Legendary US Gold Medalist Gives Her Take on Simone Biles? Withdrawal From Tokyo Olympics 2020

A perfect athlete is a combination of physical attributes followed by mental stability. The social stigma that surrounds mental health issues is still relatively looked down upon even in this century. However, there seems to be a shift of emotions regarding this matter. After Naomi Osaka’s withdrawal from the French Open earlier this year, Simone Biles could not perform in the finals of the Team Artistic Gymnastics event because of mental health issues.

Biles’ decision to not perform is a major landmark for the advocation of better care for athletes regarding mental health. The legendary US gymnast, Shannon Miller, applauded Biles’ decision to withdraw from the event.

Shannon Miller applauds Simone Biles

Notably, Shannon Miller focused on the issue and threw some limelight on it in a recent interview.

“What I think is really important here is, you have Simone, who clearly knew something wasn’t quite right, and when you are flying and flipping and turning 10, 15 feet above the floor, looking for a landing, you better be in the right headspace or really bad things are going to happen.”

“I think it’s so important for the message to be sent that it is important to be aware of your body, be aware of your emotional state and your mental state as well. I think that’s a good message for all of us,” said Miller.

As the awareness of both the mind and body is key for an athlete, Miller applauded Biles’ decision. Moreover, Michael Phelps remarked on the situation as well. Phelps spoke about her decision to withdraw while focusing on pointers to bring importance to the mental well-being of athletes.

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Will Biles perform again at Tokyo Olympics 2020?

With huge expectations, athletes are becoming more prone to mental breakdowns. The importance of keeping a sound check on a person’s mind is important. Plain and simple, the issue can’t go unnoticed. Even though Biles has won multiple medals in the Rio Olympics, being vulnerable to pressure is common. Even though these athletes are remarkably talented, they are still humans and not robots. Performing for one’s country takes a toll on anyone’s mind and soul.

However, fans hope Biles gets better and can perform again in Tokyo.

Arguably, she is the greatest gymnast of all time. After her famous exploits in Rio, Biles is at her peak. Medical checkups will be done as she hopes to be back for the final individual events. Despite not performing for the team, the support she gave her teammates in the event was admirable. Notably, the US took the silver medal in the team Artistic Gymnastics competition.

The concerns regarding mental health are plenty. Being aware is certainly important for the betterment of the athletes. However, it is safe to withdraw rather than to perform when your body and mind are not in sync.

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