American viewers watching the Paris Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony noticed the absence of a key athlete: Simone Biles.
Among over 500 American Olympians introduced on a giant boat, the four-time Gymnastics Gold Medalist was missing.
Speculation quickly spread on social media, especially given that high-profile athletes like LeBron James attended and even served as America’s flag bearer.
The absence of such a prominent figure led to many questions.
Simone Biles is not injured, nor is she making any political statement. Her parents clarified during the NBC broadcast that Biles and the women’s gymnastics team were excused from the ceremony to rest for their first competition on Sunday.
“The first competition is Sunday, which is a women’s qualifier, so of course, she needs to rest up before that competition,” explained Nellie Biles, Simone’s mother.
“I spoke to her this morning, and she’s doing great. She’s just in a really good place.”
During the broadcast, Biles’ mother even FaceTimed her along with Snoop Dogg and NBC host Hoda Kotb, despite the pouring rain, to send good luck wishes ahead of Sunday’s qualifiers.
Logistical Challenges for Gymnasts
Athletes were informed that the Opening Ceremony could keep them on their feet for up to nine hours, a physically demanding duration unsuitable for gymnasts preparing for competition.
The continuous downpour that left attendees soaked only added to the challenges. Consequently, not only Biles but also fellow gymnasts Suni Lee, Hezly Rivera, Jordan Chiles, and Jade Carey opted out of the ceremony to conserve their energy.
Biles‘ decision to rest also recalls her experience at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she withdrew from several events due to experiencing “the twisties,” a condition that affects gymnasts’ spatial awareness.
Despite the criticism she faced, Biles returned to win a bronze medal in the balance beam final. Critics who accused her of letting her team down were met with backlash from those who understand the sport’s mental and physical demands.
In recent practice sessions, reports indicate that Biles is more focused and determined than ever, ready to prove her doubters wrong.
The women’s gymnastics qualifying round, starting on Sunday at 3:30 am Eastern, will provide her the platform to showcase her readiness and resilience.
Simone Biles‘ absence from the Opening Ceremony was a strategic decision to ensure peak performance, reflecting her dedication and the meticulous planning necessary for Olympic success.
