TOKYO — Did Simone Biles “quit” on the rest of the United States women’s gymnastics team Tuesday when, after a disastrously bad vault in the first rotation, she pulled herself out of competition citing a lack of focus caused by mental health concerns?
More specifically, did that decision cost the Americans a chance at winning the gold medal? Was there a negative impact to having Sunisa Lee, Jordan Chiles and Grace McCallum handle the final three rotations?
No. She didn't. In fact, you can argue that Biles’ decision actually gave Team USA a chance at the silver medal it eventually captured.