Simone Biles captivated her fans one last time at the Paris Olympics on Monday, potentially marking the end of her illustrious career. With three gold medals, a silver, and a deeply devoted fan base, Biles has left an indelible mark on the world of gymnastics.
Biles’ supporters, who have followed her groundbreaking journey, celebrated her perseverance and courage. “All the trials and tribulations she’s gone through, to be able to witness maybe that last performance here at the Olympics, it’s pretty amazing,” said Katie Waege from Green Bay, Wisconsin.
After withdrawing from the Tokyo Games three years ago due to a mental block known as the “twisties,” Biles took a two-year hiatus to focus on her mental health. Her return to the sport, marked by happiness and health, led her to qualify for a third Olympics, where she increased her total medal count to 11, with seven golds.
The Bercy Arena in Paris was a hub of excitement, drawing countless celebrities and diehard fans eager to witness Biles’ greatness over her six days of competition. “We wanted to witness it in person,” said Rachel Redmond from Washington DC. “To be in the same space as her and everybody else instead of stuck to the TV.”
Beyond her remarkable athletic achievements, Biles has been a vocal advocate for mental health, openly discussing her struggles and encouraging others to seek help when needed. Her bravery in addressing these issues has sparked a broader conversation and inspired many.
While Biles has not ruled out the possibility of competing at the Los Angeles Games in 2028 when she will be 31, her fans feel deeply grateful for her contributions to the sport and her role as a positive ambassador. “I would just say Simone, we want to thank you for being a good ambassador for women, for women’s sports, for young girls and for people who struggle,” Waege expressed. “That perseverance has been amazing. Thank you for doing the best you can every day.”
If Monday indeed marks the end of Simone Biles’ Olympic journey, her fans are left more than satisfied, cherishing the memories of her performances and the lasting impact she has had on the sport and beyond.
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