Simone Biles Reflects on Emotional Farewell to the Paris Olympics
ICARO Media Group
In an emotional farewell to the Paris Olympics, gymnastics superstar Simone Biles shared her bittersweet moments with her teammates after an incredible performance that earned her three gold medals and one silver. Biles, who referred to this year's competition as her "Redemption Tour," played a vital role in leading the American team to victory, securing a well-deserved team gold medal after their second-place finish in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
Closing her stint at the world's greatest competition, Biles admitted that the reality of it all had yet to sink in. In an interview on NBC's "TODAY," the 11-time Olympic medalist revealed that she was overcome with emotions upon returning to the village, breaking down in tears with her teammate, Jordan Chiles. Biles confessed, "I think I was just so full of emotion, and I finally released all of that. I was so proud, happy, and also bittersweet because the journey is over. It's so crazy how quickly it all happened. My third Olympics!"
Despite bidding farewell to the Paris Olympics, Biles hinted that her Olympic journey might not be over just yet. When asked about the possibility of participating in the 2028 Games in Los Angeles, she responded, "You know, you never say never. The next Olympics is on home turf. I'm just going to relax and see where life takes me."
During the interview, Biles took a moment to reflect on her remarkable career, acknowledging the pivotal role her parents played in her success. She expressed her gratitude for her parents, Ronald and Nellie Biles, who adopted her and her younger sister Adria when she was only six years old.
Biles appeared in the interview wearing a boot on her leg, revealing that she had suffered a calf injury during the Games. However, she reassured fans that it was merely a precautionary measure and that she would be resting to heal before the upcoming tour.
Known for her advocacy for mental health, Biles emphasized the importance of self-care during the competition. She disclosed that she continued her routine therapy sessions with her therapist throughout the entire process, finding comfort and confidence through this important aspect of her preparation.
After taking a two-year break from competing following the Tokyo Olympics, where she grappled with the "twisties" and faced emotional challenges, Biles has become a powerful advocate for mental health.
Looking ahead to her future beyond gymnastics, Biles shared her desire to start a family with her husband, Jonathan Owens, who supported her in Paris. She praised her husband's excitement and unwavering support, noting how he appreciated and recognized the immense dedication she had invested in her journey.
Ultimately, Biles aspires to be remembered for more than her gold medals and achievements. She hopes to be recognized as someone who loved the sport, had fun, and remained authentically herself throughout her career.
As Simone Biles closes this chapter of her Olympic journey, her impact on the world of gymnastics and her dedication to raising awareness about mental health will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.