Simone Biles withdraws from Tokyo Olympics final due to medical injury

The U.S. women’s gymnastics team took home silver on Tuesday after Simone Biles withdrew from the team finals during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The Russian Olympic Committee came out victorious winning gold, but even after an injury, that didn’t stop team USA from ranking second.

In an official statement by USA Gymnastics, they explained that “Simone Biles has withdrawn from the team final competition due to a medical issue. She will be assessed daily to determine medical clearance for future competitions."

Much like Olympic gymnast Oksana Chusovitina, Simone has proven to be a force to be reckoned with in gymnastics, even qualifying for every women’s gymnastics category this year. For those wondering when Simone is competing in the Olympics, due to her injury she’s currently taking things “day by day.”

Following her withdrawal from the final team competition, Simone hinted that it was the pressure that had gotten to her.

“Physically, I feel good," she told Hoda Kotb on the TODAY show. "Emotionally it varies on the time and moment. Coming to the Olympics and being head star isn't an easy feat."

The gymnast also took to Instagram to explain the anxiety she sometimes gets when faced with “the weight of the world on [her] shoulders.” Bringing home the gold has put added pressure onto the athlete, making us question how much an Olympic medal is worth. The support of her family has continued to help her push through though.

“It wasn’t an easy day or my best but I got through it,” she wrote. “I truly do feel like I have the weight of the world on my shoulders at times. I know I brush it off and make it seem like pressure doesn’t affect me but damn sometimes it’s hard hahaha! The Olympics are no joke! BUT I’m happy my family was able to be with me virtually, they mean the world to me!”

In response, celebrities and figures including Hoda Kotb and Jamaican Olympic gymnast Danusia Francis shared their support.

“Someone said it best. @Simone_Biles already won.  She is a class act.  Withdrew from team competition after vault... stayed and cheered on her teammates... got them chalk for their hands.. encouraged.. hugged them.  She already won. Congrats on the silver medal!” wrote Hoda.

"Don’t know about you but I think @Simone_Biles just empowered everyone to put their mental well-being above everything else. WHAT A QUEEN. GOAT in more ways than one," shared Danusia.