Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, has revealed she is still undecided about whether she’ll compete in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. In a recent interview with CNN, the 29-year-old athlete expressed that the decision hinges not only on her physical readiness but also her mental health, a factor she has prioritized since her dramatic withdrawal from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
- Simone Biles is undecided about competing in the 2028 Olympics, citing a “50-50” chance.
- Mental health remains a pivotal factor in her decision, alongside her physical preparedness.
- Biles experienced a comeback in 2024, winning four medals at the Paris Olympics.
- The gymnast continues to champion the importance of mental health in elite sports.
- Regardless of her decision, Biles plans to support her fellow gymnasts in their Olympic journeys.
Simone Biles’ Journey: From Triumph to Uncertainty
Biles’ hesitation about pursuing another Olympic venture comes after an emotional rollercoaster of highs and lows in her career. At the Paris Olympics in 2024, she marked her triumphant return to the global stage, clinching gold medals in the team event, all-around, and vault, alongside a silver for floor exercise. The achievement was particularly significant after her withdrawal from the Tokyo Games in 2021 due to the “twisties,” a serious mental block that disconnects the body from the mind during routines.
“I feel like we’re still at a 50-50,” Biles said, acknowledging the pressure to make a decision soon. “It’s been almost half of 2026, so we’re going to have to make these decisions pretty quickly.” While her physical health and ability to train are not in question, Biles emphasized that mental health remains the cornerstone of her decision-making process.
The Weight of Mental Health in Elite Sports
Mental health has increasingly been a focal point in the world of elite sports, and Biles has become one of its most vocal advocates. Reflecting on her Tokyo Olympics experience, she candidly discussed the “twisties” on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast. “It’s just like your body, your brain opens up, you have no idea where you are,” she explained. “If I survive that, I don’t know how much else I can survive.” Her decision to step back from competing at the time was met with both support and scrutiny, but it marked a turning point in the conversation about athletes’ mental well-being.
Even after her successful return in Paris, Biles remains cautious about overextending herself. “Physically, my coaches will get me in shape [and] I will get myself in shape. We believe in that ability. We’re really thankful that I’m still healthy, but mental is a huge thing,” she told CNN.
Why L.A. 2028 Feels “Greedy” to Biles
While competing in her home country might seem like an enticing prospect, Biles admitted that the idea feels “greedy.” After so many years of dedication to gymnastics and multiple Olympic cycles, the road ahead requires significant sacrifice. “It’s a lot of dedication because the road’s not easy. It’s long, but it’s still work,” she shared.
For Biles, the decision isn’t solely about chasing medals but about balancing her personal well-being, career longevity, and the impact she wants to have on the sport. Her relationship with her teammates, including longtime friend Jordan Chiles, also plays a role. “It is truly a sisterhood,” Biles said in 2024. “We truly want everybody to do their best.”
What This Means for You
Simone Biles’ indecision about competing in the 2028 Olympics highlights the growing awareness of mental health in competitive environments. For athletes and non-athletes alike, her story reinforces the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing personal well-being over external pressures. Whether you’re navigating a demanding career, balancing family commitments, or pursuing a goal, Biles’ approach reminds us to listen to our bodies and minds.
If Biles does return to the Olympic stage, it will undoubtedly be with a renewed focus not just on performance but on holistic health. Her openness about struggles and triumphs makes her a role model for resilience, proving that victories are not solely defined by medals but by the courage to make decisions that align with personal values.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Simone Biles undecided about competing in 2028?
Biles has cited a “50-50” chance due to the mental and physical demands of preparing for another Olympic cycle. She emphasizes the importance of mental health in her decision-making.
What are the “twisties” that Biles experienced?
The “twisties” refer to a mental block where the brain and body lose connection during gymnastics routines, making it dangerous to perform complex moves.
How did Simone Biles perform at the 2024 Paris Olympics?
Biles won four medals, including three golds in the team event, all-around, and vault, as well as a silver for floor exercise, marking a successful comeback.
What role does mental health play in Biles’ decision?
Mental health is central to her decision. While she trusts her physical training, Biles emphasizes the emotional and psychological challenges of committing to another Olympic cycle.
Will Simone Biles support other gymnasts if she doesn’t compete?
Absolutely. Biles has expressed her intention to cheer on her teammates and maintain the “sisterhood” that defines their relationships.
