Simone Biles confessed ‘shaking’ with anxiety in Paris Olympic Village 2024

Who is Simone Biles?

Simone Biles, the world-renowned gymnast, has always been in the spotlight for her incredible athletic achievements. However, her recent admissions about anxiety during the 2024 Paris Olympics have revealed a different side of her journey—one that underscores the importance of mental health even for elite athletes.

What happen to her in Paris Olympic 2024?

In a candid TikTok video shared on August 2, Biles opened up about her nerves and anxiety ahead of the women’s gymnastics vault final. Despite having won another gold medal in the individual all-around gymnastics final just a day before, and contributing to the US women's gymnastics team securing gold in the all-around finals, Biles confessed to feeling "shaking" anxiety. This vulnerability offers a profound look into the mental struggles that even the most accomplished athletes face.

Simon Biles - Journey in Paris Olympic 2024

Biles, at 27, returned to the Bercy Arena on August 3 for the women's vault final and clinched her third gold medal of the 2024 Paris Olympics with a final score of 14.966. Her teammate, Jade Carey, won bronze with a score of 14.466. Despite her triumphant performance, Biles admitted that vault was the event she was most nervous about, fearing she might "overpower" it. This anxiety was compounded by the stiff competition, particularly from Brazilian gymnast Rebecca Andrade, whom Biles identified as her "top competitor."

The pressure of the Olympic Village environment exacerbated Biles’ anxiety. She recounted an overwhelming experience in the cafeteria where constant photo requests left her so anxious that she was physically shaking. This intense pressure led her to avoid the cafeteria to manage her mental state better.

Mental health issues in Simon Biles

Biles has been vocal about her mental health journey, emphasizing the importance of therapy. She shared that therapy sessions have been integral to her preparation for the Olympics, helping her manage anxiety and maintain focus. On Instagram, she posted a picture of herself meditating in the Bercy Arena, captioning it with "Mental health matters," a statement that resonates deeply given her experiences.

In interviews, Biles has elaborated on the role of therapy in her routine. Speaking to reporters after Team USA’s all-around event, she highlighted how beginning her day with therapy helped her feel calm and ready for competition. This preparation played a crucial role in her gold medal-winning performance. She reiterated the relief she felt after completing her vault routine, a moment where she feared potential flashbacks from previous struggles but ultimately felt a significant sense of accomplishment and readiness to continue competing.

Biles’ conversation with Today co-anchor Hoda Kotb further delved into her mental health practices. She emphasized the importance of not burying emotions but instead speaking about them openly. This practice of vocalizing her thoughts and seeking therapy has become a cornerstone of her daily routine, aiding her in navigating the immense pressures of her sport.

Simone Biles' openness about her anxiety and mental health struggles brings to light the often-overlooked aspects of being an elite athlete. Her story is a powerful reminder that mental health is as crucial as physical health, and that seeking help and speaking out about one’s struggles are steps toward overcoming them. Biles’ journey underscores that even the most successful individuals face challenges and that addressing mental health is essential for overall well-being and sustained success.

How do Athletes face mental health issues?

Athletes face many challenges beyond just physical training. They often deal with high pressure to perform well and constant media attention. Injuries and the tough process of healing can be hard both physically and mentally.

Balancing personal life with strict training schedules can lead to feelings of loneliness. Many athletes also face financial struggles if they don't have big sponsors. Mental health issues are often ignored, and the strict diets and travel can be exhausting. All these factors can lead to stress and burnout, making it tough for athletes to stay happy and perform at their best.