Simone Biles, one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, has made a triumphant return to the world of competitive gymnastics. After a shocking withdrawal from the Tokyo Olympics due to a struggle with the twisties and her mental health, Biles has overcome adversity and is back to do what she loves.
At a Mexican restaurant earlier this year, over dinner and margaritas, Biles and her longtime coach Cecile Landi had a conversation that solidified her decision to return to gymnastics. It wasn’t about more medals or records for Biles; she already has an impressive collection of seven Olympic medals and 25 world championship medals. Instead, she simply wanted to give herself a chance to compete again, on her own terms.
Now 26 years old and recently married to Green Bay Packers safety Jonathan Owens, Biles took her first major step towards a third Olympics by competing in the Core Classic at Now Arena in suburban Chicago. During the podium training, she showcased her dynamic skills, tumbling, leaping, and twisting without incident. The small crowd erupted in applause, particularly for her vaults, as Biles responded with her trademark megawatt smile.
Biles’ return to the sport she reshaped and redefined is not just a gift to the gymnastics community; it’s a gift to herself. As an adult with changed priorities, she now competes for the joy of the sport, unburdened by outside pressures. Alicia Sacramone Quinn, a 10-time world medalist and member of USA Gymnastics‘ leadership group, explains that returning with more knowledge and self-insight can make the experience easier and more enjoyable.
Although she didn’t perform her unique triple-twisting, double backflip during her floor exercise routine, Biles appeared healthy and fearless. Her decision was strategy-based, considering the judges’ recent harshness towards flawed landings. Instead, she opted to execute moves that were relatively easier, focusing on sticking the landing for maximum reward.
Her fear is gone, evident in her performance during the training camp a few weeks ago. Biles came through with top scores, and any bobbles or mistakes observed during the recent training were attributed to rustiness rather than fear. Biles’ determination to be back is unwavering, and as long as she declares herself ready, her coaches will continue to support her.
One of Biles’ fellow gymnasts, Tokyo floor exercise gold medalist Jade Carey, expresses no surprise at her return and is thrilled to see her competing again. Carey, who is also making her comeback to elite competition after two seasons at Oregon State, finds Biles’ return inspiring after everything she has been through.
Sunisa Lee, the Tokyo all-around gold medalist, is equally amazed by Biles’ abilities, noting that it doesn’t even look like she took a year off. Lee finds competing alongside Biles to be an incredible experience and draws inspiration from Biles’ groundbreaking achievements.
Biles’ return was shrouded in secrecy until late May when it was leaked during a podcast with former Notre Dame and Cleveland Browns quarterback Brady Quinn. Although unintended, the news delighted fans and lifted the curtain on Biles’ comeback.
Simone Biles’ return is truly on her own terms. It is an opportunity for her to enhance an already remarkable legacy, not only for her outstanding athletic achievements but also for her impact in opening conversations about athletes’ mental health. With her return, she continues to inspire others and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing well-being over external expectations.
As Biles takes this significant step towards the U.S. Championships and a potential spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics, her return is celebrated as a remarkable event for gymnastics. The sport welcomes back its queen, eager to witness her redefine what is possible once again.
