Simone Biles' Leadership: Redefining the Image of Athletes [Forbes JAPAN]
This column is a full English translation of the article contributed to Forbes JAPAN on August 8th, 2021.
The Tokyo Olympics are coming to a close. While this year's Games have been challenging with no clear "norm," certain events have marked significant steps toward changing the culture of athletes. One such event was Simone Biles, the ace of the U.S. women's gymnastics team, announcing her withdrawal from the competition only to return in the final round.
Biles withdrew from the U.S. vault rotation in the women's team final on July 27 due to mental health issues. A week later, on August 2, she announced her return for the women's gymnastics event final, winning a bronze medal.
For an athlete of Biles' caliber, expected to win multiple medals, the period of her participation in the Olympics must have been tumultuous.
Biles Prioritized Mental Health
On July 27, Biles publicly stated that she would prioritize her mental health. Her presence at the press conference was powerful, as she candidly shared her decision.
Below are some of her comments:
“Put mental health first because if you don’t then you’re not going to enjoy your sport and you’re not going to succeed as much as you want to. So, it’s ok sometimes to even sit out the big competitions to focus on yourself. Because it shows how strong a competitor and person that you really are, rather than just battle through it.”
Her announcement of her withdrawal in her own words was a stark contrast to the stereotypical athlete of the past who would "risk everything for the Olympics."
During the press conference, she held her head high and appeared strong, but her facial movements seemed stiff, her eyes looked tense, and her eyebrows conveyed a sense of emotional strain. Her voice also sounded as if it was strained.
The most striking moment was when she spoke about "put mental health first." She raised her arms, previously resting on the desk, and folded them, hugging herself. It was evident that her breathing became slightly labored.
This gesture seemed to reflect her desire not to be asked any more questions while also doing her best to stay composed at that moment.
Inspired by Naomi Osaka's Decision
Although she probably anticipated some of the backlash, the decision to withdraw midway through the competition was met with intense criticism.
However, there is no need to push oneself to compete when in poor condition and risk further damage. If the dangers are significant and foreseeable, stopping is the right decision. This choice is important not only for immediate victory but for one's long-term well-being. Even if an athlete gives their all and compete, no one benefits if they become seriously injured and can no longer perform or live a normal life.
In fact, the twisties that Biles was experiencing is a phenomenon that could potentially result in life-threatening injuries. It is a mental condition where gymnasts feel "lost" in mid-air, and in Biles' case, she felt as if her mind and body were disconnected. This poses not only the risk of losing points from a failed technique but also the danger of landing incorrectly and suffering a severe injury on the hard floor.
Many people do not criticize someone who withdraws after sustaining a visible injury. In fact, such actions are often praised as sacrifices made for the team or the Olympics. However, there is an unhealthy ideology that fails to recognize or accept mental health issues, which are not as visible as physical injuries.
Despite this environment, Biles' decision to withdraw and speak out was influenced by the presence of tennis player Naomi Osaka. According to a tweet by Ian Herbert (@ianherbs) of the Daily Mail, Biles was inspired by Osaka, who withdrew from the French Open, prioritizing her mental health.
Bronze Medal Made Me Proud of Myself
Following her withdrawal, Biles participated in the women’s gymnastics balance beam final on August 3. The expression and demeanor she displayed before the balance beam exuded a sense of solitude and tension that was palpable to many.
When she completed her routine and landed safely, her relieved and happy expression, as she smiled and waved, conveyed a sense of accomplishment and relief that likely surpassed the satisfaction of a perfect performance. She earned a special bronze medal, one that holds irreplaceable value.
Her successful return and performance not only marked the end of a challenging week following her withdrawal announcement but also symbolized her triumph over numerous hardships endured beforehand. Her words at the press conference, “All the hard work I have done so far has paid off, and I am proud of myself,” reflect this newfound confidence.
While it was difficult to read her facial expressions due to her mask, her hands remained under the table, and she did not cross her arms. Her voice sounded much calmer compared to when she announced her withdrawal.
Biles also stated, “We have to look at ourselves as well. We have to protect our minds and bodies, not just go out and do what the world wants us to do.”
Athletes are human beings. Her actions reminded us that even super athletes like her face real challenges.
This courageous decision and action have undoubtedly become a milestone in steering the athlete community toward a better direction.
"A Presence That Sends a Powerful Message to the World"
The Olympics, a grand stage held once every four years, saw athletes pushing themselves beyond their limits, especially with this year’s extended timeline.
While the Olympics are undoubtedly significant, they are just one event in a long life. In the grand scheme of things, one could say, "It's just the Olympics." Life doesn't end with the Tokyo Games. To ensure a fulfilling and happy life, both as an athlete and as an individual, significant investment in oneself is sometimes necessary. There are times when pushing beyond limits holds value, but it is not always the case.
This principle extends beyond the Olympics and sports. It applies to general society as well. While giving your best is important, if it leads to breaking down irreparably, it takes courage to step back at the first sign of trouble. This is essential for continuing to lead a better life.
Biles stated, "People perform at their best when they have a healthy mind and body." She has become more than just a popular American athlete. She has become a presence that communicates the importance of self-care to everyone and sends a powerful message to the world.
We hope this will spark further awareness and lead to positive evolution in the future of athletes.
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