Biles announced her shock withdrawal from the women’s gymnastics team final at the Tokyo Olympics, citing mental health problems. The announcement was truly a bolt from the blue. Ahead of the event, the gymnast gave multiple interviews where she revealed that she was working hard for the Olympics.
Biles’ withdrawal from the Olympics came as an eye-opener for many. Arguably the world’s best gymnast struggling with mental health problems started a long overdue conversation about the pressure on athletes.
Months ahead of the competition, Biles had said that she was working tirelessly for the Summer Games. She revealed her hectic training schedule during an interview with Jimmy Fallon.
Speaking about her preparations for the event, Simone Biles revealed that she was following a six-day training schedule and said:
During the interview, Biles also spoke about her then-upcoming docuseries Simone vs Herself. She said:
Simone Biles on the possibility of competing at the Paris Olympics
At only 25, Simone Biles can make a strong comeback at the Paris Olympics. The athlete remains one of the most popular names in the sport. While Biles is yet to announce her next move, she has remained active. Biles continues to give regular drug tests as per the FIG (Federal International De Gymnastique) policy.
Although no confirmation has come from her side, Simone Biles recently hinted at a possible return to the Olympics. In a conversation with Extra TV’s Cheslie Kryst in November of 2021, the gymnast pondered her future.
Biles revealed that she would compete for herself if she did indeed decide to participate and told Cheslie Kryst:
Biles went on to state that she was ready to spend time ‘as a girlfriend, a daughter, a dog mom’ after she calls time on her career.
It is pertinent to note that Simone Biles’ seven Olympic medals make her the most decorated American gymnast. She most recently received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, becoming the youngest recipient of the prestigious award.
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