In a recent interview with French outlet L’Équipe, the Olympic gold medalist opened up about her evolving relationship with gymnastics and the possibility of competing at the Los Angeles Games. The interview was published just ahead of the 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid, where Biles was honored as Sportswoman of the Year.
For now, Biles told L’Équipe she is focusing on life outside of competition, supporting her husband — NFL player Jonathan Owens — and prioritizing her physical and emotional well-being. “I’m trying to enjoy life, travel, spend time with my husband, and really live as a woman,” Biles said. “To return, it would have to be something that genuinely excites me.”
While she plans to attend the 2028 Olympics in some capacity, Biles said it’s too soon to say whether she’ll be on the mat or cheering from the sidelines. “The Games are still so far away,” she noted. “My body is changing, and I felt it in Paris.” At the Paris Olympics, Biles once again proved her dominance in the sport, earning three gold medals and a silver and bringing her total record-breaking haul of Olympic medals to 11. But she also acknowledged the toll the sport takes on her body, recalling moments of fatigue and aches that lingered long after competition.
“After Paris, I returned to the Olympic Village and literally collapsed,” she said. “I was sick for days. Even after sprinting in the backyard with friends, I was sore for three days.” Biles, who has long used her platform to advocate for mental health, said she remains proud of the conversations she’s helped start, and plans to keep using her voice, no matter what the future holds. She also gave credit to Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade, who she said helped push her to new heights. Still, Biles said that the sport doesn’t need both of them to thrive.
The Uncertain Future of a Legend
Simone Biles — the name that defines excellence, resilience, and pure athletic artistry. With a record-breaking collection of Olympic and World Championship medals, she’s not just a gymnast; she’s a global phenomenon. Yet recently, Biles hinted that her future in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics might not be guaranteed.
This revelation stunned fans worldwide. Could the most decorated gymnast of all time really step away before competing on home soil? Let’s dive deep into what she said, what it means, and how her journey has shaped this uncertainty.
Who Is Simone Biles? A Quick Look at the GOAT of Gymnastics
Before exploring her doubts about 2028, it’s worth revisiting who Simone Biles truly is. Born in Columbus, Ohio, and raised in Texas, Biles transformed gymnastics forever with her explosive power, gravity-defying flips, and unmatched consistency.
With 7 Olympic medals and over 30 World Championship medals, she’s not just the most decorated American gymnast — she’s arguably the greatest in history.
But behind the medals lies a story of perseverance, mental strength, and an athlete who has redefined what it means to be human.
Biles’ Stunning Statement on the 2028 Olympics
In a recent interview, Biles revealed that she’s “not sure” whether she’ll compete in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
“I take it one step at a time,” she said. “I’m focusing on the present. 2028 feels so far away.”
This candid response reflects a more reflective and grounded version of Simone — one who understands her limits, priorities, and mental health needs.
Why Simone Biles Might Skip 2028
1. The Physical Toll of Gymnastics
Gymnastics isn’t just hard — it’s brutal. Years of training, flips, and landings take a toll on the body. At 31 in 2028, Biles would be competing at an age when most gymnasts have already retired.
Her remarkable longevity in the sport is already historic. But maintaining that level for another Olympic cycle would require unimaginable physical and emotional dedication.
2. Mental Health and Balance
After the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, Biles became a global advocate for mental health awareness. She openly shared her struggles with anxiety and the “twisties” — a dangerous mental block that affects spatial awareness in midair.
Her openness changed the narrative around athletes’ mental health forever. It’s clear she doesn’t want to compromise her well-being for another medal.
3. Shifting Priorities
Simone Biles is now married to NFL player Jonathan Owens, and her focus has evolved. She’s enjoying her personal life, exploring new ventures, and finding joy beyond gymnastics.
That shift in priorities is natural for an athlete who’s already achieved everything imaginable.
A Home Olympics: The Temptation of 2028
Of course, the idea of competing in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics — on home soil, in front of American fans — is undeniably tempting.
It would be a storybook ending to a once-in-a-generation career. The cheers, the flags, the standing ovations — it’s the kind of moment every athlete dreams of.
But as Biles herself has said, “Dreams evolve.” And perhaps hers no longer revolve around Olympic podiums.
The Legacy She’s Already Built
Simone Biles doesn’t need another gold medal to cement her legacy. She’s already done that — several times over.
Her name is etched in gymnastics history, with four skills named after her (the “Biles” moves) — an honor few athletes ever achieve.
Beyond her technical brilliance, she’s a role model who’s shown the world that strength isn’t just physical — it’s also about knowing when to step back.
How Simone Biles Changed the Conversation on Athlete Wellness
Before Biles, mental health in sports was often ignored or stigmatized. Her courage to withdraw from Olympic events in Tokyo 2021 wasn’t a sign of weakness — it was a revolutionary act.
She reminded the world that even the strongest athletes are human. That vulnerability has since empowered countless others to speak up and prioritize well-being over medals.
Fans’ Reactions: Love, Support, and Respect
When the news broke that Biles might skip 2028, fans responded with overwhelming support.
Social media flooded with messages like, “You’ve already given us everything,” and “Do what makes you happy, Simone.”
It’s clear the world no longer sees her just as a gymnast — but as an icon, advocate, and inspiration.
Could We Still See Biles in a Different Role?
Even if she doesn’t compete, Biles could still be a major part of the 2028 Games — as a coach, commentator, or ambassador.
Her presence alone would electrify the event, inspiring the next generation of gymnasts to chase greatness.
The Next Generation Inspired by Simone Biles
Young stars like Sunisa Lee, Jordan Chiles, and Shilese Jones have all credited Biles as their inspiration.
She opened the door for Black and minority athletes, breaking stereotypes and barriers that once limited representation in gymnastics.
Her impact isn’t fading — it’s multiplying.
The Businesswoman and Advocate Beyond the Mat
Simone Biles has leveraged her platform to promote self-care, women’s empowerment, and athlete advocacy.
Through partnerships with brands like Athleta and her involvement in charitable work, she’s redefining what it means to be an athlete in the modern era.
She’s not just a gymnast anymore — she’s a movement.
What 2028 Could Mean for Gymnastics Without Biles
If Biles chooses not to compete, the gymnastics world will feel her absence. But her influence will still echo through every routine, every flip, and every standing ovation.
She’s raised the bar — literally and figuratively — for generations to come.
The Bigger Picture: Knowing When to Step Away
Athletes like Biles teach us that greatness isn’t just about winning — it’s about self-awareness, balance, and courage.
Saying “no” to one more Olympic run doesn’t diminish her legacy. If anything, it proves her humanity and wisdom.
Conclusion: Simone’s Story Isn’t Over Yet
Simone Biles’ uncertainty about the 2028 Olympics isn’t an ending — it’s an evolution. Whether she competes again or not, her impact transcends medals, scores, and podiums.
She’s inspired millions to chase excellence while staying true to themselves. And that, more than any gold medal, is her greatest victory.
