What You Should Know About Simone Biles’s Absence from the Opening Ceremony, Her Leg Problems, Her Public Criticism, and More at the Paris Olympics

Simone Biles: The Talk of the Paris Olympics

Simone Biles is generating buzz at the Paris Olympics for various reasons. The superstar gymnast not only missed the opening ceremony but also faced a leg issue. On top of that, she’s receiving public criticism for her hairstyle.

The Paris Olympics in Full Swing

The Paris Olympics have been captivating audiences for a few days now. Among the dazzling talents is Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, who has gone viral for several reasons. From missing the opening ceremony to dealing with a leg issue, the 27-year-old is the name on everyone’s lips.

Missing the Opening Ceremony

On July 26, athletes paraded along Paris’ River Seine during the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony. However, Simone and some U.S. gymnastics team members were noticeably absent. Her supportive mom, Nellie Biles, explained the reason.

Speaking to “Today’s” Hoda Kotb, Nellie said, “The first competition is Sunday, which is women’s qualifier, and, of course, she needs to rest up before that competition.”

Facing Adversity in Competition

When the Artistic Gymnastics Women’s Qualification took place on July 28, Simone faced adversity. Footage showed her sitting on the sidelines with the U.S.A. Gymnastics team doctor Marcia Faustin. They disappeared briefly, then Simone returned with medical tape on her left leg. A news outlet reported that Simone tweaked her calf during her floor exercise warmup, necessitating the tape.

Despite this, she didn’t let the injury show once on the competition floor. Her grit and determination to continue despite being hurt contrasts with her decision at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics. Back then, she removed herself from finals to protect her well-being, sparking a widespread public discussion on mental health.

Online Criticism and Support

Many took to social media to share their thoughts on Simone’s injury. Unfortunately, most criticisms were harsh. One X user wrote, “Smart. This time, if she wants to quit, she can blame injury instead of nerves.” Another user called her a “Drama Queen” and claimed she pretended to get hurt for attention.

Yet, amidst the negativity, there was support for Simone. One fan shared a gif of Hollywood stars giving a standing ovation, accompanied by a caption: “Me in my living room at 3AM watching Simone Biles smash her floor routine on a taped-up leg. #OlympicGames.”

Achieving Milestones Despite Setbacks

Despite her leg injury, Simone managed to participate and achieve an incredible milestone. Video footage showed her executing the “hardest vault in the world,” a Yurchenko double pike, making her the first woman to perform it at the Olympics.

Although some expressed concern about her performance with a wounded calf, others turned their attention to Simone’s appearance. One Instagrammer commented, “She’s awesome, but can someone fix her hair for her, please?” An X user echoed this, suggesting a hair braid or style.

ocus on Simone’s Hair

Simone’s hairstyle also became a talking point. One social media user suggested, “#SimoneBiles should have had an #FBA Beautician Do Her Hair In A Ballerina Style Updo/Bun, Or A Sleek Ponytail Before She Left For The #OlympicGames.” However, this focus on her appearance did not overshadow her athletic achievements.

While many have commented on Simone Biles at the Paris Olympics, their opinions don’t diminish her incredible milestone. She persevered despite her calf injury, demonstrating resilience for herself and her team.