Simone Biles Supports Suni Lee at U.S. Gymnastics Championships: ‘I Knew She Needed Some Encouragement’
Despite focusing on her solo performance at this year’s U.S. Gymnastics Championships, eventual winner Simone Biles also took time to support fellow gymnast Suni Lee after she experienced a mishap early in the competition. After securing her historic ninth win, Biles spoke with the media, sharing the encouragement she offered Lee, who had struggled with…
Despite focusing on her solo performance at this year’s U.S. Gymnastics Championships, eventual winner Simone Biles also took time to support fellow gymnast Suni Lee after she experienced a mishap early in the competition.
After securing her historic ninth win, Biles spoke with the media, sharing the encouragement she offered Lee, who had struggled with her vault routine.
“I knew exactly what was going through her head. I dealt with that in Tokyo,” Biles said. “I knew that she needed some encouragement and somebody to trust her gymnastics for her and to believe in her.”
Biles elaborated, “That’s exactly what I did. I went back there and talked to her. I’ve been in her shoes and done that exact thing. I know how traumatizing it is, especially on a big stage like this. I didn’t want her to get in her head.”
Biles recognized that Lee was experiencing the “twisties,” a mental block causing gymnasts to lose track of their position in the air during flips. This was the same issue that led Biles to withdraw from the all-around competition at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, a moment that allowed Lee to step up and win gold that year.
During the press conference, Lee expressed her gratitude for Biles’ support.
“I think she knew that I needed help in the moment. She, more than anyone, understands what I went through on vault. She came over to see if I was okay and to help boost my confidence because I was starting to think it was over,” Lee said. “It was really nice having her in my corner.”
Looking ahead, both Biles and Lee are preparing for the U.S. Olympic Trials, which will determine who represents the USA at the Paris Olympics this summer. With Biles practically assured a spot, she reflected on competing as one of the oldest gymnasts at age 27.
“I use the phrase ‘aging like fine wine,’ ” Biles said. “It’s just getting better and better. We’ll see. Hopefully, we get to ride this out for the rest of the year.”
