Simone Biles has long been hailed as the “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) in gymnastics, having won a staggering 37 medals over her illustrious career. However, the Olympic champion is now taking pride in an achievement that extends far beyond the medals and accolades–inspiring millions through what she calls “the Power of She.” In a recent interview, Biles opened up about how her experiences in gymnastics have shaped her into the confident, self-assured woman she is today.

Biles shared insights into her personal growth beyond gymnastics, stating, “I’ve learned and come to appreciate that my power goes far beyond my sport.“ She emphasized how her experiences in the gym, particularly in competition, have bolstered her confidence and trust in herself, remarking, “My approach, training, focus, and, most importantly, my confidence in everyday life have all been shaped by my time in the gym.“

Speaking about “the Power of She,” in an interview with People, Biles articulated its essence as self-appreciation, striving to be the best version of oneself in all aspects of life. She elucidated, “Appreciating myself so I can be the best athlete, teammate, friend, and person that I can be“ lies at its core, stressing the importance of this mindset, not just for individual growth but also for fostering a supportive community.

Biles exemplified collective empowerment, where women and young girls embracing the “Power of She” could exchange experiences, nurturing strength and wisdom within each other through mutual support. She affirmed, “And the more women and young girls who believe in the essence of the Power of She, the greater the experiences we can share in each other, creating a feeling of belonging through active engagement, movement, and support to help realize the strength and wisdom that resides in all of us.” This appreciation for bonding, teamwork, and encouragement was evident in the U.S. championships as well.

During the US Gymnastics Championship, when Sunisa Lee faced a tough moment on the vault, Simone Biles rushed to her side. Lee’s awkward landing prompted Biles to provide immediate support, even under the pressure of the competition. They stepped aside for a private chat, where Biles empathized with Lee’s struggle, saying, “I know how traumatizing it is, especially on a big stage like this.” Biles aimed to prevent Lee from getting caught up in her own doubts.

Upon returning, Biles remained by Lee’s side, cheering her on as she delivered a strong routine on the uneven bars, scoring 14.500 and finishing fourth. Lee later expressed gratitude for Biles’ support, acknowledging, “I know I was having a hard time and she was just there to help lift me up.” This moment not only showed Biles’ support for her teammate but also emphasized the power of empathy and solidarity in the heat of competition. But is it the just way how Biles inspires young girls? Not at all.

Is Simone Biles’ mental health more important than gold medals?

Simone Biles became a strong advocate for mental health after she decided to step back from competing in the individual and team events during the Tokyo Olympics because of mental struggles. In gymnastics, where precision is crucial, she knew that being mentally sharp was as important as being physically fit. Even though she was physically okay, she understood that her mental state posed risks to her well-being. She explained on Instagram that she hadn’t quit, but that her mind and body weren’t working together.

After taking a break to focus on her mental health, Biles returned to competition, eventually winning the Core Hydration Classic. Since then, her winning streak has continued unabated, with triumphs at events like the US Classics and US Championship Xfinity. Through her journey, she inspired many to prioritize their mental well-being.