Simone Biles Says She Was ‘a Lot Happier’ at Paris 2024 Than Previous Olympics: ‘It’s Pure Joy’

Mar. 15, 2025

Simone Biles at the 2024 Paris Olympics.Photo:Aytac Unal/Anadolu via Getty

Aytac Unal/Anadolu via Getty

The2024 Paris Olympicswill always hold a special place inSimone Biles’ heart!

“This time around was really special,” Biles said, perToday. “I’m a lot happier and I chose to do this. So at the end of the day, whatever happens, happens. But I’m in a good spot mentally and physically, so you can’t take that away from me. So whenever I’m out there, it’s just pure joy. Can’t believe I’m out there again, competing."

“The legacy, I feel like, is just having fun, doing what you love …” Biles continued. “It’s worth it because … You work your whole entire life for moments like this to represent your country on an Olympic stage, and we did just that this weekend. So we’re so proud.”

Simone Biles with her four Olympic medals in Paris.Jamie Squire/Getty

Jamie Squire/Getty

The athlete, who is themost decorated U.S. gymnast in Olympic history, alsofell during the balance beam finalon Monday and placed in 5th position with a score of 13.100.

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Simone Biles competing on the beat in the women’s all-around final in Paris.Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

Speaking In a press conference after the floor final, Biles told reporters she was immensely proud of her performance, especially considering the difficult road she’d had in getting herself back into competition shape.

“I’ve accomplished way more than my wildest dreams, not just as this Olympics, but in this sport,” she said. “I can’t be mad at my performances. A couple of years ago I didn’t think I’d be back here at an Olympic games.”

Biles was forced towithdraw from several eventsat the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 after she was struck with a bout of the"twisties,“which made it difficult for her to safely perform her highly technical flips.

“Competing and then walking away with four medals, I’m not mad about it,” she added of her comeback. “I’m pretty proud of myself, and it’s always so exciting to compete.”

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Simone Biles poses with her gold medal from the women’s all-around final and her goat necklace.Jamie Squire/Getty

source: people.com