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Simone Biles Rising: A journey of resilience and redemption
In the world of gymnastics, few names resonate as powerfully as Simone Biles. As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, Netflix’s new docuseries “Simone Biles Rising” offers an intimate look into the life of the most decorated gymnast of all time. Directed by Katie Walsh, this four-part series delves into Biles’ career, her unexpected withdrawal from the Tokyo Olympics, and her triumphant return to the sport she loves.
The Tokyo Olympics: A turning point
The series opens with the high-stakes atmosphere of the Tokyo Olympics. Simone Biles, then 27, recounts the immense pressure and the unsettling feeling that something was amiss even before she arrived in Japan. This pivotal moment sets the stage for a narrative that oscillates between past and present, leading up to her preparations for Paris.
One of the most gripping scenes features Biles experiencing the “twisties,” a dangerous condition where gymnasts lose their sense of spatial awareness. This footage, juxtaposed with home videos of Biles and her sister Adria in foster care before their adoption, paints a vivid picture of her journey from a tumultuous childhood to global stardom.
The legacy of Black women in gymnastics
“Simone Biles Rising” is not just a personal story; it also highlights the historical significance of Biles’ career. Black women have only recently begun to dominate gymnastics, and Biles stands on the shoulders of pioneers like Gabby Douglas, Dominique Dawes, and Betty Okino. The series explores the toxic culture within the sport, including the ostracization these women faced due to their hair textures and body types.
In a particularly shocking segment, Okino recalls how her coaches pushed in the bones of her naturally flat feet. This harrowing account underscores the physical and emotional toll that gymnastics can take, especially on Black women.
The weight of public scrutiny
Episode 1, titled “Write Me Down in History,” delves into the misogynoir that Black women in public domains often face. When Biles withdrew from the Tokyo Olympics, she was met with a barrage of criticism, particularly from middle-aged men who berated her for prioritizing her health. Despite her openness about her mental health struggles and her unwavering support for her teammates, Biles was vilified for not “performing.”
This episode is especially poignant given the well-documented abuses within USA Gymnastics and the prosecution of sexual predator Larry Nassar. Biles, a survivor of Nassar’s abuse, has been vocal about her experiences, and “Simone Biles Rising” poignantly illustrates how becoming a symbol can strip someone of their humanity.
A diary of resilience
“Simone Biles Rising” feels like three years’ worth of Biles’ diary entries, offering a candid look at both the highs and lows of her life. Homemade videos and on-camera interviews are interwoven throughout, showcasing Biles’ vibrant personality. Whether she’s discussing her love for gymnastics, spending time with her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, or having her hair braided by her mom before competitions, Biles’ authenticity shines through.
The series also challenges the notion that high-performing athletes must compartmentalize their personal hardships to succeed. Biles invites viewers to consider what might happen if athletes were allowed to prioritize their mental health alongside their physical well-being. By taking charge of her narrative and living life on her terms, Biles exemplifies true freedom.
A reflective closure
“Simone Biles Rising” is more than a docuseries; it’s a testament to resilience, courage, and the power of self-advocacy. As Biles prepares for the 2024 Paris Olympics, she continues to inspire not just as an athlete but as a beacon of strength and authenticity. The series premieres on July 17 on Netflix, with Part 2 set to debut this fall. For those eager to delve deeper into Biles’ journey, the trailer and additional information can be found here.
In a world that often demands perfection, Simone Biles reminds us that true greatness lies in embracing our vulnerabilities and rising above them.
