Simone Biles is unsure of her return to the Tokyo Olympics.
The 24-year-old withdrew in the gymnastics team all-around event on Tuesday, citing a “medical issue” according to an official USA Gymnastics statement. However, it was not a physical injury that hindered Biles’ performance, but mental health, stating the pressure to be successful and stress of being the greatest gymnast in history was too difficult to combat.
“Physically she is fine,” Biles’ coach told NBC. “But she is done for tonight.”
In the vault stage of the team event, Biles struggled with her landing, which cost Team USA points as they faced difficult competition in the Russian Olympic Committee. Afterward, she left the floor with her trainer and withdrew from the event as a whole.
Official statement: “Simone Biles has withdrawn from the team final competition due to a medical issue. She will be assessed daily to determine medical clearance for future competitions.”
Thinking of you, Simone! pic.twitter.com/QA1GYHwWTv
— USA Gymnastics (@USAGym) July 27, 2021
Though Biles’ teammates Jordan Chiles, Grace McCallum and Sunisa Lee stepped up to the plate to perform their best, they fell short of being champions for the third consecutive Olympics. The Russian Olympic Committee won the gold medal, with the United States
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