Simone Biles Says She's "More than Gymnastics" Following Withdrawal from Tokyo Olympic Events

Simone Biles Says She's "More than Gymnastics" Following Withdrawal from Tokyo Olympic Events
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Simone Biles is speaking out about her decision to prioritize her mental health amid the Tokyo Olympic Games.

In a new statement shared on Twitter, the superstar gymnast expressed her gratitude to her fans, public figures, and the general public who have sent well-wishes her way following her decision to not participate in a number of gymnastics competitions, including the gymnastics team final and the women's individual all-around competition. (Biles's U.S. teammate Suni Lee went on to win gold in the latter competition.) Biles expressed that her decision to withdrawal was due to her battling emotional stress amid the pressure of the Olympic Games.

"The outpouring love & support I've received has made me realize I'm more than my accomplishments and gymnastics which I never truly believed before," Biles tweeted yesterday.

USA Gymnastics also showed its support for Biles in a statement following her decision to opt out of another Olympic event this week.

"After further medical evaluation, Simone Biles has withdrawn from the final individual all-around competition at the Tokyo Olympic Games, in order to focus on her mental health," the statement said.

It added, "We wholeheartedly support Simone's decision and applaud her bravery in prioritizing her well-being. Her courage shows, yet again, why she is a role model for so many."

Biles could still compete in four upcoming final events—the individual vault, beam, uneven bars, and floor exercise—though it's unclear if she will participate at this point.

"[I'm] going to take it day by day and we're just going to see," Biles told TODAY, per People.

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