Simone Biles' Husband Nearly Robbed in Milan During Winter Olympics

NFL player Jonathan Owens says he was prepared after seeing TikTok videos about protecting purchases.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Simone Biles' husband, Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens, says he was nearly robbed while shopping in Milan, Italy during the 2026 Winter Olympics. Owens shared on social media that someone tried to snatch his shopping bag, but he was able to hold onto it thanks to tips he learned from TikTok videos about protecting purchases.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the security challenges that high-profile athletes and their families can face when attending major sporting events in foreign cities. It also demonstrates the importance of being vigilant and taking precautions to protect oneself from potential theft or crime.

The details

Owens said the would-be thief "didn't have much of a shot" at getting the bag away from him, as he had it tied around his hand. Owens added that the person "wasn't fast at all" and took off running once they realized Owens had turned around.

  • On Sunday, February 15, 2026, Owens shared the incident on X (formerly Twitter).

The players

Jonathan Owens

A safety for the Chicago Bears who is married to Olympic gymnast Simone Biles.

Simone Biles

A seven-time Olympic gold medalist in gymnastics who is attending the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan with her husband.

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What they’re saying

“Not somebody just tried to snatch my shopping bag in Milan, force of habit i had it tied around my hand so he couldn't get it and took off running immediately....but still crazy.”

— Jonathan Owens (X (formerly Twitter)

“Honestly i know right, but it was no way he could get it off my hand, I've seen too many TikTok's of that happening so i was prepared.”

— Jonathan Owens (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

Owens and Biles are continuing to enjoy their time at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for high-profile athletes and their families to remain vigilant and take precautions when traveling to major events, even in host cities. Owens' preparedness, thanks to TikTok tips, likely prevented a more serious incident.