Simone Biles is reassuring Chicago Bears fans that her allegiance is now firmly with the orange and navy after facing backlash for sporting a Green Bay Packers jacket to support her husband, NFL safety Jonathan Owens. The Olympic gymnastics legend made waves last month when she attended a Bears preseason game wearing a Packers jacket, igniting a mini-controversy among Bears fans.
The 27-year-old gymnast addressed the situation when TMZ caught up with her in New York City on Thursday. When asked if she had acquired any Bears gear yet, Biles laughed and confidently replied, “I have plenty now! So don’t you worry, guys.”
Biles had found herself at the center of some good-natured but heated criticism from Bears fans after she showed up to Soldier Field in the Packers-themed jacket, which prominently featured black-and-white images of her husband during his time with the Wisconsin team, along with the Packers logo on the shoulder. This was particularly notable because the Packers and Bears are long-standing NFC North archrivals.
The jacket in question was part of an otherwise chic ensemble that included a black romper, a Prada bucket hat, black-and-white sneakers, a Balenciaga purse, and reflective sunglasses. Biles shared a series of photos from the game, including one of her planting a kiss on Owens’ cheek, captioning her post with a nod to the Bears’ motto: “‘bear down.'”
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Despite the sweet sentiment and the show of support for her husband, the Packers logo on her jacket didn’t sit well with some Bears fans. One fan commented, “It’s ridiculously unaware of your surroundings and insulting to her husband,” while another joked, “With all due respect, Simone Biles gotta throw that jacket in the trash ASAP.” Another follower suggested she upgrade to a Bears version of the jacket.
The backlash didn’t seem to faze Biles, who had just returned from winning three gold medals at the Paris Olympics when she attended the game. She quickly made it clear that her wardrobe would be appropriately adjusted for the upcoming Bears season, letting fans know she’s all in on her husband’s new team.
Jonathan Owens who played for the Packers during the 2023 season, signed a two-year contract with the Bears in the offseason. His move from Green Bay to Chicago marked a new chapter in his NFL career, and naturally, Biles has been there to support him every step of the way. The couple, who tied the knot in April 2023, have been each other’s biggest cheerleaders, with Biles attending many of Owens’ games, and Owens frequently supporting Biles at her gymnastics competitions.
This isn’t the first time the power couple has dealt with public scrutiny. Owens previously faced some backlash after playfully referring to himself as “the catch” in their relationship, a remark that sparked debate on social media. However, like the Packers jacket situation, they both shrugged off the criticism with humor and grace.
With the Bears season now underway, Biles has fully embraced her new role as a supporter of the team, and Bears fans can expect to see her decked out in their colors as she cheers on her husband at Soldier Field.
Despite the brief controversy, Biles has once again shown her ability to handle public pressure with charm, and her playful response ensures that she’s now on the right side of Chicago’s passionate fanbase.
