Is fame a curse? In an honest new interview, the record-breaking gymnast explains why her choice to back out of the Olympics was the right one.

Simone Biles was competing in the Olympics. She was doing a vault. Suddenly, everything went wrong. She could not work out where she was in the air. Worst of all, she had no idea where she would land. 

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Simone finished her routine safely. But she knew she had to quit the games. Now, she has spoken about what happened.

She explained that she realised being safe was more important than success. One minute, she wanted to be on a podium. The next minute, she knew she wanted to be home. 

When Simone decided to quit the games, some said she was simply giving up because her job got too hard. 

Others were impressed. She could have won six gold medals. Instead, she decided to look after her mental health. 

Now, she is staying with friends and family. She is also doing a tour to perform, but she is not competing. 

Some say

Yes! Newspapers and social media are always around. For Simone, this is a distraction. She cannot focus on her job. Plus, there is much more pressure. She always has to succeed so she can stay famous and keep being paid. The goal should be the sport, not pleasing advertising and sports companies who pay her. 

Others think 

No! Being famous makes things easier. She does not have to worry about money. She has the best coaches in the world. She can train in the best gyms. She can work all day at her sport. Other athletes need to do other jobs so they can afford to practise.