Simone Biles says she would not change anything about her experience at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics despite the challenges she had to overcome.
The US gymnast pulled out of several events - five out of the six finals - at the Games this summer as she was suffering from a mental block called the "twisties".
Twisties sees competitors lose their sense of spatial awareness while performing complex routines.
After participating in the team all-around event in which she helped her team bag a silver medal, Biles took some time out before returning to feature in the balance beam competition.
With the world watching, the 24-year-old showed her class and determination as she overcame all odds to win the bronze medal.
Despite the challenges she faced and being unable to compete as much as she would like, the US superstar has no regrets from her time in Tokyo.
“I wouldn’t change anything for the world,” said Biles.
“I gave an outlet for athletes to speak up about their mental health and their well-being and learn that you can put yourself (as a person) first before the athlete.”
The multi-time world champion explained the reason for her mental block was possibly an accumulation of issues she had previously faced.
The American added: “I mean, I’m in therapy. I go to therapy pretty religiously.
“And it’s just something that took hold of me (where) your body and your mind tells you when enough is enough.”
Biles received a hero's welcome upon returning to the States and was overwhelmed by the support she had received after telling the world what she was going through.
“It’s been so supportive, so loving, which I really wasn’t expecting,” she said, even comparing it to the reaction when she left Rio with four gold medals.
Learning the sad news of her Aunt’s passing during the Olympics coupled with her mental block, it made Biles’ silver and bronze medals from Tokyo arguably the most cherished of her huge collection.
Next month the gymnast will feature in the post-Olympic Gold Over America Tour, a 35-city exhibition that will incorporate gymnastics and dance elements while focusing on the importance of taking care of your mental wellbeing.
