Simone Biles Uncertain About Competing in Los Angeles Olympics 2028

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Seven-time Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles is uncertain if she will compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. In an interview with French sports daily L'Equipe published on Tuesday, the 28-year-old gymnast discussed her priorities and concerns about her body as she ages.

“I’m really trying to enjoy life, to spend time with my husband, go support him at his games, live my life as a woman,” Biles said. She emphasized that for her to return to gymnastics, it must excite her. Biles will be 31 when the Olympics begin.

Biles noted the long commitment required for Olympic preparation, stating, “A lot of people think it’s just a one-year commitment, but it truly is the four years leading up to the Olympics.” While she expressed excitement about the games being in Los Angeles, she remains uncertain about her participation. “If I’m going to compete again, I’m not so sure,” she said.

She plans to attend the Games, albeit unsure in what capacity. “Whether on the apparatus or in the stands, I still don’t know that. But 2028 seems so far away, and my body is aging. I felt it in Paris,” she added, referring to the toll of her recent competitions.

At the Paris Olympics, Biles won three gold medals and a silver, bringing her total Olympic medals to 11. However, she revealed the strenuous preparation took a toll on her health. “I went back to the village, I took the elevator and my body literally collapsed. I was sick for 10 days,” she recounted.

Biles praised her rival, Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade, for her resilience and added that gymnastics may benefit from a new generation of athletes. “It only needs one of us, no? Especially since [Andrade] will not be alone,” she said.

In the midst of contemplating her future, Biles continues to advocate for mental health awareness. She withdrew from events at the Tokyo Olympics to focus on her mental well-being and aims to be a voice for others. “I am very proud of the work accomplished to reach this point,” she stated, “and I will continue to be the voice of the voiceless.”