Simone Biles, a highly acclaimed athlete from the US, has chosen to step back from the Olympic gymnastics finals after her first vault performance on Tuesday.
Despite Biles’ absence, the three remaining gymnasts on the women’s team carried on with their routines. Biles showed her support by being present to cheer them on. The team ultimately secured the second spot, with Russia taking the lead and Great Britain finishing third.
Expressing her feelings, Biles shared, “I no longer have the same level of confidence in myself as before. I am struggling with a lack of trust and enjoyment in gymnastics. Although I wanted these Olympic Games to be for my own fulfillment, I felt pressured to perform for others. It saddens me that the joy of doing what I love has been overshadowed by external expectations.”
Before withdrawing from the event, Biles had already qualified for six Olympic finals. She mentioned that her coaches fully supported her decision. Biles hopes that by speaking out about her mental health challenges, she can make a more significant impact on the world of sports than by winning multiple gold medals.
Furthermore, Biles has sought counseling following the revelations of abuse by US gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar.
