Photo: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images
Simone Biles acknowledged the “outpouring of love” she’s received since announcing her withdrawal from several Olympic events.
“The outpouring of love & support I’ve received has made me realize I’m more than my accomplishments and gymnastics which I never truly believed before,” she wrote on Twitter Wednesday (July 28).
Biles cited her mental health in making the decision to exit the women’s gymnastic team final on Tuesday (July 27) and the individual all-around event, which she announced Wednesday (July 28).
The 24-year-old spoke with reporters, explaining that she was “dealing with some things internally” and would not be competing in the events.
In a statement, USA Gymnastics (USAG) said that Biles had undergone “further medical evaluation” before announcing her exit from the individual all-around.
“Simone will continue to be evaluated daily to determine whether or not to participate in next week’s individual event finals,” USAG said, according to People.
It remains unclear if Biles will compete in her final four events, though she told Today that she’s “going to take it day by day and we’re just going to see.”
Support for Biles’ decisions has poured in from former First Lady Michelle Obama, Kerry Washington, and many more.
If you or someone you know need mental health help, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.
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