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Simone Biles Speaks Out After Receiving Immense ‘Love & Support’: ‘I’m More Than My Accomplishments’

Simone Biles is feeling the love from her country after her decision to exit the women’s team and all-around events at the Tokyo Olympics.

On Wednesday, USA Gymnastics released a statement revealing that Biles would not compete in the all-around portion of the Games. “After further medical evaluation, Simone Biles has withdrawn from the final individual all-around competition at the Tokyo Olympic Games, in order to focus on her mental health,” part of the statement read. “We wholeheartedly support Simone's decision and applaud her bravery in prioritizing her well-being. Her courage shows, yet again, why she is a role model for so many.”

Following the news, fellow celebrities and athletes publically showed their support for the 24-year-old, praising her strength and bravery for putting her mental health first.

Michelle Obama wrote, “Am I good enough? Yes, I am. The mantra I practice daily. @Simone_Biles, we are proud of you and we are rooting for you. Congratulations on the silver medal, Team @USA!” Hoda Kotb added, “Someone said it best. @Simone_Biles already won. She is a class act. Withdrew from team competition after vault... stayed and cheered on her teammates... got them chalk for their hands.. encouraged.. hugged them. She already won. Congrats on the silver medal! @TeamUSA @USAGym.”

And their kind words didn’t go unnoticed. On Thursday, Biles shared a post of her own on IG. “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,” she captioned a slideshow on her personal IG account.

The post included two photos of herself sporting her team USA jacket and cheering from the sidelines.

This isn’t the first time Biles has spoken out about her mental state. After her withdrawal from the team finals, the gold medalist opened up about her health. “Physically, I feel good, I'm in shape,” she told Hoda Kotb (who was cheering her on from the stands) exclusively on Today. “Emotionally, that kind of varies on the time and moment. Coming here to the Olympics and being the head star isn't an easy feat, so we're just trying to take it one day at a time and we'll see.”

We stand with you, Simone.

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