Statement of solidarity with Simone Biles

Mental Health UK responds to American gymnast and four-time Olympic gold medallist Simone Biles’ decision to withdraw from the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.


Katie Legg
, Director, Strategy and Partnerships at Mental Health UK, said:

“Athletes push themselves to the limit to perform at the pinnacle of their sport, and they understand the role good mental health and resilience plays in achieving their dreams. None of us watching at home can fully understand what Simone is going through, but there is no doubt that this was a brave decision to take with the world watching your every move and the weight of a nation on your shoulders. To be open that you are struggling and to ask for support is not a sign of weakness, but a strength. We can all learn from her example and prioritise our mental health as much as our physical health.”

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