Simone Biles, the iconic gymnast who has cemented her legacy as one of the greatest in her sport, is currently at a crossroads regarding her future in competitive gymnastics. At only 28 years old, Biles has garnered remarkable accolades throughout her career, including an impressive tally of three gold medals and a silver from the Paris 2024 Olympics. These outstanding performances resulted in her being honored as the Sportswoman of the Year at the 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards, further solidifying her place in sports history.
Despite these accolades, Biles faces a momentous decision about participating in the 2028 Olympics set to take place in Los Angeles, California. This event holds a special significance as it will be hosted on home soil, offering a unique opportunity for athletes to compete in front of family, friends, and fans. However, Biles is currently prioritizing her well-being, indicating that her immediate focus is on personal healing—both physically and mentally.
In her remarks, Biles underscored the physical toll that Olympic competition can impose on an athlete’s body. “Right now, I am still focusing on healing physically and mentally because the Olympics takes a toll on your body,” she stated, highlighting the rigorous demands of training and competition. The road to the Olympics is far from straightforward; it is an emotional and physical journey that often spans four years, not simply a one-year commitment as many might believe.
Biles has articulated her need for personal time, sharing, “I haven’t got that much time because I’ve sacrificed so much to hang out with my family, my friends, my husband, and stuff like that.” This declaration speaks volumes about the level of personal sacrifice athletes often make for their sport. It also sheds light on her dedication to enjoying life beyond the gymnastics mat, emphasizing her current desire to savor the moments that come with being away from the pressures of competition.
While the prospect of returning to competition is thrilling, Biles is pragmatic, stating, “So I am really enjoying my time off before I decide if I want to go back to the gym and compete.” This careful consideration reflects her understanding that any decision about the Olympics must be made with intense contemplation of her physical readiness and mental state.
In discussing the alignment of the 2028 Olympics with her journey, Biles expressed mixed feelings. “It is in LA, it’s back in the States, which is so exciting. But if I am going to compete again, I’m not so sure,” she confessed. This uncertainty signifies the weight of her decision, recognizing both her love for the sport and the desire for balance in her life.
In another facet of her reflections, Biles also expressed admiration for fellow gymnast Rebeca Andrade, who has faced her own challenges with three ACL tears in her athletic career. Biles remarked on Andrade’s resilience, stating, “Rebeca is an amazing, extraordinary athlete. What she has overcome is truly inspiring.” This acknowledgment not only illustrates the camaraderie among elite athletes but also highlights the mutual respect that fosters competitive excellence.
Regarding Andrade, Biles said, “I always loved competing against her because she really pushes me to be my best every time I compete.” The sense of healthy competition between them and their performances are instrumental in both athletes’ growth. Despite Andrade’s struggles with injuries, Biles is confident, stating she believes Andrade would have an equal number of accolades, had she not been hindered by her injuries. “I am excited to be her competitor and her friend,” Biles concluded, encapsulating the spirit of sportsmanship that defines her character.
As the gymnastics world looks ahead to the 2028 Olympics, Biles’s reflections on her well-being, competitive spirit, and her support for fellow athletes paint a picture of a thoughtful competitor contemplating her next steps, whether on the Olympic stage or cheering from the stands.
