Mary Lou Retton on Simone Biles’ Gymnastics GOAT Legacy in 2016: “Compete With the Men”

“She’s gonna be big…” Mary Lou Retton had predicted about Simone Biles even before her first Olympic appearance. In August 2016, Biles became the first American woman to secure an overall Olympic gold. Retton candidly shared her admiration for Simone Biles’ GOAT status in the world of gymnastics. It must also be noted that Biles and Retton’s journey is similar on the professional front and in the adversities they overcame.

The 1984 women’s gymnastics champion’s battle with a rare pneumonia illness spanning seven months mirrors Biles’ own challenges, including her public struggle with the Twisties. In the interview, ‘America’s Sweetheart’ Retton claimed that Biles surpassed her, and she even mused about the possibility of the seven-time Olympic medalist competing in the men’s competition.

Cheering for Simone Biles after she had made history in 2016, Retton said, “She’s just the best gymnast I’ve ever seen in my life… I say it over and over, she is the greatest gymnast ever, I really do think that.” Biles had already made history at the 2016 Rio Olympics, clinching four Olympic gold medals in team, all-around, vault, floor exercise, and a bronze on the balance beam. Retton watched in awe as Biles showcased her unmatched talent like the rest of the world.

Retton’s awe for Biles extended beyond mere medals; she even playfully suggested that Biles possessed the strength and skill to compete in the men’s competition. “We have a running joke that she’s so strong she should have to compete with the men. She’s that strong,” Retton chuckled.

Reflecting on Biles’ dominance, Retton acknowledged that such extraordinary ability wasn’t solely the result of coaching but rather a God-given talent that couldn’t be taught. “She’s just the best gymnast I’ve ever seen in my life, and I think a lot of us as athletes and even Olympic champions say the same thing,” Retton declared with conviction. As we ponder these profound words, it’s comforting to know that when Simone Biles faced her toughest trial, she wasn’t alone; she had the immense support of countless veterans!

Fellow gymnasts back Simone Biles after Tokyo ‘Twisties’

In 2021, when Simone Biles courageously withdrew from the team finals and several other events, numerous veterans and former Olympians shared their perspectives on her choice. Nastia Liukin articulated the significance of Biles’ actions, emphasizing that prioritizing her mental health and safety set a profound example for athletes and spectators alike.

Liukin expressed, “It was something that I will forever be so proud of her for doing because, you know she has set such a great example, obviously for everything she has done on the competition floor, but in my opinion, even more so off of the competition floor.” Similarly, Aly Raisman, Biles’ teammate from the 2016 Rio Olympics, highlighted the immense pressure Biles faced and expressed the importance of recognizing her humanity.

Raisman stated, “But I think it’s also just really important to think about how much pressure has been on her, and there’s only so much that someone can take. She’s human, and I think sometimes people forget that. And Simone, just like everyone else, is doing the best that she can.” As we contemplate this camaraderie, let’s also delve into Mary Lou’s thoughts on Simone Biles’ journey toward her fourth Olympics.

Mary Lou’s Paris Olympics prediction for Simone Biles

Retton knew Biles even before she made her appearance at the 2016 Olympics. In a recent interview with ET, the 1984 women’s gymnastics champion revealed, “Before her first Olympics… I placed a call (with Biles’ parents) and said, ‘If you guys ever need advice or any help…’I said, ‘She’s gonna be big. And it’s gonna be overwhelming. And you’re not gonna really know where to go or where to turn to.” 

As Simone Biles sets her sights on the 2024 Paris Olympics, Mary Lou Retton eagerly shared her thoughts on the journey ahead. Retton expressed her high hopes for Biles’ performance in Paris in an exclusive interview. Retton exuded confidence when asked about Biles’ prospects for the upcoming Olympics, stating, “No doubt. Everyone’s going to be watching women’s gymnastics to see who gets second, seriously.”

Retton’s optimism extends to a specific aspiration: witnessing Biles clinch an Olympic gold on the uneven bars, a feat she has yet to accomplish. As for her own attendance at the Paris Olympics, Retton remains undecided due to ongoing health concerns. However, she emphatically expressed her desire to support Team USA from afar, reaffirming her dedication to the sport, its athletes, and her country.

What are your thoughts on the veteran’s words as we anticipate the realization of Mary Lou’s prediction about Simone? Share your thoughts in the comments below!