Former Olympians are supporting the decision of superstar gymnast Simone Biles, who withdrew from the individual all-around competition at the Tokyo Games.
USA Gymnastics announced early Wednesday that 24-year-old Biles will instead focus on her mental well-being. Biles’ choice comes one day after she pulled out of the team final.
“We also have to focus on ourselves, because at the end of the day we’re human, too,” Biles said Tuesday. “So, we have to protect our mind and our body, rather than just go out there and do what the world wants us to do.”
Four-time Olympics medalist Dominique Dawes spoke with Fox News in support of Biles, praising her for stepping back — as she recalled her own experience as a gymnast.
Dawes competed from 1992 to 2000 and was part of the gold-winning, “Magnificent Seven” team at the 1996 Summer Olympic Games held in Atlanta. She also took home an individual bronze for her floor exercise performance, becoming the first, Black American woman to medal in her sport.
