@simonebiles/Instagram
September 7, 2021, 11:39 am
Simone Biles continues to be an inspiration, reflecting on her experience at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics with absolutely no regrets.
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The decorated gymnast, who withdrew from the Olympics to take care of her mental health, posted a picture of her medals on Instagram with a message aimed towards critics.
“I can’t hear you over my 7 Olympic medals which tied me for the most decorated gymnast EVER as well as most decorated American gymnast,” she wrote.
“Definitely not the way I planned the Olympics going but I wouldn’t change anything for the world. I’m proud of myself and the career I’ve had thus far. this Olympics doesn’t erase the past accomplishments I’ve achieved nor does it define who I am as an athlete.”
“I’ve pushed through so much the past couple years, the word quitter is not in my vocabulary,” Biles posted.
Biles drew praise for her decision to withdraw in order to take care of herself, igniting a conversation about how athletes, especially women of color, are expected to sacrifice their bodies and minds for their sport. Many folks were inspired by Biles’ actions, seeing the power of a decorated athlete prioritizing her health over a sport that often demands great bodily injury as well as takes a toll emotionally.
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Biles said that a mental block was causing her to have the “twisties” and added that she feared she could hurt herself by competing. Biles said her bronze in balance beam was an accomplishment that “meant more than all the golds.”
*First Published: September 7, 2021, 11:39 am
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