Simone Biles is being applauded for her strength. Society owes her more, these Black women say. [thelily.com]

Rafael Maravilla(PACEs Connection Staff) 7/30/214:00 AM

By Shanon Lee, The Lily, July 28, 2021

Marking the second time in recent months a world-class Black woman athlete publicly prioritized their mental health over competing, gymnast superstar Simone Biles withdrew from Thursday’s individual all-around competition at the Tokyo Olympics.

“I have to do what’s right for me and focus on my mental health,” Biles told NBC.

In May, tennis champion Naomi Osaka also made headlines after withdrawing from the French Open, citing mental health concerns. Officials had fined her for forgoing media events, which she said she chose to do to better manage her social anxiety.

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Pamela Denise LongMember

She should be applauded for putting herself first. We should also look critically at if our super human expectations of athletes contributes to their mental wellness or illness. She is a premiere professional athlete and certainly understands the rigor of competition. She's the best the gymnastics world has seen in a long time, if ever. To feel underappreciated by those who judge your craft must be exhausting.

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