A New Perspective on the Tokyo Olympics
Simone Biles, one of the most celebrated gymnasts in history, has opened up about her experience at the Tokyo Olympics. It was not a failure that led her to step back from competition, but rather an invisible pressure that she had to confront. This moment marked a significant turning point in her career and her understanding of what it means to compete.
During an interview with CNN Sports host Amanda Davies at the Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid, Biles reflected on how she now views what happened in Tokyo. She described it as “a real pivotal moment” for her, highlighting the importance of the global conversation around mental health that followed.
“I feel like it showed realness to me because everyone thought I was a robot. She’s not real. But it’s just like down to the core, I’m like, ‘Guys, I am real.’ There’s rawness to it,” she said.
This experience also led Biles to seek therapy, which she credits as being crucial for her well-being. “It got me the therapy that I deserved, and I’m still currently in therapy. And now I look at it as being courageous and not so much a weakness, which before that was not the case,” she added.
A Legacy of Excellence
With 7 Olympic medals, including 4 golds across vault, floor exercise, balance beam, and team events, Simone Biles has built an impressive legacy. Her achievements at the World Championships are equally remarkable, with over 30 medals in events such as floor exercise, all-around, and vault. This record makes her the most decorated gymnast in history.
At the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Biles stepped back from multiple events after experiencing the “twisties,” a mental block that affected her awareness during routines. This moment became one of the most talked-about in her career, sparking discussions about the pressures athletes face.
The Road to the 2028 Olympics
Biles has spoken about the possibility of returning to the Olympic stage in Los Angeles 2028. During the same interview with Amanda Davies, she shared her thoughts on the future of her career.
“I feel like we’re still at a 50-50,” she said. “Mental health plays a big role in it because, physically, my coaches will get me in shape. I can get myself in shape. We believe in that ability. We’re really thankful that I’m still healthy. But mental is a huge thing, and it’s a lot of dedication to that, because the road’s not easy. It’s long, but it’s still work.”
Currently, Biles is taking a break from gymnastics after the 2024 Paris Olympics to focus on recovery. However, questions remain about her future in the sport. Will she make a comeback for the 2028 Olympics, or is this the end of her journey in gymnastics?
