just wants attention': Simone Biles faces unexpected NFL backlash as feud with Riley Gaines fuels fan criticism
NFL
's 'it couple,' Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens are now facing unexpected backlash. From viral sideline moments to social media criticism, fans have turned on Biles amid controversy.
Her public feud with Riley Gaines may be fueling the fallout as her NFL support takes a surprising hit.
From viral sideline sweetheart to polarizing figure on Bears turf
Not long ago, Simone Biles was hailed as the gold standard of NFL WAGs (wives and girlfriends), captivating fans with her heartfelt sideline moments alongside husband Jonathan Owens, now a Chicago Bears safety. In December 2024, she was praised for her warm embrace and playful handshake with Owens before a Bears game, a viral moment that had fans dubbing them the 'real MVP couple,' even above the media-favorite Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce.
But fast forward to the Bears' Family Fest on August 3, 2025, and the narrative around Biles has taken a sharp turn. Although the couple shared another affectionate pregame interaction, the public reaction was jarringly different. Fans who once celebrated Biles turned hostile, criticizing everything from her fashion choices to her very presence. One commenter asked, 'She hasn't been fully canceled yet?' while another bluntly called her 'overrated as a human being.
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Fan resentment grows as feud with Riley Gaines resurfaces
The sudden shift in public sentiment may trace back to Biles' public clash with Riley Gaines, a former NCAA swimmer and outspoken conservative voice on women's sports. The feud, which played out on social media and cable networks, polarized audiences and cast Biles in a political spotlight she hadn't occupied before. Now, some NFL fans appear to be taking sides—against her.
While there's no concrete evidence that her dispute with Gaines triggered the backlash at Family Fest, it seems to have intensified the public's scrutiny.
Critics even mocked her for not wearing Bears gear, suggesting she was stealing the spotlight. 'She's not even a real fan,' one user joked, pointing out her neutral outfit.
From America's sweetheart to NFL target
Simone Biles may be used to pressure from years of elite competition, but this type of fan revolt marks new territory. The internet has turned on the Olympic icon with alarming speed—transforming her from NFL darling to divisive figure. As one social media user harshly put it, 'She used to represent strength. Now she just wants attention.'
Also Read:
'Ivanka is prettier than Gisele': Donald Trump mocked Tom Brady and made eyebrow-raising comments about Gisele Bündchen
For Biles, the next few months could be a defining chapter—not in gymnastics, but in navigating a more unforgiving side of NFL fandom.
For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the
India vs England Test match
here.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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