Simone Biles, one of the most celebrated and iconic figures in gymnastics, has announced her retirement at the age of 27, following her impressive performance at the Paris Olympics, where she secured yet another gold medal.
The news of her retirement comes as a surprise to many, given her dominance in the sport for over a decade. Biles, who has become synonymous with excellence in gymnastics, leaves behind an unmatched legacy in the sport, having redefined what it means to be an athlete in her field.
Biles’ retirement marks the end of an era in gymnastics. With a total of 32 Olympic and World Championship medals, she holds the title as the most decorated gymnast in American history, a testament to her consistent brilliance, dedication, and skill.
Her routines, characterized by extraordinary difficulty and executed with precision, have pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible in the sport. She has performed skills that no other gymnast has dared to attempt, with several named after her in the gymnastics code of points, forever etching her name into the fabric of the sport.

 

Throughout her career, Biles has been celebrated not just for her physical abilities but for her mental toughness. Competing on the world stage comes with immense pressure, and Biles has shown time and again that she thrives in high-stakes environments.
However, during the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, she famously chose to withdraw from several events, citing struggles with her mental health and the “twisties,” a dangerous condition in which gymnasts lose their sense of spatial awareness mid-air.
This decision sparked a global conversation about mental health in sports, with Biles receiving both widespread support and some criticism. Her decision to prioritize her well-being over competing highlighted the immense pressures athletes face and underscored the importance of mental health.

 

Her journey, however, has not been without its challenges. Biles has openly discussed her experiences with abuse, having been one of the many victims of former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar.

Her courage in coming forward and speaking out against the systemic failures of the organizations that were supposed to protect her and her teammates has made her a powerful advocate for justice and change in the sport.
Biles has used her platform to demand accountability from USA Gymnastics and other governing bodies, calling for better protections for athletes and a safer environment for future generations.

In addition to her athletic achievements, Biles has become a role model for millions, particularly young athletes, showing that success and self-care are not mutually
exclusive. Her influence extends far beyond the gymnastics arena.