Mandarin Oriental has appointed Simone Biles as its first-ever Global Wellness Ambassador, marking a strategic move by the luxury hotel group to position itself as a leading authority in modern, holistic wellbeing.
Biles, widely recognized as the most decorated gymnast in history with 11 Olympic medals and 30 World Championship medals, will work closely with the brand’s Wellness Board and its global network of specialists in movement, meditation, nutrition, sleep and lifestyle performance. The long-term collaboration signals a shift beyond traditional celebrity endorsements toward a deeper, purpose-driven partnership centered on integrated physical and mental health.
The appointment reflects Mandarin Oriental’s view that wellness extends far beyond spa treatments or fitness facilities. Instead, the brand emphasizes a comprehensive approach that integrates physical strength, emotional resilience, recovery and balance. Biles, who has publicly championed mental health alongside athletic excellence, embodies that philosophy.
“I’m excited to partner with Mandarin Oriental because we share the same belief that wellness is about more than physical performance – it’s about taking care of your whole self,” Biles said, highlighting the importance of recovery and mental wellbeing throughout her career.
A Broader Vision for Luxury Wellbeing
Biles made her official debut in the role at Mandarin Oriental, Milan, during her first visit to the city as an international sports fan. To commemorate the partnership, the Milan property introduced two limited-time experiences inspired by her approach to strength and balance.
The “Double-Double Glow” spa treatment combines targeted massage techniques with hot and cold stone therapy and advanced skincare elements designed to support muscle recovery and skin revitalization. A separate culinary creation, the “Champion Chip” cookie, reflects a balanced perspective on nourishment and enjoyment.
However, the collaboration extends well beyond individual property activations. Biles will contribute insights to help shape future wellness programming across Mandarin Oriental’s global portfolio. The brand plans to integrate her perspective into storytelling campaigns and innovative wellness initiatives aligned with its evolving strategy.
Mandarin Oriental executives describe the partnership as a new era in how the group engages with global talent. Rather than a short-term marketing campaign, the ambassador role is intended to reinforce long-term brand positioning around holistic wellbeing.
As part of the collaboration, Biles and Mandarin Oriental will also support Laureus Sport for Good, a charitable organization focused on using sport to create opportunities for young people worldwide. The initiative aligns with both the athlete’s advocacy and the brand’s commitment to community impact.
With 45 hotels, 15 residences and dozens of additional projects in development, Mandarin Oriental is placing wellness at the center of its next growth phase. By appointing Biles, the group is signaling that luxury hospitality’s future may increasingly be defined not only by design and service, but by integrated wellbeing experiences that resonate beyond the stay itself.
