Simone Biles — And The World — Reflects On An Impressive Olympic Legacy

When it comes to naming the greatest Olympic gymnast in history, there’s a great deal of subjective opinion that goes into the process. But if we’re talking about objective contributions to the sport, whether by collecting medals or introducing new techniques, then Simone Biles would clearly have to be at or near the top of the list.

All eyes on Simone

From the audience in the arena to fans watching on TV around the world, everything seems to stop when Biles prepares to perform. And even when she doesn’t pull off a flawless routine, there’s always something to appreciate about her poise and form.

And her work on behalf of Team USA in Paris was even more special because it almost certainly represented the last time the 27-year-old will take part in the Olympics. She added four more medals to her collection, bringing the count up to 11 and securing her spot as the most decorated American female Olympic gymnast in history.

All that came after she suffered from a bad case of the so-called “twisties” during the Tokyo Olympics that caused her to drop out of most of her scheduled events. Looking at things from that perspective, Biles is pleased with the way she’ll be heading back home.

“A couple years ago, I didn’t think I’d be back here, so competing and walking away with four medals, I’m not mad at it,” she said recently. “I’m pretty proud of myself.”

An undeniable influence

From the five gymnastic skills named after her to the mentorship of younger peers, there’s no denying the lasting legacy Biles will have on the sport she loves.

But her willingness to prioritize her own mental and physical health over the pressure to perform is a quality that resonates far outside the world of gymnastics.

Chris Agee August 6th, 2024

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