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Simone Biles is commenting on her shocking withdrawal from the team finals at the Tokyo Olympics. The United States went on to win silver, with the Russian Olympic Committee taking gold, but it was Biles’ absence that was the biggest story.
Following the event, Biles discussed what led to her dropping out of the event, citing the emotional toll the pressure of being the “head star” for Team USA has had on her.
Biles made her comments to NBC’s Hoda Kotb.
“Physically, I feel good, I’m in shape,” the 24-year-old said. “Emotionally, that kind of varies on the time and moment. Coming to the Olympics and being head star isn’t an easy feat, so we’re just trying to take it one day at a time and we’ll see.
“I’m OK, just super frustrated of how the night, but super proud of these girls and now we’re silver medalists. Something we’ll cherish forever. We hope America still loves us.”
The four-time gold medalist previously commented on feeling the pressure after struggling in qualifying at the Tokyo Games.
Up next for Biles would be the all-around competition and individual events, but she has not yet committed to competing.
“We’re gonna take it day by day, and we’re just gonna see,” she said.
In the end, she has to do what’s best for her mental health.
