Olympic great Simone Biles revealed what will be the hardest thing for her when she retires from competitive gymnastics. “What I’ll miss most about gymnastics is the freedom with my body,” the seven-time gold medalist, 27, shared in the Netflix docuseries Simone Biles Rising Part II, premiering on Friday, October 25. Biles has been a prominent figure in gymnastics, known for her incredible talent and resilience, making her reflections on retirement particularly poignant.
In the docuseries, she discussed the unique challenges faced as she prepares for life after gymnastics. “The ability that I have in the gym is not normal, but I’ve had to work in other areas of my life, and that’s taught me the lessons and brought me to be who I am today,” Simone continued. Her journey has not only been about winning medals but also about personal growth and mental health.
Simone emphasized the mental hurdles involved in her sport, stating, “Mentally, rewiring your brain is so hard. And nobody really, truly looks at themselves in the mirror and is like, ‘I need to work on myself and I’m going to work on myself.’ Showing up is the hardest part.” Her candidness sheds light on the emotional aspects of being an elite athlete, highlighting that even champions face significant internal struggles.
Biography and Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Simone Arianne Biles |
| Date of Birth | March 14, 1997 |
| Nationality | American |
| Sport | Gymnastics |
| Olympic Medals | 7 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze |
Key Takeaways from Simone’s Journey
As she anticipates retirement, Simone Biles's reflections offer valuable lessons for both athletes and fans alike. Her journey illustrates that success is not just about accolades but also about personal integrity and mental health. Biles's story reminds us of the importance of self-acceptance and the pursuit of happiness beyond the competitive arena.
One of her most striking observations is about the nature of growth. She stated, “If I look back at my career, honestly, the thing I would be most proud of is staying true to myself and never swaying from that.” This commitment to authenticity resonates deeply, especially in a world where external pressures can often lead individuals away from their true selves.
Simone’s candid remarks about the mental challenges of being an elite athlete emphasize that showing up is often the hardest part. She articulated her struggle with mental health during competitions, particularly evident during the Tokyo Olympics when she experienced the "twisties," a mental block that affected her performance. Her openness about these issues has sparked a broader conversation on mental health in sports.
Simone's Future and Legacy
Looking ahead, Simone remains uncertain about her future in gymnastics. When asked about the possibility of competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, she stated, “Never say never.” This sentiment reflects her commitment to remain open to possibilities while acknowledging the challenges of aging in a sport that demands peak physical performance.
As she navigates this crossroads in her career, Biles's reflections are a reminder that life after sports can be just as fulfilling, even if it feels bittersweet. She shared, “Now we’re here, and I’m like, ‘Well, I did it.’” This statement embodies her incredible journey and the potential for new beginnings beyond competitive gymnastics.
In her closing thoughts, Simone pondered the next steps in her life following her illustrious career. “I felt a lot of relief, but now I’m like, ‘Oh my God.’ Like what happens in life now?” This question resonates with many, as transitioning from a highly structured environment to a more open-ended future can be daunting.
Through her journey, Simone Biles has not only redefined gymnastics but has also become a symbol of resilience, authenticity, and the importance of mental well-being in sports. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes to pursue their passions while remaining true to themselves.
