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People from all around the world came out in support of Simone Biles during Tokyo Olympics 2020. One of the most notable names was former American first lady, Michelle Obama. Simone thanked Michelle for her support during her difficulties with mental health.

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The heroics of Biles are well known to the world; she took the brave step of withdrawing from competition, shining a light on the mental health of athletes.  Simone became one of the most decorated gymnasts in history, not only for her moves, but also for her strong personality.

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Simone Biles is in awe of Michelle Obama

Just one match away from the Olympic podium, Simone took a step back from the mat, citing mental health issues. In a world where athletes are exected to put their health in danger to achieve victories, Simone showed everyone the bigger picture of mental health.

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When Biles had withdrawn from the Tokyo Olympics event, Michelle Obama came forward to extend her support. Michelle tweeted, saying, Am I good enough? Yes, I am. The mantra I practice daily. Simone Biles, we are proud of you and we are rooting for you. Congratulations on the silver medal, Team USA!”

Biles did a reaction to the positive tweets she received in support of her decision. When she came across Michelle’s tweet, Simone just couldn’t stop herself from expressing her gratitude and love for the former first lady of the US.

Simone said, “What’s not to love about Michelle? I absolutely love her. She’s always been so supportive of me and Team USA. I just love her.”

Michelle Obama is an inspiration for many, and getting support from her is a huge motivation for Simone.

Young Simone’s first meeting with Michelle

Back in 2016, when 19-year-old Simone had established her legacy at the Olympics, she visited the Obama family at the White House.

Simone is one of the greatest gymnasts ever, and she deserves every bit of the recognition she has received. What she has achieved proves that the number of medals doesn’t define an athlete. Although Simone has seven Olympic medals, it’s not the only thing people appreciate her for, but also her courage, strength, and determination.

Read More: “I Really Appreciate Simone Biles”: Usain Bolt Praises US Gymnast for Being Brave at Tokyo Olympics 2020

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Shreya Verma

609 Articles

Shreya Verma is a US Sports Content Strategist at EssentiallySports, with a focus on Olympic sports and athlete storytelling, covering beats like tennis, gymnastics, basketball, track and field, wrestling, and more. A qualified National Level air pistol shooter, she brings the unique perspective of both an athlete and a journalist to her work. Over the past four years at EssentiallySports, she has covered some of the biggest sporting stages, from managing the Olympic Sports desk during the Winter Olympics 2022 to spearheading the US Open 2025 coverage and content strategy. In 2024, she was on the ground in Paris for the Summer Olympics, where she interviewed legends and rising stars, including Carl Lewis, Laurie Hernandez, Fred Kerley, Noah Lyles, Quincy Hall, and Grant Holloway, who memorably offered her the chance to try on his gold medal. She also connected with icons and fan favorites such as Tom Brady, Katie Ledecky, Tara Davis & Hunter Woodhall, Andy Murray, Ilona Maher, Kevon Williams, Jonathan Owens, and Neeraj Chopra, while capturing emotional family perspectives from Nellie Biles, Jordan Chiles’ mother, Suni Lee’s mother, and Katie Ledecky’s brother, Michael. Her journalism is marked by authenticity, access, and a deep passion for highlighting perseverance and human connection in sports. Inspired by Olympic champions like Allyson Felix and Vincent Hancock, Shreya continues to carve her path as a storyteller.

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