Simone Biles Doesn’t Owe Anyone a Performance—She Doesn’t Owe Anyone Anything

Simone Biles has emerged as the iconic figure in USA gymnastics, a status not held by anyone since Mary Lou Retton in the 70s. While there have been other notable gymnasts since then, none have had the same profound impact as Biles. She captivated the world during the 2016 Rio Olympics and has remained in the limelight since. Her extraordinary skill level allows her to perform routines that seem to defy gravity, making her fame seem almost superhuman. Therefore, her choice to withdraw from the Olympic team competition to prioritize her mental health has taken many by surprise. Yet, it’s crucial to recognize that Simone Biles doesn’t owe anyone her performance; she has every right to safeguard her well-being.

Throughout the Olympic qualifiers, Biles has not performed at her usual high standard, likely due to the stress of the ongoing pandemic. While she may be vaccinated, that concern still lingers. Moreover, the pressure to maintain excellence amidst unfair scoring practices—where her moves are rated lower to level the playing field—adds to her struggle. Biles herself has noted, “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,” as reported by The New York Times.

Imagine the mental strain of executing complex routines on such a grand stage, all while knowing her talent might not be fully acknowledged. Why should she diminish her brilliance to make others feel better about their abilities? The reasons behind her need for a mental health break are undoubtedly complex, but the pressure she faces is significant.

In an interview with a well-known anchor, Biles explained that part of her motivation to continue competing is tied to holding USA Gymnastics accountable for investigating the sexual abuse scandal 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 stated. Of all the women who reported the abuse, she remains the only one still competing, indicating her commitment to keeping the issue alive even when no one asked her to.

The treatment that Biles faces is emblematic of a larger issue, particularly for Black women who often feel a duty to the very systems that harm them. The criticism she receives for prioritizing her mental health is unjust, especially when some feel entitled to her performances.

Biles is a hero—not for her medals but for recognizing her limits and setting boundaries. The backlash she faces reveals a troubling expectation that athletes must compete regardless of their mental state. In American society, there’s a pervasive “keep pushing” mentality that equates success with relentless exertion.

Some have compared her situation to Kerri Strug’s iconic vault in 1996, where Strug performed despite an injury. This misguided comparison only serves to undermine Biles’ choice to prioritize her health. Competing while injured is not heroic; it’s dangerous. Biles understands the risks associated with gymnastics, where any misstep could lead to severe injury or worse. Mental clarity is just as essential as physical strength in this sport.

While the Olympics are still ongoing, Biles may choose to participate in individual events. Regardless of her decisions, only she knows what is best for her. It’s easy for spectators to speculate about what they would do in her position, but they will never truly understand her experience. Let’s respect her choices and recognize her as the greatest of all time, no matter what.

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In summary, Simone Biles’s decision to prioritize her mental health over competition is a powerful statement about self-care and boundaries in sports. Despite the backlash, she stands as a testament to the importance of mental strength alongside physical prowess.

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