Simone Biles.Photo:Naomi Baker/Getty
Naomi Baker/Getty
EvenSimone Bileshas been surprised with how impressive she remains on the mat.
The four-time Olympic gold medalist, 26, made her return to competition earlier this year, adding both another national and world championship gold medal to her pile of career accomplishments.Biles' dominant return led to herbeing namedthe Associated Press' “AP Female Athlete of the Year” for a third time in her career, as expectations she’ll compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics continue to ramp up.Biles, who previously won the award in 2016 and 2019, has approached her return humbly, however.
“I did a lot better than I thought I would do,” Biles told the AP, admitting a bit of uncertainty upon her return.
The next month, Biles addedher sixth all-around title at the world championships, officially becoming the most decorated gymnast in history.
“It means everything to me, the fight, everything that I’ve put in to get back to this place, feel comfortable and confident enough to compete,” an emotional Bilessaidafter taking home another gold.
Simone Biles.Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty
Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty
Biles said she’s been trying to relish in the moment of her career a bit more since returning to the sport, as well.“Every day I try to think about it, especially in therapy when we talk about it,” Biles told the AP after winning her sixth gold at the world championships. “And I think that’s when all the emotions come up. And I really think about what I’ve done and what we’ve done to the sport and push that forward. So I think it’s really exciting. But all in all, I don’t think it will hit me until I retire and then look back and see everything I’ve done.”
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Even without the gold medals and dramatic career return, Biles has had a memorable 2023 as family has come into focus.
She and NFL safety Jonathan Owens officiallytied the knoton April 22. And in October, Biles toldTodayher perspective on life has since shifted.
“Gymnastics is just something I get to come in and have the privilege of doing,” Biles said. “I don’t feel like it’s the end all be all anymore, as before I kind of felt like that. Iget to go home to my husband, to my dogs, to my house and all of the things. So it feels really good.”
source: people.com
