Simone Biles Confronts Greatest Fear in Netflix Rising Series
Simone Biles, renowned for her awe-inspiring feats in gymnastics, has opened up about her greatest fear: the potential for a career-ending injury. In the second episode of Netflix’s “Rising” series, Biles reveals the intense pressure and stakes involved in attempting one of the most difficult vaults in women’s gymnastics, the Yurchenko double pike.
The Yurchenko double pike, known for its extreme difficulty, has been a defining challenge in Biles’s career. Despite her efforts, she couldn’t complete it successfully in 2021. The vault, lasting only around six seconds, can make or break a gymnast’s career. Biles candidly discusses the ever-present fear of paralysis that comes with such high-risk maneuvers.
Biles’s struggle with the “twisties”—a disorienting sensation experienced mid-air—became widely known after she withdrew from the team final at the Tokyo Olympics. She first encountered the twisties in early 2019, which severely impacted her ability to twist and flip. “Rising” season 2 documents her journey post-Tokyo, showcasing her resilience and determination to overcome these challenges.
In October 2023, Biles made a triumphant return at an international competition in Antwerp, Belgium. Clad in a glittering blue leotard, she boldly approached the vault, determined to conquer the Yurchenko double pike. Commentators highlighted the uniqueness and difficulty of her attempt, emphasizing that no other woman was attempting such a feat. Biles admitted to being nervous, reflecting on the two-year gap since her last international competition and the memories of Tokyo.
Simone Biles’s story is one of extraordinary talent and immense courage, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible in gymnastics. Her journey, filled with highs and lows, inspires countless athletes and fans worldwide. “Rising” offers a deep dive into her relentless pursuit of excellence, shedding light on the fears and challenges she faces along the way.
