Simone Biles Reveals Feeling ‘Jailed’ Before Olympics Amid Nassar Abuse Scandal
In a candid and controversial revelation, Simone Biles, widely regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time, has opened up about the profound mental and emotional struggles she faced before the Olympics. Biles, who is preparing for her third Olympic Games in Paris this month, described feeling “jailed” by her own mind and body due to the trauma inflicted by former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar.
Already the most decorated gymnast in history with 37 medals, Biles stands on the brink of becoming the most honored Olympic gymnast in U.S. history if she wins a single medal in Paris. However, her journey back to the pinnacle of gymnastics has been fraught with personal challenges.
The 27-year-old’s story will be detailed in the forthcoming Netflix docuseries “Simone Biles Rising,” set to debut on July 17. The series delves into the disturbing details of Biles’ connection to Nassar, who sexually assaulted more than 250 girls and young women under the guise of medical treatment. Nassar is now imprisoned for life.
Biles’ controversial withdrawal from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics was a direct result of the abuse she endured. She told NBC News, “I don’t want another young gymnast, or Olympic athlete, or any individual to experience the horror that I and hundreds of others have endured.”
The abuse left Biles with a complete lack of confidence in herself and her abilities. She admitted that repressing the trauma only exacerbated her suffering. It wasn’t until 2023 that she felt capable of truly competing again.
Reflecting on her mental state during that dark period, Biles said, “It felt like I was in jail with my own brain and body.” Her resilience and determination to return to the sport demonstrate her incredible strength and dedication.
As Biles prepares to compete in what could be her final Olympics, her story of overcoming adversity will inspire many and shed light on the importance of addressing trauma and mental health in sports.
