Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast of all time, has faced many challenges in her illustrious career, but none as unexpected as COVID-19. The pandemic not only postponed the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but it also thrust Biles into a period of introspection, where her mental health became as much of a focus as her training regimen.
The pandemic disrupted athletes worldwide, but for Biles, it was more than just a delay in competition — it was a moment that forced her to slow down. “COVID-19 gave me time to reflect, which is something I didn’t realize I needed,” Biles admitted in a recent interview. After years of intense training schedules, the enforced pause allowed her to reconnect with herself and evaluate her priorities.
During the pandemic, Biles was also candid about her struggles with anxiety and the immense pressure placed on her as the face of U.S. gymnastics. The postponement of the Olympics, in particular, took a toll on her mental well-being. “It was hard not knowing when — or if — the Games would happen,” she confessed. The uncertainty led to many sleepless nights and the overwhelming sense that the world was watching her every move.
But instead of breaking under pressure, Biles used the downtime to focus on her mental health, becoming a vocal advocate for athletes’ well-being. She began working with a therapist, something she had previously kept private, and shared her journey with fans in a raw, heartfelt manner. “If COVID-19 taught me anything, it’s that mental health is just as important as physical health,” she said.
As the world slowly returned to normalcy and the Olympics were finally held, Biles’ courageous decision to prioritize her mental health over competing made international headlines. Though she didn’t compete in all her planned events, she returned for the balance beam final, taking home a bronze medal and showing the world that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes.
Simone Biles continues to inspire millions with her strength, both as an athlete and as a person. COVID-19 tested her in ways she never imagined, but in the end, it only amplified her voice as an advocate for change in the world of sports.
