Self - love is the right love .
Simone Bilesis in a much bettermental, physical, and emotionalstate than she was a few years ago, and that’s the greatest win of all!
Despite allowing her skill to speak for itself on the mat and becoming the most decorated gymnast in history, there are people online who still found ways to try and tear her down.
Remember back in May 2017 when she was performing her butt off onDancing with the Stars, and hostTom Bergeron said this about Simone’s facewhile she was receiving feedback from the judges: “I was waiting for you to smile at some of the compliments — you didn’t.”
This then propelled Simone to deliver this iconic response: “Smiling doesn’t win you gold medals” — and winning gold medals is something she knows quite a lot about.
Throughout her career, Simone’s body also became aconstant topic of discussion, so much so that she put out a public statement to address all the negativity. “I’ve learned to put on a strong front and let most of it slide,” Simone wrote. “But I’d be lying if I told you what people say about my arms, my legs, my body…of how I look in a dress, leotard, bathing suit, or even in casual pants hasn’t gotten me down at times.”
stunner . When did it become a competition?#NOCOMPETITION@SKII_US#skiipartnerpic.twitter.com / zBbAQaI0vU
But after years of dealing with constant ridicule from thousands of people online and media pressure, Simone revealed she’s finally at peace with herself. In a recent interview withElle, Simone opened up about how she learned to shut out the naysayers and love herself.
“I am doing therapy weekly to keep everything in tune so that I feel comfortable and confident enough to be competing,” Simone said. “It’s been a crucial part of my training regimen. I understand and realize I have to take care of my physical appearance as well as my mental.”
This revelation comes after shewithdrew from the 2020 Tokyo Olympicsafter realizing she needed to tend to her mental health.
The 27-year-old athlete went on to reflect about the current relationship she has with her hair. “I’m finally learning to love my hair and the texture that I have and the styles that I can do,” she added. “I used to worry about [my hair being considered] not professional…but I’m not embarrassed about it anymore.”
It’s beautiful to see Simone in such a positive space in her life. To learn more, you can read her fullElleinterview.
Be sure to check out Simone and the rest of Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics , which kicks off tomorrow . The Summer Olympics can be watched on NBC andPeacock .
