Gap backs Biles over decision to put her mental health first

Gap is standing by its star athlete endorser Simone Biles after she withdrew from the gymnastics team competition at the Tokyo Olympics.

Gap Inc. is backing the decision by its star athlete endorser Simone Biles to put her mental health first and sit out the gymnastics team competition at the Tokyo Olympics. “We stand by Simone and support her wellbeing both in and out of competition,” Kyle Andrew, chief brand officer for Gap’s Athleta line, said Tuesday in a statement. “Being the best also means knowing how to take care of yourself. We are inspired by her leadership today and are behind her every step of the way.” The world’s pre-eminent gymnast, age 24, pulled out of the team competition after faltering on a vault, citing her state of mind and the risk of injury. Her team went on to win a silver medal.