In an episode of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, decorated gymnast Simone Biles recently opened up about the mental struggles she faced during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics when she withdrew from the team final after experiencing the “twisties.” Biles expressed her fear that the world would hate her for her decision to step back from competing.
The “twisties,” a disconnect between a gymnast’s mind and body, made it difficult for Biles to execute moves. She described feeling as though America hated her and feared being banned if she did not win gold, despite these fears, she ultimately decided to step back from competition and paved the way for her replacement Jordan Chiles in the team event that resulted in a silver medal for USA.
Biles went on to win a bronze medal in the balance beam before taking a break from gymnastics. She compared her experience with other athletes’ struggles such as “yips” in baseball or suddenly forgetting how to drive a car. The feeling of losing control over her body and mind led Biles to make the tough decision to stop competing in the games.
Since then, Biles has returned to excellence in gymnastics, winning 33 medals at world championships and Olympics, tying Vitaly Scherbo for most by any gymnast. Looking ahead, Biles is setting her sights on the 2024 Paris Olympics where she hopes to continue striving for greatness in the sport.