The twisties derailed her Tokyo Olympics and cost her two years of competition, but Biles reasserted her dominance in Paris. | Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

Simone Biles Suggests Retirement After Record-Breaking Career

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Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in U.S. history with 37 Olympic and World Championship medals, is hinting that her competitive gymnastics journey may soon come to an end. In an interview with Sports Illustrated on January 2, the 2024 Sportsperson of the Year revealed that returning for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics would feel like a “life and death” decision.

“I’ve accomplished so much, there’s almost nothing left to do,” said Biles, who claimed four medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics—three gold (team, all-around, vault) and one silver (floor exercise). “At this point in my career, I’m humble enough to know when to be done.”

Simone Biles Is SI’s 2024 Sportsperson of the Year – Shaniqwa Jarvis/Sports Illustrated

Now 27 years old, Biles is balancing her athletic ambitions with personal goals. Married to NFL player Jonathan Owens, she reflected on the sacrifices required to compete at the highest level. “When you’re younger, it’s missing prom or college. Now, it’s about starting a family or spending time with my husband. What’s worth it?”

Her performance in Paris cemented her status as the greatest of all time, breaking Shannon Miller’s record to become the most decorated U.S. gymnast in Olympic history. Biles now holds 11 Olympic medals, including seven golds.

Despite her extraordinary achievements, Biles admitted she hasn’t fully grasped the magnitude of her legacy. “I don’t think the reality has set in. Maybe in a few years, I’ll look back and say, ‘Wow, I really was good.’ But for now, it feels normal because I’ve done it every day.”

With 37 Olympic and World Championship medals, Simone Biles is unmatched. Few, like Larisa Latynina (18 Olympic medals), come close to her historic dominance. While Biles hasn’t officially announced her retirement, her remarks suggest she may be ready to close the chapter on her competitive career. For her fans, the question remains: Will Simone Biles grace the mat one final time in 2028?

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Simone Biles Suggests Retirement After Record-Breaking Career

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