Simone Biles returns to the Paris Olympics with a message of resilience.

Three years after her surprising withdrawal from the Tokyo Olympic Games, Simone Biles is back on the Olympic stage, preparing for what she has called her "redemption tour" at the Paris Games. At 27 years old and with an impressive career that includes four Olympic gold medals, Biles returns not only as a favorite but also as a symbol of resilience and mental health in sports. The American gymnast, who faced a critical episode of mental block known as "twisties" in Tokyo, has made conscious decisions to prioritize her mental and physical well-being. This phenomenon affects a gymnast's ability to coordinate her body with her mind, resulting in her withdrawal from most events in Japan. However, her return has been marked by a new perspective on the pressure she faces and the importance of self-care. In a recent interview, Biles shared how she has changed since her experience in Tokyo. "Being in a good mental state. Seeing my therapist every Thursday is kind of a religion for me, that's why I'm here today," she stated. This focus on mental health reflects the growing recognition of the importance of emotional well-being among athletes, especially in a demanding sport like gymnastics. Biles's preparation for the Paris Games has also included a renewed commitment to her physical conditioning. Unlike what might be expected in a sport where most athletes reach their peak in their teens, Biles has shown that longevity in the sport is possible. "I never imagined going to the Olympics after Tokyo. [But] I tell myself, 'Oh my God, I'm still doing it, I'm still capable,'" she affirmed. In the qualifying rounds in Paris, Biles showcased her exceptional skill by finishing first in the individual event, surpassing her main competitor, Brazilian Rebeca Andrade, by nearly two points. However, she also showed vulnerability by limping slightly during warm-ups, a reminder that despite her greatness, her body remains human. The evolution of gymnastics has been remarkable in recent years, and Biles has been key to this change. Routines now prioritize power and complexity, moving away from the perfectionist aesthetic of ballet that previously characterized the sport. Laurie Hernandez, a teammate and NBC analyst, noted that whenever it seems the difficulty cannot increase, Biles manages to incorporate new and challenging skills. One of the most anticipated jumps in Paris is the "Yurchenko with double tucked somersault," a move that no other woman has executed in competition. This jump, which defies gravity and logic, has been recorded in the rules as "Biles II," a declaration of her undeniable dominance in the sport. The experience in Tokyo not only affected Biles but also opened a broader dialogue about mental health in sports. Athletes like Naomi Osaka and Michael Phelps have shared their struggles, allowing others to feel more comfortable addressing these issues. Biles has contributed to this change, not only through her own openness but also through the way USA Gymnastics has adjusted expectations and the environment to protect its athletes. Biles's coach, Cecile Landi, emphasized the importance of giving Simone and her teammates the flexibility to decide whether they want to compete in all events. "I think for her knowing that she has the option of, 'Hey, maybe I want to skip an event'... helps the mind," she noted. This more conscious and less pressurized approach is a step towards a healthier environment. Additionally, Biles has been relieved of the normal media demands, allowing her to focus on her performance without external distractions. Jill Geer, head of communications for USA Gymnastics, explained that efforts have been made to ensure Biles feels comfortable and maximizes her performance, reflecting a transformation in how mental health is addressed in elite sports. Finally, the Netflix documentary series about her life has allowed viewers to glimpse the challenges she has faced on her journey back. Through her story, Biles not only showcases her greatness as an athlete but also her humanity and the internal struggles she has had to confront. At the Paris Games, her message is clear: success is not measured solely in medals but in personal growth and mental health.