U.S. keeps back out option open for Simone Biles at Paris Olympics following 2020 Tokyo Games incident
The U.S. focuses on not putting too much pressure on Simone Biles after the 2020 Tokyo disaster.
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Simone Biles (Image via Imago)
7x Olympian Simone Biles can take it easy at the Paris Olympic stage, as the U.S. confirms that she has the option to back out at any moment if she is feeling unwell. They stated that she had the option to fall back even during the Tokyo Olympics, but in the end, she never did so until it was too late.
The U.S. Women’s Team’s technical leader Chellsie Memmel stated that they are trying not to let Biles feel that they are “relying” on her. She added, that since the team also has four other players and even alternate athletes, Biles shouldn’t have to worry, in case she does end up leaving.
Simone Biles suffered from twisties during the Tokyo Games. It is reported to be a mental condition where a gymnast has difficulty being in control over both body and mind.
If that's what she needs to continue to be at her best for her team and for herself, then that's what we're going to do...I think for her, just knowing that she has that option... now whether she takes it or not, it's going to be completely up to her.Chellsie Memmel as per Rfi.fr.
So far Biles seemed to appear calm during the practices. However, the U.S. doesn’t want to take any risks and ends up in panic like in the Tokyo Games. Further precautions will be taken, and it is also reported that Biles’ husband Jonathan Owens will also be present to cheer for her.
It’s a possibility Simone Biles will not do all four events in the team final. It’s ultimately Simone’s choice. She was also given the choice at 2023 Worlds and opted to do all four.
— Gymnastics Now (@Gymnastics_Now) July 23, 2024
Memmel believes that knowing that quitting is a “possibility” will deliver a sense of ease to the athlete’s mind. Biles and Suni Lee even called this their “redemption” match after the Tokyo performance.
Simone Biles husband Jonathan Owens will be present at Olympics
The Chicago Bears have given their permission to Jonathan Owens to miss seven training camp practices and be present for the Paris Olympics. He is excited to support his wife Simone Biles, whom fans, and tabloids will be keeping a strict eye on after the Tokyo incident.
As per reports, Owens is expected to be back at the camp by August 4. For now, Biles is set to compete in four events – the all-around, vault, uneven bars, and balance beam. Bears head coach Matt Eberflus commented,
Just because we respect the Olympics. That is a big deal. And he’s just supporting the one he loves the most. And I think that’s so cool that he gets to do that. We welcome that and it’s going to be awesome. Go USA.Matt Eberflus as per Courtney Cronin of ESPN.
Biles recently celebrated her husband’s birthday via a sweet Instagram post where she noted, “…thanks for being the calm to my storm!” and for being there for me all the time. Owens also replied, “I love you so much baby ?? Can’t wait to celebrate with you ❤️”. Just like them, the fans too can’t wait to see them at the Paris Olympics.
In case you missed:
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Kaushani Chatterjee
(2140 Articles Published)