Simone Biles is inarguably one of the greatest Olympians of her time. But when it comes to the 2028 Games, questions remain about her participation. Biles took home three gold medals and a silver in Paris last year, cementing her status as the most decorated gymnast in U.S. history. However after so many years on the mat, the 28-year-old also wants to listen to her body too. In an interview with the French newspaper L’Equipe, Biles talked about the chances of her competing on the world stage again and it still seems very much up in the air.
“I’m really trying to enjoy life, to spend time with my husband [Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens], go support him at his games, live my life as a woman,” she said Tuesday, via the Associated Press. “I’ve accomplished so much in my sport. For me to come back, it would really have to excite me.”
Even if she’s in Los Angeles for the Games, Biles says she doesn’t know in what form that will be. “Whether on the apparatus or in the stands, I still don’t know that,” she shared. “But 2028 seems so far away, and my body is aging. I felt it in Paris.” “I went back to the village, I took the elevator and my body literally collapsed. I was sick for 10 days,” Biles recalled. “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.”
A Legacy in Motion
Simone Biles is more than just a gymnast—she’s a global icon, a trailblazer, and a force of nature who has redefined the boundaries of athletic excellence. Recently, her announcement regarding the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics sent shockwaves across the sports world, sparking speculation, excitement, and plenty of heated debates. Will she compete on home soil, or is she ready to pass the torch?
In this article, we’ll break down what Simone Biles revealed, what it means for gymnastics, and why her words resonate far beyond the arena.
Who Is Simone Biles? A Quick Recap for the Uninitiated
Before diving into her latest announcement, let’s rewind for a moment. Simone Biles isn’t just another Olympian—she’s the most decorated gymnast of all time, holding 30 Olympic and World Championship medals. Known for her gravity-defying flips and unbeatable consistency, she has transformed gymnastics into a global spectacle.
Her influence extends beyond medals. She’s a voice for mental health awareness, a role model for young athletes, and a living reminder that greatness isn’t just about winning—it’s about resilience.
The Big Question: 2028 Olympics—Yes or No?
When Simone Biles addressed her future, everyone leaned in. After years of dominating the sport and inspiring millions, the spotlight shifted toward one burning question:
👉 Will Simone Biles compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics?
Her announcement wasn’t just a casual statement—it was a carefully measured response that reflects where she is in her life, both personally and professionally.
Her Official Statement on 2028 Olympics
Simone revealed that while she remains deeply committed to gymnastics, she hasn’t fully committed to competing in 2028. She emphasized that her focus right now is on Paris 2024, where she aims to once again showcase her unmatched talent.
As for 2028, her words hinted at possibility rather than certainty:
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She acknowledged the appeal of competing in Los Angeles, on home turf, in front of an American crowd.
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She admitted that her decision would depend on her mental and physical health, priorities that she’s placed front and center since Tokyo 2021.
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She left the door open—without making promises.
Why This Announcement Matters
Simone’s statement is more than just sports news—it’s cultural news. Here’s why it’s a big deal:
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A Home Olympics – LA 2028 represents a once-in-a-lifetime chance for American athletes to compete on their own soil.
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A Living Legend’s Legacy – Will she add to her already historic record, or shift toward mentoring the next generation?
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Mental Health Advocacy – Her decision underscores a broader conversation about athletes prioritizing well-being over pressure.
The Gymnastics World Reacts
The gymnastics community was quick to react to Biles’ statement:
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Fans expressed hope and excitement, with many begging her to compete “just one more time.”
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Fellow athletes applauded her honesty, acknowledging how difficult it is to balance career longevity with personal health.
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Experts weighed in, noting that if anyone could pull off a comeback at 31 (her age in 2028), it’s Simone Biles.
Simone Biles and the Power of Choice
What makes Biles’ announcement powerful is her refusal to be pressured into a yes-or-no answer. Unlike past Olympians who often announced firm retirements or comebacks, Simone is keeping control of her narrative.
She’s showing the world that her decision won’t be based on expectation but on what feels right for her body and mind.
The Road to Paris 2024: A Key Factor
One reason she’s not committing yet is that her eyes are locked on Paris 2024. Her performance there could determine whether she feels ready to extend her career another four years.
Paris could be:
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A victory lap, cementing her GOAT status even further.
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A testing ground, giving her insight into whether she can push through to 2028.
The Age Factor: Can Simone Compete at 31?
In gymnastics, most athletes peak in their teens or early twenties. By 31, many are long retired. But Simone Biles is no ordinary athlete.
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She redefines “limits”—her routines already feature skills named after her that no one else dares to attempt.
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Her training discipline and evolving approach to recovery could make a 2028 appearance realistic.
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Historical precedent shows that while rare, older gymnasts have competed successfully on the world stage.
Her Mental Health Journey: A Game-Changer
After the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, Biles stepped back from multiple events, citing “the twisties” and mental health struggles. That moment reshaped how athletes—and the public—talk about mental health.
By placing her well-being over medals, she sent a clear message: athletes are human first. Her 2028 decision will likely reflect this same philosophy.
The LA 2028 Hype: Why It’s So Tempting
The Los Angeles Games carry unique weight:
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Competing at Home – There’s nothing like performing in front of family, friends, and home fans.
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Legacy Opportunity – A chance to end her career in the U.S., where her journey began.
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Cultural Impact – Imagine Simone Biles leading Team USA into the opening ceremony—it would be iconic.
If She Doesn’t Compete: The Other Side of the Coin
What if Biles decides not to compete?
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She could transition into coaching and mentorship, shaping the next generation.
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She might focus on advocacy work, continuing to push for athlete mental health reforms.
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She could expand her brand and influence, writing books, launching initiatives, or even working in broadcasting.
Either way, her presence will loom large over the 2028 Games.
The Bigger Picture: Redefining Retirement in Sports
Biles’ announcement highlights a shift in how we view athletic careers. Retirement is no longer a strict endpoint; it’s a flexible timeline. For some, it’s a pause. For others, it’s a transition.
Simone is showing athletes everywhere that stepping away doesn’t mean stepping down—it means making space for what truly matters.
Fans’ Emotional Connection: Why This Hits Hard
For millions, Simone Biles isn’t just an athlete—they’ve grown up watching her. Her routines became viral moments, her struggles became public lessons, and her triumphs became sources of national pride.
Her 2028 status matters not just because of medals, but because of the personal bond fans feel with her journey.
The Countdown Begins: What Happens Next?
So, what’s next for Simone Biles?
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She’ll train for Paris 2024.
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She’ll reassess her body, mind, and passion for gymnastics.
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She’ll decide, in her own time, whether 2028 will be part of her story.
For now, all we can do is wait, support, and cheer her on—because whether she competes or not, her legacy is already untouchable.
Conclusion: A Story Still Being Written
Simone Biles’ announcement about the 2028 Olympics wasn’t a yes or a no—it was a reminder that greatness doesn’t always come with clear answers. Whether she competes in Los Angeles or not, her impact on gymnastics, mental health awareness, and sports culture is already etched in history.
