According to the press, Simone Biles decided on Tuesday to pull out of the Olympic games

After struggling with a landing, Biles made the tough choice to step down. The anxiety and pressure of competing were beginning to take a toll on Biles. Simone had been undergoing therapy, based on a source, and she thought it was going pretty well. The stress, however, just became too extreme.

Even the Greatest of All Times, or G.O.A.Ts, like Biles need breaks

Simone was visibly shaken during press coverage following her decision. In a challenging moment, she was noted as saying, “This Olympic Games, I wanted it to be for myself. I came in and felt like I was still doing it for other people.” The pressure to perform can be too much, especially when all eyes are on you, expecting absolute perfection. But some of Simone’s fans were sure to let her know that they nevertheless had her back.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki weighed in on Biles’ decision. “Still the G.O.A.T., and we are all just lucky to be able to see her in action,” she said.

It took a lot for Simone to decide to stop competing

Putting your mental health first isn’t always easy, especially in the spotlight. One can only imagine the anguish athletes like Simone face under pressure in situations like these. But we are happy that Biles did the hard thing and put her health first. Even more so, we are happy she is proving to be an all-around inspiration. But this time it isn’t merely the athleticism that sets her apart. It’s also her courage.