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The name Simone Biles will go down in the chronicles of gymnastics. All because of her trajectories, which frequently went off course; nonetheless, the gymnast never stopped showcasing her incredible talent on whichever mat she stepped on. A decade back she made her debut at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Antwerp, and a lot has changed since then. The seven-time Olympic medalist married NFL safety Jonathan Owens, normalized mental health talks among elite athletes worldwide after Twisties episode, and proved her influence with a flurry of golds.

The comeback from a career breakdown has never been so powerful, however, Biles calls it, “one step at a time.” As she wraps the five precious alloys won in the diamond capital of the world, Biles pens a heartfelt note for her constant cheerleaders.

Simone Biles expresses her gratitude after Worlds

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Simone Biles’ decision to withdraw from the team, all-around, and apparatuses two years ago exposed the world’s brutal side. That was “the hardest part,” according to Biles. Now, more at ease with the athletic pressure, she departed Antwerp with 30 medals from the World Championships in six appearances. Two days after World Mental Health Day, Biles shared a brief message on her Twitter (X) account saying her backers gave her, “the strength to push through the toughest moments.”

Simone wrote, “I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to fans, friends, family & partnerships who have been unwavering pillars of support throughout my mental health journey. Your encouragement, love, and belief in me have been instrumental in my success and recovery.” Back in 2021, still recovering, she mentioned learning to lean on her safe space; her family members, especially her parents, coaches, and then-boyfriend Owens.

While her closest followers have never doubted her prowess, some nasty critics were tougher to get through.

READ MORE Despite Historic Achievement, Simone Biles Misses Pivotal Moment Amid World Artistic Gymnastics Championships 2023

The Texas native further added, “I feel truly blessed to have such an incredible support system, and I can’t thank you enough for being with me every step of the way. Your presence in my life is invaluable, and I am deeply appreciative of your unwavering support.” She concluded by saying, “World Championships was an absolute dream & I still can’t believe it.” Her parents were present to cheer for her at the venue, and although her husband was overseas playing the NFL regular season, he never stopped rooting for her.

As Biles has plenty to be proud of, do you know every podium finish of hers at the 2023 World Championship?

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All of Simone Biles’ victories at the 2023 World Gymnastics Championship

Biles added four gold medals and one silver to her already opulent collection during her time in Europe, officially becoming the most decorated gymnast ever (female or male). Biles became the first female athlete to perfectly land the Yurchenko double pike vault; which now bears her name making it her fifth move. Later, Biles broke Vitaly Scherbo of Belarus’ record of 33 total medals from the Olympics and the World Championships by winning a record sixth all-around gold.

via Getty

The American team also secured a gold under her command. By performing nearly flawlessly on the floor and balancing beam, Biles earned two golds in the individual routine finals and a silver on the vault. At the global championships, Biles has already won 30 medals in her career, including 23 gold. Interestingly, she has competed in six Worlds, reaching 33 finals and winning medals in 30 which is a 91% success rate!

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Watch this story As Simone Biles and Michael Phelps? Work Towards Mental Health, Another Rising Gymnast Breaks Silence on Self-Care in Sports