This week Simone Biles withdrew from the team and individual all-around gymnastic competitions at the Tokyo Olympics after citing concerns for her mental health. The six-time Olympic medalist and 19-time world champion expressed that she would not compete due to a mental block and something gymnasts call ‘the twisties’, which was making it difficult to focus on her routines and execute them safely.
Biles’ decision to withdraw, and disclose the reasons why, has been heralded for its bravery in putting mental health ahead of success on the playing field. Her actions mirror that of Naomi Osaka who recently withdrew from the French Open and Wimbledon citing depression and anxiety.