Gary Lineker has leapt to the defence of Simone Biles after the four-time Olympic gold medalist was criticised for her withdrawal from events based on mental health issues.
The 24-year-old's decision to pull out of both the team event and the individual all-around final has been the source of much discussion on social media.
Some people have lauded the athlete's bravery, while others have accused Biles of using mental health as an excuse for not living up to expectation.
Lineker was keen to emphasise his support for the American:
"As a former sportsperson that was fortunate enough to not suffer with mental health issues, it’s hard to comprehend what it must be like for those that do," he tweeted.
"For those that have never participated in elite level sport, it must be even harder to understand… you’d have thought."
The defence comes after comments made by Lineker's long-term Twitter foe and one of the most vociferous critics Piers Morgan, who questioned the motives behind Biles' sudden decision.
Morgan had earlier tweeted: "Are ‘mental health issues’ now the go-to excuse for any poor performance in elite sport? What a joke. Just admit you did badly, made mistakes, and will strive to do better next time. Kids need strong role models not this nonsense."
Lineker was far from the only person to defend Biles' actions. Double Olympic champion Max Whitlock MBE posted his own message of support, writing: "You've pushed boundaries time and time again. Rest up and take time."
Biles spoke candidly on the matter in a press conference after Team USA picked up silver in the team final.
She said: "After the performance I did, I just didn't want to go on. I have to focus on my mental health. I just think mental health is more prevalent in sports right now.
"We have to protect our minds and our bodies and not just go out and do what the world wants us to do.
"I don't trust myself as much anymore. Maybe it's getting older. There were a couple of days when everybody tweets you and you feel the weight of the world."
The gymnast has the full support of the US Olympic team, with chief executive Sarah Hirshland stating: "We applaud your decision to prioritise your mental wellness over all else and offer you the full support and resources of our Team USA community as you navigate the journey ahead."
Biles qualified for the finals of all five individual events. It is as yet unknown whether or not she will compete in the vault and uneven bars on Sunday, the floor on Monday or the beam on Tuesday.
