Simone Biles had an unforgettable and historic performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, earning four medals overall.
Biles, who secured three gold medals and one silver, became the most decorated American gymnast in Olympic history with a total of 11 medals. Now, she’s celebrating her achievements and recovering from a minor injury.
After her final event, the women’s floor exercise on August 5, Biles spoke with NBC’s Mike Tirico while wearing a boot on her left foot.
When asked about her calf, Biles responded, “Calf is good. It’s just precautionary. We still have a tour after this, so I need to heal up. Just a bit of soreness.”
Biles took a fall during her warmups and had to re-tape her calf before her final floor routine. She had mentioned calf issues earlier in the competition.
“Elite athletes are pretty tough. We push through pain or pleasure, ready for anything,” she told Tirico as footage of her fall played. “I was just trying to over-rotate for safety, and almost knocked coach Laurent Landi out. But it was good.”
Biles' smile, a staple of the Olympics, reflected a new joy this time. After struggling with the twisties and withdrawing from the Tokyo Games, she found herself in a much better place.
“I’m a lot happier and chose to do this. Whatever happens, happens. I’m in a good spot mentally and physically,” she said. “When I’m out there, it’s pure joy. I can’t believe I’m competing again, representing my country, just having fun doing what I love.”
She now appreciates the Olympic experience more, saying that her first Games came with overwhelming expectations.
“Winning our first gold felt a bit naive back then,” she continued. “Now, I appreciate it more with maturity. This time was really special.”
Biles also cherished the support from celebrities like Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande, and athletes like Steph Curry and Tom Brady.
“It’s amazing to have their support,” she said. “The Olympics happen every four years, making gymnastics popular. Their support means the world to the whole team, not just me.”
During Biles' final event, Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade won gold, and Team USA's Jordan Chiles earned bronze. This marked the first all-Black podium in Olympic gymnastics history.
On the podium, Biles and Chiles bowed beside Andrade, celebrating her historic win. With her four medals at the Paris Games, Andrade became the most-decorated Brazilian athlete ever.
Before earning silver in the final event, Biles fell off the balance beam but continued to compete.
“My legacy is about having fun and doing what you love, and I try to instill that in practice every day,” she said. “It’s worth it because we’re here in Paris, winning medals, representing our country on the Olympic stage. We’re so proud.”