In a triumphant return that defies all odds, the spotlight is once again on Simone Biles. After a two-year hiatus, her remarkable return was met with an awe-inspiring eighth victory at the Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships. With an overwhelming two-day score of 118.450, Biles secured the coveted all-around gold.

Demonstrating her unmatched versatility, she soared to a two-day total of 29.300 on the beam and 30.200 on the floor, capturing victories in both apparatuses. Her dedication was evident, as she also clinched the bronze with a score of 28.400 on the uneven bars and a resounding 30.550 on the vault. Despite these monumental achievements, a sense of bewilderment clouded the air as Biles concluded the event.

Simone Biles left baffled with her latest win

In a conversation with TIME, Biles eloquently described her state of mind, saying, “When I hit 8 for 8, that was my expectation going into the night. So I’m very proud of myself for that. Proud of Wcc. How we kind came out here and finished strong?. However, beneath the spotlight and adulation, Biles admitted to a dreamlike disconnect that often enveloped her during her performances.

“Every time I come out here I feel like I’m in a fever dream, and nothing’s real. Like I’m not competing at all,” she shared, revealing a perplexing blend of presence and detachment. “I just seriously can’t believe that I’m out here competing again. I just really can’t. So I’m proud of myself for that,” she mused.

An interviewer probed the depths of her determination, asking, “What brings you back? What is bringing you back?” Biles, her spirit undaunted, responded with a chuckle, “Yeah, I ask myself that every day.”

She playfully continued, “I still feel like I have some personal goals. I still feel like I’m capable of doing it. And I’ve kind of proved to myself that I can still go out there and compete at the same level as before. Um, so as long as,” she half-joked, “no, I wouldn’t say as long as I keep doing that I’ll be out here, ’cause absolutely not…” Her voice then surged with determination, “But I’m gonna give it one more go. And then we’ll see.” Simone Biles’ journey back to the pinnacle of her sport has been one of trials and triumphs.

How she emerged? from her ‘twisties’?

Her mental health advocacy, which led to her withdrawal from two Olympic finals at the Tokyo Olympics, showcased her courage in prioritizing her well-being over external pressures.

Earlier on that day, she had shared with journalists that she was “having a little bit of the twisties,” a candid acknowledgement of the mental hurdles she faced. During her time away from the spotlight, Biles took to seeking therapy, an essential step on her path to recovery and resurgence.

In a poignant Instagram story, she highlighted the significance of this journey, revealing how therapy played a pivotal role in her resurgence and training, propelling her back to the top.

As the world watches in awe, Biles’ fans worldwide fervently hope that she will continue to amass accolades, adding to her remarkable collection of seven Olympic medals.

Read more: President Joe Biden Joins Millions of Americans in Giving Simone Biles the Ultimate Title After Historic 8th US All Around Win

With the World Championships in Belgium in October, she embarks on her journey towards the Paris Olympics in 2024, and the world stands ready to witness the grace and power that defines the extraordinary legacy of Simone Biles.

Watch this story: Raising the Stakes Next to Simone Biles, Asher Hong Carves His Name at XFinity US National Gymnastics Championship