Jade Carey will replace Biles in the competition on Thursday, USA Gymnastics said in a statement. Biles’ withdrawal from the all-around, where she is the defending Olympic gold medalist, comes a day after she pulled out of the team final after one event on Tuesday. USA Gymnastics said Biles will not compete so she can focus on her mental health and would continue to be evaluated to determine whether or not she would compete in event finals next week.
“We wholeheartedly support Simone’s decision and applaud her bravery in prioritizing her well-being,” USA Gymnastics said in a statement. “Her courage shows, yet again, why she is a role model for so many.”
Biles withdrew from the team competition Tuesday night after vault, the Americans’ first event. She had bailed on an Amanar in warmups, and did the same when it came time to compete. The 2½-twisting somersault is one of the most difficult vaults being done, but is so second-nature to Biles she could probably do it five minutes after getting out of bed.
She looked close to tears as she walked off the podium, and coach Cecile Landi immediately went and put an arm around her shoulders. Biles could be seen talking with team physician Dr. Marcia Faustin for several minutes before the two left the competition floor.