Simone Biles has expressed uncertainty about her participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, highlighting her concerns about the physical toll that gymnastics takes on her body and the other priorities in her life. The 28-year-old gymnast, who is the most decorated gymnast of all time, stated that while she has achieved much in her sport, returning to competition would require a strong sense of excitement and motivation.
At 31, Biles would be significantly older than most elite gymnasts, many of whom have long retired by this stage of their careers. The oldest all-around female gymnastics champion is Maria Gorokhovskaya, who won gold at the age of 30 at the 1952 Olympics, a fact that Biles is aware of as she contemplates her future in the sport. She has emphasized the importance of enjoying her life outside of gymnastics, spending time with her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, and supporting him at his games.
Biles also pointed out that many people underestimate the immense time and effort it takes to prepare for the Olympics, noting that it is not just a one-year commitment but a four-year process leading up to the Games. The 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, which will be held back in the United States, hold a certain appeal, but Biles remains uncertain about whether she will compete. She revealed that while she plans to attend the Games, she is unsure whether she will do so as a competitor or simply as a spectator.
The physical strain of gymnastics was something Biles felt acutely during her recent participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she won three gold medals and a silver, bringing her total Olympic gold medal count to seven. Despite her success, she admitted that the toll on her body was significant. She recalled a moment after the Paris Games when she was so physically drained that she collapsed after returning to the Olympic village and was ill for several days. She also noted how even a simple sprinting activity with friends left her sore for days, underscoring the physical challenges that come with elite athleticism.
Biles spoke fondly of her rivalry with Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade, who has recovered from significant injuries and continues to push the limits of the sport. While she admires Andrade’s resilience, Biles acknowledged that gymnastics may no longer need both of them at the top, especially as a new generation of gymnasts begins to emerge. She recognized that the sport’s future is constantly evolving, and a younger generation will continue to rise and make their mark on the gymnastics world.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding her future in gymnastics, Biles remains deeply committed to speaking out about mental health, a topic that became a significant part of her narrative during the Tokyo Olympics when she withdrew from several events to prioritize her well-being. Biles has made it clear that she is proud of the work she has accomplished in both her athletic career and her advocacy for mental health. She sees herself as a voice for those who are struggling, particularly in the realm of mental health, and she intends to continue using her platform to bring awareness and support to those who need it most.
As she reflects on her journey, Biles recognizes that her decision to compete at the 2028 Olympics will ultimately depend on her physical and emotional readiness, but for now, she is focused on living life on her own terms, finding balance, and supporting the people she loves. The future of Simone Biles in gymnastics may still be uncertain, but her impact on the sport and her advocacy for mental health will continue to inspire for years to come.
