Simone Biles Withdraws From Team Competition in Tokyo

Some shocking Team USA gymnastics news… Gymnast Simone Biles withdrew from the women’s gymnastics team event this morning due to a ‘medical issue’ according to USA gymnastics. Biles ‘bailed out of her vault’ and withdrew from the team after leaving the field to be attended to by a trainer. In an official statement, the team said “She will be assessed daily to determine medical clearance for future competitions.” The individual events for gymnasts will be held on Thursday and hopefully Biles will be able to return to compete for those.

Following her withdrawal she was treated by a trainer then returned to the arena to cheer on her teammates from the sidelines. Teammate Jordan Chiles stepped in for her on the beam and was able to close the gap between Team USA and Russia but ultimately Russia went on to win the gold medal at the event while Team USA brought home the silver medal. Following Russia’s win, Simone broke down in tears while explaining her decision saying “whenever you get in a high stress situation, you kind of freak out. I have to focus on my mental health and not jeopardize my health and well-being.”