Simone Biles returns home victorious after competing in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. As she stepped into her hometown of Houston, Texas, the Olympic gymnast received nothing short of a hero’s welcome.
The 24-year-old flew into Houston on Thursday and was welcomed by her parents, siblings, and crowds of roaring fans. The outpouring of support comes after Biles suddenly had to withdraw from the Tokyo Olympics team finals due to her mental health and a case of the “twisties” (when gymnasts experience a disconnect between their mind and body while hurtling through the air).
She took to Instagram to share her excitement for finally being home as she embraced her family.
“Houston, I’m home,” she captioned the photos of her hugging her parents.
From the airport a parade of people awaited her waving signs and placards as she drove home.
“The moment all these kids have been waiting for @Simone_Biles driving by,” tweeted KHOU anchor Xavier Walton.
The moment all these kids have been waiting for @Simone_Biles driving by #Simone @KHOU pic.twitter.com/3Jv8qDlKVmAugust 5, 2021
Many came to the Olympic gymnast’s support as she took a break to focus on her mental health during the games. Even Michelle Obama responded with a wise “mantra” in regards to the importance the athlete put her mental health first. While this had most of us questioning when Biles will compete again, she didn’t keep us waiting and was eventually confirmed to return to the Olympic Games.
After overcoming the pressure she felt going into the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Simone Biles still added Olympic medals to her collection. Though she didn’t take home any gold this year, she was able to score a silver medal for the Olympic team finals and a bronze medal for her beam performance.
“Not at all how I imagined or dreamed my second olympics would go but blessed to represent the USA. I’ll forever cherish this unique Olympic experience. Thanks everyone for the endless love and support. I’m truly grateful,” she posted on Instagram.
Simone Biles still walks away a champion though as she still stands as the most decorated Olympic gymnast and now a seven-time Olympic medalist.
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