Simone Biles is a name everyone knows in gymnastics. Her amazing flips and tricks have wowed people all over the world. Lately, there’s been a lot of talk about her possibly retiring because of changes in her life and career. Let’s clear up what’s really going on.
Who Is Simone Biles?
If you follow gymnastics at all, you know Simone Biles. She’s a 4-time Olympic gold medalist and 19-time world champion – the most decorated American gymnast ever. Biles has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in the sport with her gravity-defying routines.
Her signature moves, like the Yurchenko double pike vault, have become iconic. She’s the only woman to ever land this incredibly difficult skill in competition. Biles’ power, precision, and innovation have redefined gymnastics and inspired athletes everywhere.
Simone Biles Retirement
So, has Simone Biles retired from gymnastics? The answer is: not exactly. While she’s made some big announcements recently, Biles hasn’t officially hung up her leotard just yet.
What she has retired is the Yurchenko double pike, also known as the Biles II. This vault was a huge part of her success and is considered one of the toughest in women’s gymnastics. By taking this skill out of her arsenal, Biles is signaling a shift in her competitive strategy.
But Biles hasn’t ruled out the possibility of competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. “Never say never,” she teased, leaving the door open for a potential return. For now though, she’s focusing on her personal life – Biles is expecting a baby with her husband Jonathan Owens.
Peak Of Her Career
Even if Biles never competes again, her legacy is secure. She’s reached the absolute pinnacle of gymnastics achievement. Biles has won every individual all-around competition she’s entered since 2013 – an unbelievable winning streak.
Her total career medal count is a staggering 32 Olympic and World Championship medals. Biles has set the standard for gymnastics excellence incredibly high. She’s shown little girls everywhere that with hard work and determination, you can achieve your wildest dreams.
Biles has also been a powerful advocate for change within the sport. She’s spoken out about the need for better athlete safety measures and mental health support. As a survivor of sexual abuse herself, Biles knows firsthand how important it is to protect vulnerable gymnasts.
Challenges Faced By Simone Biles
Simone has openly shared some of the difficulties she’s faced. In 2021, she withdrew from several Olympic events due to mental health challenges and “the twisties,” a disorienting condition that can be dangerous for gymnasts.
Her courage in prioritizing her wellbeing was an inspiration to many. It highlighted the intense pressure elite athletes face. Simone showed that even the very best struggle sometimes – and there’s strength in acknowledging that.
Her Performance At The 2024 Paris Olympics
Fast forward to 2024 and Simone was back on top! In Paris, she became the most decorated American gymnast in Olympic history. Her tally included 3 golds and 1 silver.
Simone dazzled audiences with her unparalleled talent and artistry. However, she did make one major change – the retirement of her signature Yurchenko double pike vault. She even held a humorous mock “funeral” for the move on social media.
This showed Simone’s fun-loving personality. But it also hinted that she may be winding down her gymnastics career and competitive days. With nothing left to prove, she seems ready to enjoy her success.
Simone Biles’ Legacy
Whether or not Simone continues in elite gymnastics, her legacy is secure. She’s a trailblazer who has taken the sport to new heights. Simone’s accomplishments include:
- 32 Olympic & World Championship medals
- 4 never-before-seen skills named after her
- Smashing long-held records in the sport
- Advocating for mental health & foster children
But beyond the medals, Simone has changed gymnastics forever. She’s inspired a new generation with her excellence, artistry and personality. Every young gymnast wants to be like Simone. She’s shown what’s possible when you strive for your dreams.
Simone Biles’ Current Activities
So what’s Simone up to now? She’s enjoying an exciting phase of life! In 2023, she married NFL player Jonathan Owens. The couple are now expecting their first child.
While Simone hasn’t ruled out a return for the 2028 LA Olympics, she seems content to focus on her growing family for now. She’s stated she wants to appreciate her achievements without pressure to decide her competitive future.
Simone has also stayed busy with media appearances, sponsorships and events. She remains one of the most popular and marketable athletes in the world.
Conclusion
Simone Biles has made a huge impact on gymnastics with her amazing skills and achievements. Although she hasn’t officially retired, she has decided to stop using her famous vault and focus more on her personal life, including becoming a mother. No matter what she does next, her legacy is secure—her remarkable career, advocacy for athlete safety, and inspiration to many will always be remembered. Simone Biles will forever be seen as a trailblazer and a symbol of excellence in gymnastics.