Challenges Faced by Simone Biles: Obstacles and Turning Points

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Simone Biles. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Simone Biles is an American artistic gymnast, considered one of the greatest of all time. She holds the record for the most decorated gymnast in history, with a combined total of 41 Olympic and World Championship medals. Her accomplishments include 11 Olympic medals, tying her as the second-most decorated female Olympic gymnast, and the most Olympic medals earned by a U.S. gymnast. Biles's dominance and influence have solidified her status as a sporting icon.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

2013: Poor Performance and Consultation with Sports Psychologist

In July 2013, Simone Biles had a poor performance at the U.S. Classic, falling several times and twisting her ankle. Following this, she consulted a sports psychologist, who helped her with anxiety and confidence issues.

2013: Senior International Debut

In March 2013, Simone Biles made her senior international debut at the American Cup, a FIG World Cup event, finishing second after a fall off the beam.

September 2016: Disclosure of ADHD and Medication Use

In September 2016, following a cyber espionage attack on the World Anti-Doping Agency, Simone Biles disclosed that she has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and has been permitted to take medication for it under a therapeutic use exemption.

September 2017: Disclosure of ADHD diagnosis

In September 2017, Simone Biles spoke about having attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) after her medical records were leaked online, revealing that she had been taking Ritalin (methylphenidate) to treat the condition during the Olympics.

January 18, 2018: Biles Reveals Nassar's Abuse

On January 18, 2018, Simone Biles publicly stated that she was sexually assaulted by former USA Gymnastics physician Larry Nassar and accused USA Gymnastics of covering it up.

2020: 2020 Summer Olympics

During the 2020 Summer Olympics, Simone Biles withdrew from most of the competition after the qualification round due to "the twisties". She did, however, win a bronze medal on balance beam and a silver medal with the U.S. team nicknamed the "Fighting Four" at the 2020 Olympics.

July 28, 2021: Biles Withdraws from All-Around Competition

On July 28, 2021, Simone Biles withdrew from the finals of the individual all-around competition at the Olympics, citing mental health concerns.

August 2021: Simone Biles Competes at the 2020 Olympic Games

In August 2021, at the 2020 Olympic Games, Simone Biles competed in the all-around during qualifications, helping the United States qualify for the team final in second place despite several uncharacteristic mistakes during qualifications. She qualified for all individual finals.

September 15, 2021: Biles Testifies Before Senate Judiciary Committee

On September 15, 2021, Simone Biles testified before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, holding "the entire system" responsible for enabling Larry Nassar's crimes, criticizing USA Gymnastics and the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee for failing in their duties.