SZA shares she 'used to be a gymnast' proving it with splits and handstands to idol Simone Biles

SZA was recently awarded the Hal David Starlight Award at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 2024 Induction and Awards Gala.


Pop Culture & Art July 02, 2024
Courtesy: Reuters

Before achieving Grammy-winning success, SZA aspired to be a gymnast.

In an NBC Sports interview released on July 1, the 34-year-old "Saturn" singer met with Olympic champion Simone Biles ahead of the 2024 Summer Games in Paris and revealed she “used to be a gymnast” before she transitioned to a music career.

“I was nowhere near as cool as you,” SZA said to the 27-year-old in the video, called "When SZA Met Simone — Part 1." “When it was clear to me that I wasn’t gonna be a national gymnast, I was like 'Okay, let me see what I can do.' "

SZA shared that she viewed singing as her "hidden talent" and felt she needed something to be competitive in.

She also took the opportunity to commend Biles for her exceptional skills, saying, “It’s [been] my dream to talk to you.” SZA told Biles, “You’re like my wildest dream. I have never seen anything like you — no one has.”

The two then participated in a friendly handstand competition, showcasing their gymnastic abilities.

“She’s going to knock me over,” Biles joked during the competition, which ended with the singer claiming victory.

SZA posted the video of their competition on her Instagram, expressing, “SO honored to hang out with you, @Simonebiles! 🥹🤸🏾‍♀️🐐 THIS FELT LIKE A FEVER DREAM.”

While SZA may not be excelling in gymnastics now, she has received critical acclaim for her music. Most recently, she was awarded the Hal David Starlight Award at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 2024 Induction and Awards Gala on June 13.

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