My first gold medal, at my first Olympics, is kind of a surprise to me. I never thought I would be in this position, but I'm so blessed and honored to be on the medal stand.
I want to be an inspiration, but I would like there to be a day when it is not 'Simone the black swimmer.'
I am fortunate that I have two older brothers, and they have definitely helped me with being competitive just to keep up with them. We were always encouraged to try what we wanted to do. As long as we tried our hardest and did the best we could, it didn't matter what we did.
Swimming is a life-saving skill, so just the fact that the sport that I love can give so much back to other people - and inspire them to join something that they never thought they could do or go after their dreams - is something that is really special to me.
LeBron James, I just love watching him play. I love his work ethic and all the things he stands for.
I like to listen to Beyonce or any type of upbeat music when I am working out. Gospel music always motivates me.
