Flipping the script: Biles praised for mental health stance

US gymnast withdrew from the team and individual all-around Olympic events, saying her mental health took precedence.

US gymnastics superstar Simone Biles shocked the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by withdrawing from women’s team and individual all-around contests, in which she was considered a top contender, over what she said were “mental health concerns”. The 24-year-old has received widespread praise for bringing attention to mental health, dispelling the stigma that remains around the issue, and highlighting the immense pressure put on elite athletes. National figures, including former US First Lady Michelle Obama, fellow athletes, and commentators have supported the decision taken by Biles, often lauded as the best gymnast of all time.