Simone Biles, widely regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time, is hinting that her Olympic journey may be over. Following her triumphant return to the international stage at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Biles recently told Sports Illustrated she is leaning against competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Biles, who won three gold medals and a silver in Paris, expressed deep gratitude for her storied career. However, she shared concerns about what another Olympic bid might cost her personally. “Because I’ve accomplished so much, there’s almost nothing left to do, rather than to just be snobby and try again. For what?” Biles said. “I’m humble enough to know when to be done.”
Simone Biles Balancing Life and Legacy
Now 27, Biles has shifted her focus beyond gymnastics, reflecting on sacrifices and priorities. “If you go back, you’ll be greedy,” she said. “Those are the consequences. But that’s also your decision to decide.” She added, “When you’re younger, it’s prom, college. Now it’s starting a family, being away from my husband. What’s really worth it?”
Her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, and their future plans weigh heavily on her decision. Biles acknowledged that delaying starting a family is a significant consideration.
Despite these sentiments, Biles has not entirely ruled out returning. During a press conference after her gold-medal-winning vault in Paris, she left the door slightly ajar. “The next Olympics is at home, so you just never know. But I am getting really old,” she joked, referring to the Games being held in Los Angeles.
Biles, who would be 31 in 2028, would make history as the first American gymnast to compete in four Olympics. Yet, she feels her legacy is already secure. “I don’t think the reality has set in of what I’ve exactly done in the sport,” Biles said.
For now, she’s taking time to enjoy her achievements and focus on her personal life. Whether or not she returns in 2028, her impact on gymnastics will be felt for generations. As Biles said, “I’ll realize one day, looking back, how good I really was.”