During a recent interview, the most decorated gymnast in history hinted at her future plans for the 2028 Olympics and shared more information about the toll the Paris Olympics took on her body.
PARIS, France — Simone Biles is unsure whether she will compete at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.
For now, the most decorated gymnast of all-time has other priorities and is listening to her body, too.
Expressing her desire to savor life and spend quality time with her husband, Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens, she emphasized the importance of experiencing life beyond the confines of her sport. She highlighted that any potential return to gymnastics would need to ignite a strong passion within her due to her extensive accomplishments in the field.
The 28-year-old American will be in Los Angeles for the Games but does not yet know in which capacity.
While contemplating her involvement in the upcoming Olympics, she admitted uncertainty about whether she would participate as a competitor or a spectator. The athlete acknowledged the distant nature of the 2028 Games and the physical challenges her body faced during the Paris event.
The American gymnast won three gold medals and a silver at the Paris Olympics, taking her career tally to seven Olympic golds and 11 medals overall.
But her body cracked from the strain.
“I went back to the village, I took the elevator and my body literally collapsed. I was sick for 10 days,” she said, before recounting another experience. “The other day, we were sprinting in the garden with friends, I had aches and pains for three days. So, I honestly don’t know. We’ll see.”
She praised her rival, Rebeca Andrade of Brazil, for recovering from injury and for “pushing me beyond my limits,” but also said gymnastics no longer needs both of them.
“It only needs one of us, no? Especially since (Andrade) will not be alone,” Biles said. “A young generation will knock at the door and everything will start again.”
The interview took place before Monday’s Laureus Awards in Madrid, where she was named sportswoman of the year.
Whatever she decides regarding her career, Biles will continue to speak about mental health.
“I am very proud of the work accomplished to reach this point,” she said, “and I will continue to be the voice of the voiceless.”
