Gymnastics icon Simone Biles, a four-time Olympic gold medalist, is preparing to return to the competitive stage after an almost two-year hiatus. Officials announced on Wednesday that Biles will participate in the upcoming U.S. Classic, scheduled for August 4-5 at the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, Illinois.
This will mark Biles’ first competition since the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where she gained global attention by shedding light on the mental health challenges faced by athletes. The 26-year-old superstar rose to prominence during the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she clinched gold medals in the team all-around, individual all-around, vault, and floor exercise events. Additionally, she secured a bronze medal on the balance beam.
Anticipation had been high surrounding Biles leading up to the Tokyo Games, which were delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, she surprised the gymnastics world when she withdrew from the team finals, citing the emotional toll of the competition rather than a physical injury.
In subsequent interviews, Biles revealed that her struggles were primarily mental, expressing the difficulties of being the center of attention at the Olympics. She stated that she felt physically prepared but emotionally fluctuated based on the circumstances. Her decision to step back from the competition highlighted the importance of prioritizing mental well-being in high-pressure sporting events.
Biles’ participation in the August competition raises hopes that she will aim for her third Olympic appearance at the 2024 Paris Games. However, her status for the upcoming Olympics remains uncertain.
Despite Biles’ absence in Tokyo, the U.S. women’s gymnastics team still claimed the silver medal in the team event. She returned to competition in Tokyo and earned a bronze medal on the balance beam.
Shortly after the Olympics, Biles testified tearfully before the Senate Judiciary Committee, sharing her experience of being sexually abused by former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar. She criticized both USA Gymnastics and the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee for their failure to protect athletes.
Since her last competition, Biles tied the knot with Jonathan Owens, a safety for the Green Bay Packers, in a wedding ceremony earlier this year.
When Biles steps onto the floor in suburban Chicago in just over six weeks, she will be joined by fellow Americans Sunisa Lee, who secured gold in the individual all-around event in Tokyo, and Jade Carey, the reigning floor exercise gold medalist.
USA Gymnastics Chief Programs Officer Stefanie Korepin expressed excitement about the level of talent and historical legacy that may be present at the U.S. Classic. She emphasized that each athlete is in a different stage of their season and career, and they will be supported regardless of their journey.
