Simone Biles’ Triumphant Return: From Hiatus to AP’s Female Athlete of the Year

22 December 2023

After a two-year hiatus, Simone Biles’ return to the gymnastics arena marked a significant chapter in her illustrious career. She chuckled at the shared uncertainty and stepped onto the floor amid curiosity and anticipation. Yet, within a rotation, she found herself back in her element. Her subsequent achievements, culminating in being named The Associated Press’ Female Athlete of the Year, reflected an inspiring comeback.

The Evolution of Simone Biles: A Journey Beyond Gymnastics Dominance:

The narrative of Simone Biles’ triumphant return, highlighted by her eighth U.S. national championship and sixth world all-around gold, established her as one of the few women to claim the AP honour three times. However, Simone Biles’ journey back was challenging. Following the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she bravely prioritized her mental health over competition, she faced both acclaim and criticism.

The backlash she received on social media amidst her decision to withdraw from multiple finals due to the challenges of the “twisties” spurred a reflective period. Biles retreated into a protective shell, delving into therapy while carefully contemplating her return to the sport on her terms. Despite lingering self-doubt, she confronted her anxiety, embracing its presence and delivering a performance that showcased her unparalleled talent.

Reflecting on her previous AP honors in 2016 and 2019, Biles reminisced about her teenage years, centered around her family’s gym in Houston after her star-making appearance at the Rio Olympics. However, life has evolved drastically since then. Beyond gymnastics, she now navigates marriage to Green Bay Packers’ Jonathan Owens, corporate commitments, and the intricacies of building a home.

Biles’ transformation is a blend of organic growth and intentional choices. Previously fixated on perfection in her sport, she now adopts a more measured approach, acknowledging that bad days don’t equate to the end of the world. Her return to elite gymnastics was a decision she cautiously embraced, encouraged by her support system’s unwavering belief in her capabilities.

Her dominance in the sport persists. Simone Biles’ routines exhibit unprecedented precision and gravity-defying athleticism, evident in her groundbreaking Yurchenko double-pike on vault, a move now synonymous with her name in the sport’s code of points. Her dedication to pushing boundaries remains unwavering, fueled not merely by the necessity to win but by her inherent ability to defy conventions.

While another Olympic appearance beckons, Simone Biles deliberately shies away from discussions concerning Paris 2024, preferring to focus on her present. Her recent Instagram post, choosing a wedding reception snapshot with Owens as her best moment of 2023, signifies a shift in priorities. The image encapsulates a life finding equilibrium beyond the gymnastics realm.

Finally, Simone Biles’ journey back to the summit of gymnastics reaffirmed her unparalleled talent and underscored her growth as an individual. Her ability to redefine success and find balance amid immense pressure is an inspiration, transcending the confines of her sport and resonating with audiences worldwide.