President Biden is adding to the chorus of praise for Simone Biles after the gymnast made history with her record eighth U.S. Gymnastics title, dubbing her the “best of America.”
“When we see Simone compete, we’re witnessing unmatched power and grace,” Biden said in a Monday post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“Not only is she the first in history to hold all eight U.S. gymnastics titles, but she’s a trailblazer who spoke up for those who couldn’t speak for themselves,” Biden said.
“You represent the best of America,” the commander in chief added of the 26-year-old athlete.
Simone Biles competes on the floor exercise during the U.S. Gymnastics Championships Sunday, Aug. 27, 2023, in San Jose, Calif. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)
Biden’s comments came after Biles became the first gymnast in history to win eight U.S. all-around titles Sunday at the U.S. Gymnastics Championships in San Jose, Calif.
She returned to her sport two years after bowing out of some of the competition at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, citing mental health concerns and a condition known as the “twisties,” or a disconnect between an athlete’s mind and body.
That same year, Biles testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee, blaming the “entire system” for enabling abuse by Larry Nassar. The former USA Gymnastics team doctor was sentenced to decades in prison in 2018 for sexually assaulting dozens of gymnasts.
Biles has not indicated whether she plans to compete in the 2024 Olympic games in Paris, telling The Associated Press, “I like to keep [my goals] personal, just so that I know what I’m aiming for.”
It’s not the first time that Biden’s commended Biles. Last year, Biles was one of 17 recipients awarded the Medal of Freedom at the White House.