In an instant, Simone Biles had become the talk of this summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo – and for unfortunate reasons no athlete would wish on their worst enemy.
After struggling in the early days of competition, Biles sidelined herself citing the need to tend to her mental health.
Overnight, a national conversation on mental health commenced, and in this age of explosive social media punditry, there was no shortage of opinions. Both supporters and detractors weighed in on the unexpected decision. Many praised her boldness and vulnerability, while others questioned her sincerity, toughness and ulterior motives.
“I got a lot of great comments, like a lot of outpouring of support and love, but I also got a lot of bad stuff,” Biles acknowledged. “You guys have no idea what we’re going through.” | 
