Simone Biles faced intense criticism when she withdrew from events at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, citing mental health struggles. Many labeled her a “quitter,” but her decision highlighted the importance of prioritizing well-being over societal expectations. Fast forward to the 2024 Paris Olympics, Biles silenced her critics with a triumphant return, securing three gold medals and drawing a massive audience of 34 million viewers across NBC platforms. Her legacy as the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) was further cemented, proving she never needed external validation to confirm her status. Notably, Biles has maintained an unparalleled level of excellence, having never lost an all-around competition since 2013.
Recent analysis of three years’ worth of data (2022-2024) underscores Biles’ dominance. Gymternet reviewed over 38,000 entries from 709 gymnastics competitions and found that Biles consistently posted some of the highest scores of the quad, with all-around scores frequently reaching the 60s, 59s, and 58s. This achievement came despite the mental health struggles she faced in Tokyo, reaffirming her status as one of the sport’s most enduring champions.
Biles’ list of accomplishments is staggering. She holds the record for the most world championship medals, with 23 golds to her name, and no American gymnast has earned more Olympic medals. With eight Olympic medals in total—five of them gold—and six individual all-around world titles, Biles is a trailblazer. Additionally, five gymnastics moves are named after her, showcasing her ability to perform skills no one else has dared to attempt. Her confidence and skill were evident when she once wore a leotard adorned with a rhinestone goat, symbolizing her GOAT status.
Her performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics was a defining moment. Leading Team USA to gold in the team all-around, Biles showcased her resilience and talent. It was a powerful comeback that reminded the world of her unparalleled abilities. Had it not been for the challenges she faced in Tokyo, she might have achieved even more.
The 2020 Tokyo Olympics, however, were a turning point in her career. After a stellar performance in Rio in 2016, where she won four gold medals, expectations for her in Tokyo were immense. During the team final, things took an unexpected turn. On her first vault, Biles lost her sense of direction mid-air, completing just 1.5 twists instead of 2.5. Her shaky landing and unsettled expression revealed something was wrong. Shortly after, she withdrew from the competition, later explaining she was dealing with “the twisties”—a condition where gymnasts lose spatial awareness, making it incredibly dangerous to perform.
Biles received widespread criticism, but athletes and gymnasts rallied behind her, emphasizing the risks involved. She even shared practice videos to illustrate the severity of the condition. Despite stepping back from most events, Biles returned for the balance beam final, modifying her routine to avoid risky dismounts. She earned a bronze medal, a moment that resonated deeply with fans and athletes alike. This decision to prioritize her health over expectations ultimately set the stage for her remarkable Paris comeback.
Through her struggles and triumphs, Biles has redefined what it means to be a true champion. Her journey underscores the importance of resilience, mental health awareness, and unwavering excellence, solidifying her as an icon in the world of sports.