Simone Biles delivered a remarkable performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, securing gold in the team, all-around, vault competitions and a silver in floor exercise. These victories brought her Olympic medal tally to 11, enhancing her impressive collection of 30 World Championship medals—the highest ever by a gymnast.
Her success in Paris represented a significant comeback following her withdrawal from several events at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics due to mental health concerns.
Biles’ resurgence in 2024 was inspirational, earning her the ESPY for Best Comeback Athlete and Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the Year title. Additionally, she was a close second for the Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year, narrowly missing out to Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark.
Addressing Speculation About the 2028 Olympics
Biles has often been noncommittal about continuing her gymnastics career, citing her age, personal goals, and the sacrifices in pursuing another Olympic bid. Yet, in a recent Sports Illustrated interview, she provided a definitive perspective on competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
“With all that I’ve accomplished, there’s little left to achieve. At this stage, it’s about knowing when it’s the right time to step back,” she commented.
“If I were to return, it might seem greedy. That’s a choice with its own set of sacrifices. When you’re younger, you might miss prom or college, but now, it involves major life decisions like starting a family and spending time away from my husband.”
Her husband, Jonathan Owens, a safety for the Chicago Bears, has been crucial in her support network.
Although she previously left open the possibility of returning, especially since the 2028 Games will be held in her home country, her recent statements indicate that she is finding peace with her illustrious career.
