Simone Biles Says She ‘Never Truly Believed’ Until Now She’s More Than Gymnastics

Simone Biles sent a warm thank you to supporters on Thursday morning for kind messages sent her way after she withdrew from the women’s Olympic all-around gymnastics final the day prior. The four-time gold medalist, who won the all-around gold in Rio five years ago, wrote on Twitter, “The outpouring love & support I’ve received has made me realize I’m more than my accomplishments and gymnastics which I never truly believed before.” Biles has not yet made a decision whether to compete in the individual events that follow the all-around. Though the Olympian focused on positive messages, some have sent ire her way. Right-wing pundits and politicians have decried her withdrawal as a national embarrassment.