Michelle Obama has sent a heartwarming message to Simone Biles in light of her withdrawal from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics—and it's advice we all could hear every now and then.
The former First Lady took to Twitter to share some wise words with the elite US gymnast, who has dropped out of two of the competition's events for mental health reasons. Simone removed herself from the individual all-around final today, having already pulled out of the team event gymnastics final on Tuesday.
Simone Biles has removed herself from two gymnastic events in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics
The difficult decision to prioritize her mental wellbeing at this high-pressure time has earned the 24-year-old praise from many fans, including Michelle Obama herself. The Becoming author wrote a sweet note to Simone following her second withdrawal, along with a helpful dose of practical advice.
"Am I good enough? Yes, I am. The mantra I practice daily," Michelle posted. "@Simone_Biles we are proud of you and we are rooting for you. Congratulations on the silver medal, Team @USA!"
Am I good enough? Yes, I am. The mantra I practice daily. @Simone_Biles, we are proud of you and we are rooting for you. Congratulations on the the silver medal, Team @USA! 🎊July 28, 2021
Simone stunned the gymnastics community on Tuesday when she abruptly dropped out of the team competition, admitting she "freaked out in a high-pressure situation." After failing to complete her Amanar and stumbling on her Yurchenko vault, she left the performance floor and watched the remainder of the event from the sidelines.
Simone later took to Instagram to shower her squad with gratitude after coming second to the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC), who took home the Gold with a three-point lead.
"I’m SO proud of these girls right here," she wrote. "You girls are incredibly brave & talented! I’ll forever be inspired by your determination to not give up and to fight through adversity! They stepped up when I couldn’t. thanks for being there for me and having my back! forever love y’all."
The four-time Olympian Gold medalist was expected to compete in four other finals over the coming week, including the floor exercise, beam, uneven bars, and vault.
Simone spoke out about her shocking departure that evening, refuting the initial claims that she was suffering from a medical injury.
"Physically, I feel good. I'm in shape," she told NBC's TODAY. "Emotionally, it varies on the time and moment. Coming to the Olympics and being head star isn't an easy feat."
It remains unclear whether or not Simone will compete in Thursday’s all-round final, but it looks like her top concern at the moment is her mental health. When asked by reporters what her goals for the Olympics are, she replied, "To focus on my wellbeing. There is more to life than just gymnastics."
