Simone Biles’ withdrawal from multiple Tokyo 2020 Olympic events to prioritize mental health became a defining moment for athlete wellbeing and the de-stigmatization of mental health struggles. The greatest gymnast of all time chose herself over medals.

The Twisties

During team finals on July 27, 2021, Biles attempted a vault but only completed 1.5 twists instead of 2.5, landing dangerously. She withdrew mid-competition, later revealing she had “the twisties”—a mental block where gymnasts lose spatial awareness mid-air, risking catastrophic injury or paralysis.

Biles withdrew from the individual all-around, vault, floor, and uneven bars finals. She returned for balance beam, winning bronze with a modified routine eliminating twisting dismounts.

Global Reaction

Initial criticism (“quitter,” “letting down her team”) quickly gave way to support. Celebrities, mental health advocates, and fellow athletes praised her courage. USA Gymnastics’ toxic culture (Larry Nassar abuse, “winning at all costs”) was re-examined.

First Lady Jill Biden called her. Tennis star Naomi Osaka (who had also cited mental health in withdrawing from French Open 2021) supported her publicly. The team silver medal (without Biles competing much) was celebrated as a victory.

Legacy & Return

Biles became TIME’s 2021 Athlete of the Year. She testified before Congress about the FBI’s mishandling of Larry Nassar’s abuse. She married NFL player Jonathan Owens in 2023.

At the 2023 World Championships, Biles returned to win four gold medals and two silvers, proving she remained the GOAT. She debuted the Yurchenko double pike vault, becoming the first woman to land it in competition—now named the “Biles II.”

Her Tokyo withdrawal normalized athletes prioritizing mental health over performance. “It’s okay to not be okay” became a mantra. Biles showed that even the greatest can (and should) step back when needed.

Source: NBC Olympics Simone Biles