Simone Biles recently revealed that her calf injury during the…read more
Simone Biles recently revealed that her calf injury during the 2024 Paris Olympics was more severe than initially reported. While her coach, Cecile Landi, had mentioned she was experiencing “a little pain” during the competition, the truth came to light in a trailer for the second part of the documentary Simone Biles: Rising. In one clip, Biles is seen telling her coach in distress, “My calf or something just pulled all the way.”
The documentary also includes commentary from fellow gymnast Aly Raisman, who highlighted the intensity of the pain Simone was enduring. Raisman recalled asking Biles how she managed to perform despite such discomfort. Simone’s response was revealing: “I couldn’t have people tell me I was a quitter again.” This statement reflects the pressure Biles felt after facing criticism for pulling out of several events during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics due to mental health struggles and the twisties, a condition that disorients gymnasts mid-air.
Despite her injury in Paris, Biles still delivered exceptional performances, earning four medals—three gold and one silver. This remarkable achievement further cemented her status as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time. Reflecting on her journey and the differences between the 2020 and 2024 Olympics, Biles shared that she felt more prepared mentally and physically this time around. Speaking to NBC News in August, she expressed how much happier she was in her decision to compete, noting, “I chose to do this… I’m in a good spot mentally and physically, so you can’t take that away from me.”
Though Biles dealt with significant physical pain during her performances, even wearing a boot on her left leg after the competition, she emphasized the resilience of elite athletes. “We’re just, through pain or pleasure, ready for whatever,” she remarked.
As for her future in gymnastics, including the possibility of competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Biles has remained tight-lipped. For now, it seems she prefers not to speculate on what’s next, focusing instead on her well-earned success in Paris and her overall well-being.
