Simone Biles has emerged as a leading figure in USA gymnastics, comparable to the iconic Mary Lou Retton of the 70s. While there have been other notable gymnasts, none have left as profound an impact as Biles. Her remarkable performances, particularly during the 2016 Rio Olympics, captivated audiences worldwide. However, her recent decision to withdraw from the Olympic team competition to prioritize her mental health has surprised many. The reality is, Simone Biles does not owe anyone a display of her talents; she has every right to prioritize her well-being.
Since the Olympic qualifiers, Biles has not performed at her usual exceptional level. Competing while concerned about catching Covid, despite being vaccinated, adds immense pressure. Furthermore, as a gymnast with unparalleled abilities, she faces jealousy and unfair scoring. Biles has expressed her awareness of the biases in scoring, which attempt to level the competitive field. “They don’t want the field to be too far apart. And that’s just something that’s on them. That’s not on me,” she told The New York Times earlier this year.
Imagine the mental strain she endures, performing complex routines knowing her talent is often undervalued. Why should she minimize her brilliance for the comfort of others? While we cannot know the exact reasons behind her need for a mental health break, it’s clear that these pressures weigh heavily on her.
In an interview with Mia Johnson in April, Biles shared that her commitment to gymnastics extends beyond her passion for the sport. She feels a responsibility to continue competing for the sake of holding USA Gymnastics accountable for the sexual abuse cases involving former team doctor Larry Nassar. “If there weren’t a remaining survivor in the sport they would’ve just brushed it to the side,” she remarked.
Biles stands alone as the only one among the women who reported Nassar’s abuse still actively competing. As the conversation surrounding this issue has faded, she feels a duty to keep it alive. “I think they’re just gonna try to hide it, sweep it under the rug,” she said. “Stuff doesn’t just blow over.”
Black women often feel a sense of obligation to the systems that oppress them, and the backlash against Biles is a stark example of this. Why is it acceptable for critics to tear her down for stepping back from a competition she didn’t have to enter? The scrutiny she faces is unjust, especially when compared to the unrealistic expectations placed upon athletes, particularly Black athletes who are often seen as mere performers rather than as individuals.
Athletes are expected to compete regardless of their mental or physical state, and this attitude is reinforced by a society that glorifies relentless hustle. When Biles opted out after a subpar vault, some compared her to Kerri Strug’s iconic 1996 performance, where she competed despite an injury. This comparison is flawed; Biles’ decision to prioritize her health over competition reflects wisdom and foresight, which should be applauded, not criticized.
Gymnastics is an incredibly dangerous sport, and the stakes are high. For Biles, even a minor misstep could lead to severe injury or worse. Mental fortitude is just as crucial as physical prowess, if not more so, in this demanding sport.
While the Olympics are still ongoing, and Biles may yet compete in individual events, her choice to step back should be respected. Only she knows what is best for herself. It’s easy for outsiders to claim what they would do in her position, but the reality is that none of us can truly understand her experience. So, let’s take a step back and allow her the space she needs. No matter the outcome, she will forever be regarded as the greatest of all time.
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Summary: Simone Biles, a leading figure in gymnastics, has faced criticism for prioritizing her mental health over competition. As the only active survivor of the Nassar abuse scandal, she feels a sense of duty to advocate for change in her sport. The pressures she endures highlight the unrealistic expectations placed on athletes, especially Black women. Ultimately, Biles’ decision to step back should be respected as she knows what is best for her well-being.
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