Putting ‘Mental Health First,’ Biles Withdraws from Team Competition

Simone Biles faced immense pressure during the Tokyo Olympics, leading to her withdrawal from the team competition after a challenging vault performance. The absence of an audience and other variables added to the stress. Biles, a survivor of the Larry Nassar scandal, has been a vocal advocate for change within gymnastics. She emphasized the importance of mental health, choosing to prioritize it over competition. Despite the challenges, Biles remains a strong competitor, scheduled to defend her Olympic title in the all-around final.

What change did Simone Biles make to her vault routine during the Tokyo Olympics?

• She added an extra twist.

• She simplified it from 2 1/2 twists to 1 1/2.

• She increased the difficulty level.

• She performed it with a blindfold.

What medal did Team USA win in the gymnastics team competition after Simone Biles withdrew?

• Gold

• Bronze

• No medal

• Silver

What unique history does Simone Biles have with Team USA Gymnastics?

• She is the only current member who survived the Larry Nassar scandal.

• She is the first gymnast to perform a quadruple twist.

• She is the youngest member of the team.

• She has never won an Olympic medal.

What did Simone Biles emphasize about mental health in her social media posts?

• It is not important for athletes.

• It should be prioritized over competitions.

• It is only important for gymnasts.

• It should be ignored during big events.

What event is Simone Biles still scheduled to compete in after withdrawing from the team event?

• The all-around final

• The floor exercise final

• The uneven bars final

• The balance beam final