Simone Biles is set to share her emotional journey in a new Netflix docuseries, “Simone Biles Rising,” premiering on July 17. The series, which debuts just days before the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, offers an intimate look at the celebrated gymnast’s decision to withdraw from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and her subsequent mental health journey.
The trailer, released on June 19, features Biles, 27, in tears as she discusses the mental blocks that led to her withdrawal from the Tokyo Games. The series captures her return to gymnastics in 2023 and her preparations for the upcoming U.S. Olympic Trials. It also includes personal moments with her husband, NFL safety Jonathan Owens, her former teammate Aly Raisman, and her mother, Nellie Biles.
The official synopsis of the series highlights Biles’ struggles with the “twisties,” a condition that affects gymnasts’ spatial awareness and can be dangerous during performances. The synopsis reads, “Since then, Simone has put in the hard work: facing the difficult traumas of her past, learning to manage her mental health, embracing her journey, and in the process, rebuilding her gymnastics from the ground up.”
Biles’ decision to withdraw from the Tokyo Olympics was a significant moment in sports history, sparking a global conversation about the pressures faced by elite athletes and the importance of mental health. In the trailer, Biles is seen struggling with her routines and eventually walking off the floor, a moment that was widely covered by the media at the time.
Reflecting on her journey, Biles said in a statement, “We are all the authors of our own journeys, and I am in a place in my life where I’m comfortable with who I am and what I’ve been through as an athlete, but most of all, as a person. Gymnastics is what I do but it’s not who I am, and I’m excited for people to see another side of me outside of competition.”
The series aims to inspire young girls facing similar challenges. Biles added, “I know there are young girls out there who look to me for inspiration and are faced with similar challenges, and my hope is that this documentary helps to empower them to be true to who they are and never give up on their dreams.”
Directed by Katie Walsh and produced by Gotham Chopra, Ameeth Sankaran, Giselle Parets, and Janey Miller, “Simone Biles Rising” promises to be a compelling watch. The four-part series will delve into Biles’ preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, showcasing her resilience and determination to return to the top of her sport.
Biles’ journey back to the Olympics has been nothing short of remarkable. She recently won the top title at the 2024 U.S. Gymnastics Championships, sweeping every individual title on her way back to the Olympics. With seven career Olympic medals, she is currently tied with Shannon Miller for the most Olympic medals won by any American gymnast.
The trailer also touches on the criticism Biles faced following her withdrawal from the Tokyo Olympics. Despite the support she received, she was also labeled a “quitter” by some. The series aims to shed light on the immense pressure and scrutiny faced by athletes at the highest level.
Biles’ battle with the “twisties” is a central theme in the series. She described the condition as “petrifying,” explaining, “It’s honestly petrifying trying to do a skill but not having your mind & body in sync. Literally can not tell up from down. It’s the craziest feeling ever. Not having an inch of control over your body.”
As the world eagerly anticipates her return to the Olympic stage, “Simone Biles Rising” offers a raw and honest portrayal of her journey. The series is set to premiere on Netflix on July 17, just days before the Paris 2024 Olympic Games kick off on July 26.
Simone Biles’ story is one of resilience, courage, and determination. Through her struggles and triumphs, she continues to inspire millions around the world. “Simone Biles Rising” is a testament to her strength and her unwavering commitment to being the best version of herself, both on and off the mat.
