The greatness of athletes such as Tom Brady is unquestioned. It's hard to express specifically, but their dominance and ability to shine well above the rest of the competition is part of what allows them to stand out when comparing to other historical greats. However, one clear-cut instance shows absolute class in a given craft. When another world-class athlete comes to watch a performance and is visibly stunned, giving a genuine reaction like a regular fan, that's when a certain level has been reached, worthy of legacy-lasting conversations.
Cut to another spectacular performance by Simone Biles. The acrobatics and athletic feats are impossible to not be in awe of. So when the quarterback is seen in Paris, rooting, and cheering as she cruises to another gold medal, this isn't something to overlook. The long-time New England Patriots quarterback is known for his preparation and dedication.
At that moment, of him visibly showing his support, fans could see the expression of someone being impressed by more than the routine itself. It was an acknowledgment of years of pushing through, rehabbing injuries, and going that extra step every time someone else would have typically chosen to quit.
Differences between Tom Brady and Simone Biles
Both have amassed massive amounts of sweat equity as individuals. They were willing to go far beyond where most athletes combined are willing to venture. For Biles in her dedicated sport, it meant specializing and treating her routines as a professional from an early age. The undeniable talent showcased itself early on.
Her struggles, through injury and otherwise, are well documented at this point. But due to the nature of the timeline for gymnasts, she needed to be great early, and to continue to show the dominant explosive power for as long as she has will make her undoubtedly one of the best to ever do it.
Compare that to Brady. The QB is someone who never showed natural ability in terms of prototypical features, expected of the sport. Wasn't a starter in college, late-round pick, backup in the NFL; the persistence blossomed into what is now one of the great careers. But the mentality, and overcoming obstacles are exactly the same.
During the now-captured Olympic moment, the culmination of what was needed to reach an elite stage was instantly recognized. Most view the Ohio native as one of the best gymnasts ever. Fellow all-time great Tom Brady appreciated her display, that much more than the rest of the onlookers. His viral reaction is proof of just how spectacular both are, and what it truly takes, in the pursuit of excellence.