Simone Biles, the gymnast widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time, was one of the most anticipated stars at the Paris 2024 Olympics. With three golds and one silver added to her already extensive collection, Biles’ triumphant comeback drew global attention.

Her return to the Olympic stage, however, wasn’t a given. Just four years ago, in Tokyo 2020, Biles was forced to withdraw from competition due to a phenomenon known as “the Twisties,” a dangerous mental block where gymnasts lose their spatial awareness mid-air. The pressure, combined with the mental and physical toll, left Biles unsure whether she would ever compete again. In her own words, she was “fighting demons” during that time, leaving many to wonder if that was the end of her legendary career.

Yet, fast forward to Paris 2024, and Biles proved that her story was far from over. Despite the weight of her previous struggles and an unimaginable amount of pressure, she delivered remarkable performances that left no doubt about her resilience. While Biles is often associated with unparalleled success, her journey is also a testament to overcoming personal battles. It was clear that her story, though peppered with setbacks, continued to inspire millions around the world.