Simone Biles, the most decorated American gymnast in Olympic history, has hinted at a potential retirement from the sport, leaving fans questioning whether her triumphant performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she secured three gold and one silver medal, marked her final appearance on the grand stage. Her recent interview with Sports Illustrated, following her recognition as their “2024 Sportsperson of the Year,” revealed her internal struggle between the allure of another Olympic run and the evolving priorities in her life. Biles expressed a sense of contentment and fulfillment with her achievements, suggesting that a return might be driven by “greed” rather than a genuine desire to compete. This sentiment reflects her awareness of the immense sacrifices another Olympic journey would entail, particularly concerning her newly established family life with husband Jonathan Owens.
Biles’ marriage to NFL player Jonathan Owens, safety for the Chicago Bears, has introduced a new dimension to her life, shifting her focus and priorities. The couple’s unwavering support for each other’s careers has been evident, with Owens notably excusing himself from the beginning of Bears training camp to be present for Biles’ historic performance in Paris. This dedication to their partnership underscores the significant role Owens plays in Biles’ life and decision-making process. The prospect of another Olympic cycle, demanding intense training and time away from her husband, presents a complex dilemma for Biles, who now weighs her athletic ambitions against the desire to build a life and family with Owens.
The sacrifices required for another Olympic bid are no longer the relatively simple trade-offs of her younger years, like missing prom or delaying college. Now, the stakes are higher, involving potentially postponing starting a family and enduring extended periods away from her husband. Biles acknowledges this shift in her perspective, recognizing that the sacrifices now carry greater weight and require a more thorough evaluation of their worth. The question “What’s really worth it?” resonates deeply with Biles as she navigates this pivotal point in her life, balancing her personal aspirations with the demands of elite-level competition.
Biles’ unprecedented success in gymnastics has left her with a unique perspective on her career trajectory. Having achieved virtually every accolade imaginable in the sport, she finds herself grappling with the motivation for another Olympic pursuit. She questioned the purpose of striving for more, recognizing the potential for it to appear “snobby” in light of her already extraordinary accomplishments. This humility and self-awareness highlight Biles’ maturity and her ability to critically assess her place in the sport’s history. She recognizes the potential for diminishing returns from further competition, a perspective born from her unparalleled success.
Her statement to Sports Illustrated, “I’m at a point in my career where I’m humble enough to know when to be done,” encapsulates her current mindset. This declaration suggests a growing inclination towards retirement, fueled by a sense of contentment and a desire to explore new chapters in her life. While not definitively closing the door on a 2028 Olympic comeback, Biles’ words indicate that such a decision would be a long shot. She seems at peace with the possibility of stepping away from the sport, having achieved a level of success that few athletes ever attain.
Ultimately, Biles’ decision regarding the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics remains uncertain. However, her recent statements reveal a shift in priorities, emphasizing the importance of her family and a growing sense of fulfillment with her existing accomplishments. The sacrifices required for another Olympic run now carry greater weight, prompting Biles to carefully consider what truly matters most. While the world awaits her final decision, Biles’ contemplation underscores the complexities faced by elite athletes as they navigate the intersection of personal life, professional ambition, and the enduring legacy of their athletic achievements. Her introspective approach highlights the human side of a sporting icon, reminding us that even the most decorated athletes grapple with the same fundamental life questions as everyone else.
