Simone Biles
π€ PersonPodcast Appearances
Well, to me, I thought that's, kind of where it ended. And I was like, oh my gosh, how have I reached my greatest achievement in life at 19? I was scared for the rest of my life. Like, how can I beat this? How can I top this? What the heck am I going to do? I won the Olympics at 19. It's gonna be a shithole from here on out.
Well, to me, I thought that's, kind of where it ended. And I was like, oh my gosh, how have I reached my greatest achievement in life at 19? I was scared for the rest of my life. Like, how can I beat this? How can I top this? What the heck am I going to do? I won the Olympics at 19. It's gonna be a shithole from here on out.
Well, to me, I thought that's, kind of where it ended. And I was like, oh my gosh, how have I reached my greatest achievement in life at 19? I was scared for the rest of my life. Like, how can I beat this? How can I top this? What the heck am I going to do? I won the Olympics at 19. It's gonna be a shithole from here on out.
No, literally, because most people don't get to go to more than one Olympics or do those things. So at one point I was like, I did it! This is my greatest, like, this is the greatest thing that I wanted to achieve in my life. And then I was like,
No, literally, because most people don't get to go to more than one Olympics or do those things. So at one point I was like, I did it! This is my greatest, like, this is the greatest thing that I wanted to achieve in my life. And then I was like,
No, literally, because most people don't get to go to more than one Olympics or do those things. So at one point I was like, I did it! This is my greatest, like, this is the greatest thing that I wanted to achieve in my life. And then I was like,
Yes. And so I was scared, but at that time you couldn't really tell me anything because I was like, oh my gosh, I did it. And I knew as soon as that happens, We've watched previous Olympics, so we know how their lives change after that. So I knew it was going to be different, but I knew that it was going to be different.
Yes. And so I was scared, but at that time you couldn't really tell me anything because I was like, oh my gosh, I did it. And I knew as soon as that happens, We've watched previous Olympics, so we know how their lives change after that. So I knew it was going to be different, but I knew that it was going to be different.
Yes. And so I was scared, but at that time you couldn't really tell me anything because I was like, oh my gosh, I did it. And I knew as soon as that happens, We've watched previous Olympics, so we know how their lives change after that. So I knew it was going to be different, but I knew that it was going to be different.
Every day at the Olympics, my followers go up 10,000 and then I had a million. And then I was like, what the heck is happening and why are people following me? I was like, At that point, I was like, yes, this is my greatest achievement because I've been vying for this since I was six years old, per se. But then I was like, but y'all haven't watched the come up. So why do you care?
Every day at the Olympics, my followers go up 10,000 and then I had a million. And then I was like, what the heck is happening and why are people following me? I was like, At that point, I was like, yes, this is my greatest achievement because I've been vying for this since I was six years old, per se. But then I was like, but y'all haven't watched the come up. So why do you care?
Every day at the Olympics, my followers go up 10,000 and then I had a million. And then I was like, what the heck is happening and why are people following me? I was like, At that point, I was like, yes, this is my greatest achievement because I've been vying for this since I was six years old, per se. But then I was like, but y'all haven't watched the come up. So why do you care?
Like, this is my greatest achievement. Cool. So it was kind of weird to me that people were following me because I had won the Olympics. Because to me, that was the biggest thing. But I was like, how's that the biggest thing for you to follow me because I won this? It was kind of weird.
Like, this is my greatest achievement. Cool. So it was kind of weird to me that people were following me because I had won the Olympics. Because to me, that was the biggest thing. But I was like, how's that the biggest thing for you to follow me because I won this? It was kind of weird.
Like, this is my greatest achievement. Cool. So it was kind of weird to me that people were following me because I had won the Olympics. Because to me, that was the biggest thing. But I was like, how's that the biggest thing for you to follow me because I won this? It was kind of weird.
And then I was like, okay, I really need to find out who I am without gymnastics because I didn't think I was going to do it again.
And then I was like, okay, I really need to find out who I am without gymnastics because I didn't think I was going to do it again.
And then I was like, okay, I really need to find out who I am without gymnastics because I didn't think I was going to do it again.
A lot of the time because on a lot of the teams, like a lot of the girls looked up to me. So I felt like I was that strong person that everybody was like, oh my God, Simone's so strong. She has a strong personality. If you had something to describe me as, strong went before that word. So I felt like I could never show a sign of weakness.
A lot of the time because on a lot of the teams, like a lot of the girls looked up to me. So I felt like I was that strong person that everybody was like, oh my God, Simone's so strong. She has a strong personality. If you had something to describe me as, strong went before that word. So I felt like I could never show a sign of weakness.
A lot of the time because on a lot of the teams, like a lot of the girls looked up to me. So I felt like I was that strong person that everybody was like, oh my God, Simone's so strong. She has a strong personality. If you had something to describe me as, strong went before that word. So I felt like I could never show a sign of weakness.
But I just always felt like I was the strong one for my friends, the strong ones for my family, the strong ones. So it was just kind of like I got to a point where it was so hard for me to cry or show emotion. But I also think that came from gymnastics. It's like throw all that out the window, work on what you need to work on, and then outside at the gym, whatever happens, happens.
But I just always felt like I was the strong one for my friends, the strong ones for my family, the strong ones. So it was just kind of like I got to a point where it was so hard for me to cry or show emotion. But I also think that came from gymnastics. It's like throw all that out the window, work on what you need to work on, and then outside at the gym, whatever happens, happens.
But I just always felt like I was the strong one for my friends, the strong ones for my family, the strong ones. So it was just kind of like I got to a point where it was so hard for me to cry or show emotion. But I also think that came from gymnastics. It's like throw all that out the window, work on what you need to work on, and then outside at the gym, whatever happens, happens.
So, yeah, it was... Weird, different, difficult. But at that point, again, I'm only 19 years old.
So, yeah, it was... Weird, different, difficult. But at that point, again, I'm only 19 years old.
So, yeah, it was... Weird, different, difficult. But at that point, again, I'm only 19 years old.
A lot of the time, if it wasn't my sister, because we're very, very, very close, If it wasn't her silent cries, I didn't like to see anybody, like I didn't want anybody to ever see me cry.
A lot of the time, if it wasn't my sister, because we're very, very, very close, If it wasn't her silent cries, I didn't like to see anybody, like I didn't want anybody to ever see me cry.
A lot of the time, if it wasn't my sister, because we're very, very, very close, If it wasn't her silent cries, I didn't like to see anybody, like I didn't want anybody to ever see me cry.
Because I didn't want them to show or see that I was a sign of weakness. So it was a lot of silent nights where I would cry because even after the Olympics, I went home and like we went on tour and stuff, but there would be a lot of times where I felt so alone because like how many kids can relate? 19 years old, you won the Olympics and then you have the weight of the world on your shoulders.
Because I didn't want them to show or see that I was a sign of weakness. So it was a lot of silent nights where I would cry because even after the Olympics, I went home and like we went on tour and stuff, but there would be a lot of times where I felt so alone because like how many kids can relate? 19 years old, you won the Olympics and then you have the weight of the world on your shoulders.
Because I didn't want them to show or see that I was a sign of weakness. So it was a lot of silent nights where I would cry because even after the Olympics, I went home and like we went on tour and stuff, but there would be a lot of times where I felt so alone because like how many kids can relate? 19 years old, you won the Olympics and then you have the weight of the world on your shoulders.
I'm still learning. It's just like, now I'm a celebrity. I don't know what I want to do with my life. I don't know if I can do this again. Everybody's cheering me on. It's just like, it was an overnight sensation, so to speak, even though like people that watch gymnastics watch for the four years prior, watch my whole entire career. But to just be like thrown out there, I was kind of confused.
I'm still learning. It's just like, now I'm a celebrity. I don't know what I want to do with my life. I don't know if I can do this again. Everybody's cheering me on. It's just like, it was an overnight sensation, so to speak, even though like people that watch gymnastics watch for the four years prior, watch my whole entire career. But to just be like thrown out there, I was kind of confused.
I'm still learning. It's just like, now I'm a celebrity. I don't know what I want to do with my life. I don't know if I can do this again. Everybody's cheering me on. It's just like, it was an overnight sensation, so to speak, even though like people that watch gymnastics watch for the four years prior, watch my whole entire career. But to just be like thrown out there, I was kind of confused.
But then somebody told me it was lonely at the top. And so I would relay that message in my head. And it was like positive sometimes, like, yeah, it's lonely at the top. And then other times it was like, it felt hard and heavy.
But then somebody told me it was lonely at the top. And so I would relay that message in my head. And it was like positive sometimes, like, yeah, it's lonely at the top. And then other times it was like, it felt hard and heavy.
But then somebody told me it was lonely at the top. And so I would relay that message in my head. And it was like positive sometimes, like, yeah, it's lonely at the top. And then other times it was like, it felt hard and heavy.
Yes, because I'm only 19. So we wanted our lives to be as normal as possible. And so I think that's why I'm so grounded with my family and all because I We never wanted it to take over because we've seen how that can happen. But again, I was just a kid. I was homeschooled. I didn't have much.
Yes, because I'm only 19. So we wanted our lives to be as normal as possible. And so I think that's why I'm so grounded with my family and all because I We never wanted it to take over because we've seen how that can happen. But again, I was just a kid. I was homeschooled. I didn't have much.
Yes, because I'm only 19. So we wanted our lives to be as normal as possible. And so I think that's why I'm so grounded with my family and all because I We never wanted it to take over because we've seen how that can happen. But again, I was just a kid. I was homeschooled. I didn't have much.
For me, it means the world because being adopted since I was six years old to now, it's been a long road and journey like career wise and just like who Simone is instead of Simone Biles. So it's been a long journey, but their support means the world to me. They've never really missed a competition, anything besides 2020 Olympics, 2021, whatever we want to call it.
For me, it means the world because being adopted since I was six years old to now, it's been a long road and journey like career wise and just like who Simone is instead of Simone Biles. So it's been a long journey, but their support means the world to me. They've never really missed a competition, anything besides 2020 Olympics, 2021, whatever we want to call it.
For me, it means the world because being adopted since I was six years old to now, it's been a long road and journey like career wise and just like who Simone is instead of Simone Biles. So it's been a long journey, but their support means the world to me. They've never really missed a competition, anything besides 2020 Olympics, 2021, whatever we want to call it.
The main reason I did that is because A lot of people follow me, a lot of people go on my platforms, and I've always been an open and honest book from the very beginning, and I've always decided I'm not gonna let anything ever change me, because this is who I am, so take it or leave it. But I've always been an open book.
The main reason I did that is because A lot of people follow me, a lot of people go on my platforms, and I've always been an open and honest book from the very beginning, and I've always decided I'm not gonna let anything ever change me, because this is who I am, so take it or leave it. But I've always been an open book.
The main reason I did that is because A lot of people follow me, a lot of people go on my platforms, and I've always been an open and honest book from the very beginning, and I've always decided I'm not gonna let anything ever change me, because this is who I am, so take it or leave it. But I've always been an open book.
I was talking to my friend the other day and she was like, I met you in three minutes. We went from talking about this to like deep stuff. And it's just like a lot of people when they meet me, they can feel that. But after that, I decided to speak out because I know it could help a lot of people. So if I could shine a light on whatever that is, then I'm going to do that.
I was talking to my friend the other day and she was like, I met you in three minutes. We went from talking about this to like deep stuff. And it's just like a lot of people when they meet me, they can feel that. But after that, I decided to speak out because I know it could help a lot of people. So if I could shine a light on whatever that is, then I'm going to do that.
I was talking to my friend the other day and she was like, I met you in three minutes. We went from talking about this to like deep stuff. And it's just like a lot of people when they meet me, they can feel that. But after that, I decided to speak out because I know it could help a lot of people. So if I could shine a light on whatever that is, then I'm going to do that.
But I wanted to be in a good enough place and to have... the proper help lined up before I spoke out because that stuff was so traumatizing. And I truly don't understand how I did what I did under those circumstances and how I put on a face, but you know, at some point as an athlete, you were an athlete. So you understand, it's like, we normalize a lot of stuff, but then we push off emotions.
But I wanted to be in a good enough place and to have... the proper help lined up before I spoke out because that stuff was so traumatizing. And I truly don't understand how I did what I did under those circumstances and how I put on a face, but you know, at some point as an athlete, you were an athlete. So you understand, it's like, we normalize a lot of stuff, but then we push off emotions.
But I wanted to be in a good enough place and to have... the proper help lined up before I spoke out because that stuff was so traumatizing. And I truly don't understand how I did what I did under those circumstances and how I put on a face, but you know, at some point as an athlete, you were an athlete. So you understand, it's like, we normalize a lot of stuff, but then we push off emotions.
It's like, We do so much.
It's like, We do so much.
It's like, We do so much.
And that's all you know. That's all we knew. So we thought it was normal because we're all homeschooled there together. You're all going through the same thing. So if we're talking to each other and if this is happening to you, this is happening to you. Okay, cool. It's normalized.
And that's all you know. That's all we knew. So we thought it was normal because we're all homeschooled there together. You're all going through the same thing. So if we're talking to each other and if this is happening to you, this is happening to you. Okay, cool. It's normalized.
And that's all you know. That's all we knew. So we thought it was normal because we're all homeschooled there together. You're all going through the same thing. So if we're talking to each other and if this is happening to you, this is happening to you. Okay, cool. It's normalized.
Well, at that point, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety, and I kind of knew I was depressed, but I hit it so well because I train 34 hours a week. So what do I always do whenever I'm at home? I'm in my room laying down, resting, resting, resting. But I knew this resting was very different. Like it was hard to get out of bed. It was hard to do anything.
Well, at that point, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety, and I kind of knew I was depressed, but I hit it so well because I train 34 hours a week. So what do I always do whenever I'm at home? I'm in my room laying down, resting, resting, resting. But I knew this resting was very different. Like it was hard to get out of bed. It was hard to do anything.
Well, at that point, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety, and I kind of knew I was depressed, but I hit it so well because I train 34 hours a week. So what do I always do whenever I'm at home? I'm in my room laying down, resting, resting, resting. But I knew this resting was very different. Like it was hard to get out of bed. It was hard to do anything.
It felt like everything felt heavy in the end of the world. And again, a lot of sleepless, crying nights. Like why me? Because I... It's just like, and then you kind of play victim, and then it seems like, again, nobody can relate to you, nobody's listening, nobody is, I trusted this person, this, that, the other.
It felt like everything felt heavy in the end of the world. And again, a lot of sleepless, crying nights. Like why me? Because I... It's just like, and then you kind of play victim, and then it seems like, again, nobody can relate to you, nobody's listening, nobody is, I trusted this person, this, that, the other.
It felt like everything felt heavy in the end of the world. And again, a lot of sleepless, crying nights. Like why me? Because I... It's just like, and then you kind of play victim, and then it seems like, again, nobody can relate to you, nobody's listening, nobody is, I trusted this person, this, that, the other.
So it just felt very, I wouldn't even say dehumanizing, but it felt like I held a lot of the guilt that wasn't mine to hold.
So it just felt very, I wouldn't even say dehumanizing, but it felt like I held a lot of the guilt that wasn't mine to hold.
So it just felt very, I wouldn't even say dehumanizing, but it felt like I held a lot of the guilt that wasn't mine to hold.
Yes, and I think that was the hardest for me to process and I learned through therapy like yes This is not my guilt to hold but to convince myself that because it's easier said than done But to convince myself that I was really really hard and I think I'm still working on that in therapy like it's gotten a lot better and I feel comfortable and now I can have conversations and and stuff like that.
Yes, and I think that was the hardest for me to process and I learned through therapy like yes This is not my guilt to hold but to convince myself that because it's easier said than done But to convince myself that I was really really hard and I think I'm still working on that in therapy like it's gotten a lot better and I feel comfortable and now I can have conversations and and stuff like that.
Yes, and I think that was the hardest for me to process and I learned through therapy like yes This is not my guilt to hold but to convince myself that because it's easier said than done But to convince myself that I was really really hard and I think I'm still working on that in therapy like it's gotten a lot better and I feel comfortable and now I can have conversations and and stuff like that.
That's the only thing they missed because they weren't allowed to go because of COVID. But other than that, they've supported everything that I've ever wanted to do, all of that stuff since I was a young girl.
That's the only thing they missed because they weren't allowed to go because of COVID. But other than that, they've supported everything that I've ever wanted to do, all of that stuff since I was a young girl.
That's the only thing they missed because they weren't allowed to go because of COVID. But other than that, they've supported everything that I've ever wanted to do, all of that stuff since I was a young girl.
But yeah, I have good days. I have bad days. But I also know that that doesn't define me.
But yeah, I have good days. I have bad days. But I also know that that doesn't define me.
But yeah, I have good days. I have bad days. But I also know that that doesn't define me.
Yes, and that's, I think... As an athlete, that was the hardest thing for me to process too because, you know, if you get injured, you go to the doctor and they're like, okay, three to six months or three weeks or whatever. And this is like years. And I'm like, why do I not feel better? Like if a doctor could sit down and tell me, I'd be great.
Yes, and that's, I think... As an athlete, that was the hardest thing for me to process too because, you know, if you get injured, you go to the doctor and they're like, okay, three to six months or three weeks or whatever. And this is like years. And I'm like, why do I not feel better? Like if a doctor could sit down and tell me, I'd be great.
Yes, and that's, I think... As an athlete, that was the hardest thing for me to process too because, you know, if you get injured, you go to the doctor and they're like, okay, three to six months or three weeks or whatever. And this is like years. And I'm like, why do I not feel better? Like if a doctor could sit down and tell me, I'd be great.
Because I thought like, oh, three to six months, three to six weeks. It's like... we're always on timeline with injuries. So whenever it's a mental injury or a physical injury that you're going through like that with depression and anxiety, and nobody can give you a timeline, it feels like it's never ending. And I was like, I just don't understand. I should be fine by now.
Because I thought like, oh, three to six months, three to six weeks. It's like... we're always on timeline with injuries. So whenever it's a mental injury or a physical injury that you're going through like that with depression and anxiety, and nobody can give you a timeline, it feels like it's never ending. And I was like, I just don't understand. I should be fine by now.
Because I thought like, oh, three to six months, three to six weeks. It's like... we're always on timeline with injuries. So whenever it's a mental injury or a physical injury that you're going through like that with depression and anxiety, and nobody can give you a timeline, it feels like it's never ending. And I was like, I just don't understand. I should be fine by now.
Because it's like, I'm not going to want to be in 10 years talking about this and somebody's going to be like, God, here she goes again.
Because it's like, I'm not going to want to be in 10 years talking about this and somebody's going to be like, God, here she goes again.
Because it's like, I'm not going to want to be in 10 years talking about this and somebody's going to be like, God, here she goes again.
We're so good at as athletes at doing that too and my My therapist is like just take it out of the box Roll it out on the floor like it's fine because we're so good at at like depress, depressing everything. So it's like, God. So for so long it's worked until it didn't anymore. And that's what you saw at the Olympics, a big old spill.
We're so good at as athletes at doing that too and my My therapist is like just take it out of the box Roll it out on the floor like it's fine because we're so good at at like depress, depressing everything. So it's like, God. So for so long it's worked until it didn't anymore. And that's what you saw at the Olympics, a big old spill.
We're so good at as athletes at doing that too and my My therapist is like just take it out of the box Roll it out on the floor like it's fine because we're so good at at like depress, depressing everything. So it's like, God. So for so long it's worked until it didn't anymore. And that's what you saw at the Olympics, a big old spill.
And I was like, to me, I couldn't understand why that happened either. Cause I'm like gymnastics, like what the heck is going on? Why is this happening? And then my therapist is like, well, we know why it happened. And I still have conversations with her to this day. And I'm like, hey, look, it's Olympic year. Did we figure out why that happened?
And I was like, to me, I couldn't understand why that happened either. Cause I'm like gymnastics, like what the heck is going on? Why is this happening? And then my therapist is like, well, we know why it happened. And I still have conversations with her to this day. And I'm like, hey, look, it's Olympic year. Did we figure out why that happened?
And I was like, to me, I couldn't understand why that happened either. Cause I'm like gymnastics, like what the heck is going on? Why is this happening? And then my therapist is like, well, we know why it happened. And I still have conversations with her to this day. And I'm like, hey, look, it's Olympic year. Did we figure out why that happened?
And she's like, Simone, we figured out why this has happened. I was like, are we sure? Are we sure? Really? Because it can't happen again. Yes. But it's like, it wasn't just a mental injury that happened called the twisties. It's like, compressing all of this shit for so many years, it just unfolded. Like you can't, you can't compress trauma that much longer.
And she's like, Simone, we figured out why this has happened. I was like, are we sure? Are we sure? Really? Because it can't happen again. Yes. But it's like, it wasn't just a mental injury that happened called the twisties. It's like, compressing all of this shit for so many years, it just unfolded. Like you can't, you can't compress trauma that much longer.
And she's like, Simone, we figured out why this has happened. I was like, are we sure? Are we sure? Really? Because it can't happen again. Yes. But it's like, it wasn't just a mental injury that happened called the twisties. It's like, compressing all of this shit for so many years, it just unfolded. Like you can't, you can't compress trauma that much longer.
And I hate to be the person that blames it on something else because I'd rather blame it on like, I have a hangnail. Sorry, can't vault. Like, or whatever it is. You're like, I wish I could say like money. Yes, and at that point after I came out about it, they're like, she doesn't want to lose. And I was like, First of all, I almost broke my leg, but thankfully I didn't break my leg.
And I hate to be the person that blames it on something else because I'd rather blame it on like, I have a hangnail. Sorry, can't vault. Like, or whatever it is. You're like, I wish I could say like money. Yes, and at that point after I came out about it, they're like, she doesn't want to lose. And I was like, First of all, I almost broke my leg, but thankfully I didn't break my leg.
And I hate to be the person that blames it on something else because I'd rather blame it on like, I have a hangnail. Sorry, can't vault. Like, or whatever it is. You're like, I wish I could say like money. Yes, and at that point after I came out about it, they're like, she doesn't want to lose. And I was like, First of all, I almost broke my leg, but thankfully I didn't break my leg.
And I called my agent and I was like, this is a mental injury that they can't see. Do they want me to wear a helmet? I'm like, because they couldn't see it. So they couldn't relate to it. They couldn't grasp it. It's not something that I could tell them so that they could feel like if I broke my ankle, they'd be like, should I broke my ankle before too? Like, I know how that feels.
And I called my agent and I was like, this is a mental injury that they can't see. Do they want me to wear a helmet? I'm like, because they couldn't see it. So they couldn't relate to it. They couldn't grasp it. It's not something that I could tell them so that they could feel like if I broke my ankle, they'd be like, should I broke my ankle before too? Like, I know how that feels.
And I called my agent and I was like, this is a mental injury that they can't see. Do they want me to wear a helmet? I'm like, because they couldn't see it. So they couldn't relate to it. They couldn't grasp it. It's not something that I could tell them so that they could feel like if I broke my ankle, they'd be like, should I broke my ankle before too? Like, I know how that feels.
Of course you can't vault. But for a mental injury, nobody could understand it. So there were so many narratives thrown around, so many different excuses that were pushed onto me. And I think the shittiest part of all at the Olympics I have very good, like, senses, and I knew something was going to go wrong.
Of course you can't vault. But for a mental injury, nobody could understand it. So there were so many narratives thrown around, so many different excuses that were pushed onto me. And I think the shittiest part of all at the Olympics I have very good, like, senses, and I knew something was going to go wrong.
Of course you can't vault. But for a mental injury, nobody could understand it. So there were so many narratives thrown around, so many different excuses that were pushed onto me. And I think the shittiest part of all at the Olympics I have very good, like, senses, and I knew something was going to go wrong.
I couldn't pinpoint what it was or when it was going to happen, but I just had this feeling deep down, this is not going to go the way I want it to, and I don't know why, but I have this deep, deep feeling like something's going to happen.
I couldn't pinpoint what it was or when it was going to happen, but I just had this feeling deep down, this is not going to go the way I want it to, and I don't know why, but I have this deep, deep feeling like something's going to happen.
I couldn't pinpoint what it was or when it was going to happen, but I just had this feeling deep down, this is not going to go the way I want it to, and I don't know why, but I have this deep, deep feeling like something's going to happen.
I don't know, but I could feel something. And I felt myself, besides all the pressure, because we deal with that as elite athletes. We have different tactics about how we're going to carry ourselves and how we're going to do whatever so that we can still compete to the best of our ability, you know. But there was something that I could feel that was going to be out of my control.
I don't know, but I could feel something. And I felt myself, besides all the pressure, because we deal with that as elite athletes. We have different tactics about how we're going to carry ourselves and how we're going to do whatever so that we can still compete to the best of our ability, you know. But there was something that I could feel that was going to be out of my control.
I don't know, but I could feel something. And I felt myself, besides all the pressure, because we deal with that as elite athletes. We have different tactics about how we're going to carry ourselves and how we're going to do whatever so that we can still compete to the best of our ability, you know. But there was something that I could feel that was going to be out of my control.
and I didn't know when it was gonna happen or what was gonna happen. But I was like, I just, I felt strange, but I'm not gonna tell anybody on the team that I'm a veteran. It's everyone's first times at the Olympics. Like they're looking up to me and I'm guiding them, taking them through the route. But you know, nothing about that Olympics was normal anyways.
and I didn't know when it was gonna happen or what was gonna happen. But I was like, I just, I felt strange, but I'm not gonna tell anybody on the team that I'm a veteran. It's everyone's first times at the Olympics. Like they're looking up to me and I'm guiding them, taking them through the route. But you know, nothing about that Olympics was normal anyways.
and I didn't know when it was gonna happen or what was gonna happen. But I was like, I just, I felt strange, but I'm not gonna tell anybody on the team that I'm a veteran. It's everyone's first times at the Olympics. Like they're looking up to me and I'm guiding them, taking them through the route. But you know, nothing about that Olympics was normal anyways.
I was only three years old, so I learned that a little bit whenever I was older, but drug and alcohol abuse And so I just don't think that she was around too much and people, you know, would call CPS or see us out and about. So that's kind of what happened. That's when foster care came and got us and placed us into a foster home.
I was only three years old, so I learned that a little bit whenever I was older, but drug and alcohol abuse And so I just don't think that she was around too much and people, you know, would call CPS or see us out and about. So that's kind of what happened. That's when foster care came and got us and placed us into a foster home.
I was only three years old, so I learned that a little bit whenever I was older, but drug and alcohol abuse And so I just don't think that she was around too much and people, you know, would call CPS or see us out and about. So that's kind of what happened. That's when foster care came and got us and placed us into a foster home.
We're having a pandemic, the whole world is shut down. Like nothing about the Olympic games was normal. And I feel for those athletes, that might not ever be able to go to another Olympic Games because that is not what the Olympics is about. In 2016, it was so much fun. The camaraderie, the team spirit, everybody's rooting for everybody. I feel like that's world peace. Time stops.
We're having a pandemic, the whole world is shut down. Like nothing about the Olympic games was normal. And I feel for those athletes, that might not ever be able to go to another Olympic Games because that is not what the Olympics is about. In 2016, it was so much fun. The camaraderie, the team spirit, everybody's rooting for everybody. I feel like that's world peace. Time stops.
We're having a pandemic, the whole world is shut down. Like nothing about the Olympic games was normal. And I feel for those athletes, that might not ever be able to go to another Olympic Games because that is not what the Olympics is about. In 2016, it was so much fun. The camaraderie, the team spirit, everybody's rooting for everybody. I feel like that's world peace. Time stops.
Doesn't matter what color you are, what religion you are, what you support, what you don't support. Everybody comes together to support their athletes and their country. So it was just very strange, but I could feel something like, the wires weren't connected, like the red, the yellow, off.
Doesn't matter what color you are, what religion you are, what you support, what you don't support. Everybody comes together to support their athletes and their country. So it was just very strange, but I could feel something like, the wires weren't connected, like the red, the yellow, off.
Doesn't matter what color you are, what religion you are, what you support, what you don't support. Everybody comes together to support their athletes and their country. So it was just very strange, but I could feel something like, the wires weren't connected, like the red, the yellow, off.
Um, a little bit, but we had been training so hard and we were, we were prepared. Like we were so prepared. I've never been so prepared for an event in my life. I mean, obviously besides 2016, but this felt like a different kind of prepared. Um, and it felt a little bit more calm.
Um, a little bit, but we had been training so hard and we were, we were prepared. Like we were so prepared. I've never been so prepared for an event in my life. I mean, obviously besides 2016, but this felt like a different kind of prepared. Um, and it felt a little bit more calm.
Um, a little bit, but we had been training so hard and we were, we were prepared. Like we were so prepared. I've never been so prepared for an event in my life. I mean, obviously besides 2016, but this felt like a different kind of prepared. Um, and it felt a little bit more calm.
And to me, I was like, it's fine. Take your medicine. And some of the days... We're asking my doctor, I'm gonna take two of my pills. I never take two of my pills, but I was like, something's coming up. It feels like, I don't know what it is, but like, I cannot control this. It is out of my control. So we're gonna control what we can control. Let's take your medicine. Maybe try 20 milligrams.
And to me, I was like, it's fine. Take your medicine. And some of the days... We're asking my doctor, I'm gonna take two of my pills. I never take two of my pills, but I was like, something's coming up. It feels like, I don't know what it is, but like, I cannot control this. It is out of my control. So we're gonna control what we can control. Let's take your medicine. Maybe try 20 milligrams.
And to me, I was like, it's fine. Take your medicine. And some of the days... We're asking my doctor, I'm gonna take two of my pills. I never take two of my pills, but I was like, something's coming up. It feels like, I don't know what it is, but like, I cannot control this. It is out of my control. So we're gonna control what we can control. Let's take your medicine. Maybe try 20 milligrams.
Maybe try this. And it was just like, it was the weirdest experience. And whenever I look back at it, it doesn't seem real life. Which maybe is a good thing. Right. You're like, it's kind of like. It's a good thing till everybody reminds me.
Maybe try this. And it was just like, it was the weirdest experience. And whenever I look back at it, it doesn't seem real life. Which maybe is a good thing. Right. You're like, it's kind of like. It's a good thing till everybody reminds me.
Maybe try this. And it was just like, it was the weirdest experience. And whenever I look back at it, it doesn't seem real life. Which maybe is a good thing. Right. You're like, it's kind of like. It's a good thing till everybody reminds me.
Okay, I'll start from the back of the runway when we're standing there.
Okay, I'll start from the back of the runway when we're standing there.
Okay, I'll start from the back of the runway when we're standing there.
So in the back, like, we already knew my gymnastics was kind of janky, like... In training, I was having twisties already. But I'm trying to push past that. And I would literally tell my teammates, I'm fighting demons. I'm fighting demons right now, but I'm going to do it for you guys. Because the cords were not connected.
So in the back, like, we already knew my gymnastics was kind of janky, like... In training, I was having twisties already. But I'm trying to push past that. And I would literally tell my teammates, I'm fighting demons. I'm fighting demons right now, but I'm going to do it for you guys. Because the cords were not connected.
So in the back, like, we already knew my gymnastics was kind of janky, like... In training, I was having twisties already. But I'm trying to push past that. And I would literally tell my teammates, I'm fighting demons. I'm fighting demons right now, but I'm going to do it for you guys. Because the cords were not connected.
And so the only thing that I remember was just being anxious when we would go to sleep because my brother was in the room next door. And I think... We were just always used to sleeping together or close or whatever because he's not that much older. And mind you, we were three. And so I just had anxiety problems. So we were in a girls' room. They had girls' rooms and boys' rooms.
And so the only thing that I remember was just being anxious when we would go to sleep because my brother was in the room next door. And I think... We were just always used to sleeping together or close or whatever because he's not that much older. And mind you, we were three. And so I just had anxiety problems. So we were in a girls' room. They had girls' rooms and boys' rooms.
And so the only thing that I remember was just being anxious when we would go to sleep because my brother was in the room next door. And I think... We were just always used to sleeping together or close or whatever because he's not that much older. And mind you, we were three. And so I just had anxiety problems. So we were in a girls' room. They had girls' rooms and boys' rooms.
So I literally felt like I was fighting my body and my mind to do these tricks. So we're trying to do some different things in the back. And I'm like, OK, I can't do a full and off beam.
So I literally felt like I was fighting my body and my mind to do these tricks. So we're trying to do some different things in the back. And I'm like, OK, I can't do a full and off beam.
So I literally felt like I was fighting my body and my mind to do these tricks. So we're trying to do some different things in the back. And I'm like, OK, I can't do a full and off beam.
Can I please go back to my double double which is way harder, but I know if I twist more it's better for me So then we go to vault vault is feeling a little bit weird in the air and you can see it like the girls We ended on floor because we started on vault out there So we end on floor I go to do my first pass and you can see in the air like you can ask the girls it's not like my first pass is a triple double and usually when you do it you see my regular videos and
Can I please go back to my double double which is way harder, but I know if I twist more it's better for me So then we go to vault vault is feeling a little bit weird in the air and you can see it like the girls We ended on floor because we started on vault out there So we end on floor I go to do my first pass and you can see in the air like you can ask the girls it's not like my first pass is a triple double and usually when you do it you see my regular videos and
Can I please go back to my double double which is way harder, but I know if I twist more it's better for me So then we go to vault vault is feeling a little bit weird in the air and you can see it like the girls We ended on floor because we started on vault out there So we end on floor I go to do my first pass and you can see in the air like you can ask the girls it's not like my first pass is a triple double and usually when you do it you see my regular videos and
You see one, you see two, you see three. This one, it looks like I'm going like this in the air and it doesn't feel comfortable. I have no idea where I am, but I'm twisting, like praying land on my feet. And they're like, that looks jacked up. You can tell all of the gymnasts in there from all of the countries are like, that's jacked up. That looks jacked up.
You see one, you see two, you see three. This one, it looks like I'm going like this in the air and it doesn't feel comfortable. I have no idea where I am, but I'm twisting, like praying land on my feet. And they're like, that looks jacked up. You can tell all of the gymnasts in there from all of the countries are like, that's jacked up. That looks jacked up.
You see one, you see two, you see three. This one, it looks like I'm going like this in the air and it doesn't feel comfortable. I have no idea where I am, but I'm twisting, like praying land on my feet. And they're like, that looks jacked up. You can tell all of the gymnasts in there from all of the countries are like, that's jacked up. That looks jacked up.
It looks like she's never done this day in her life, but they know it's a twisty. So people were kind of trying not to watch. We get out there and ball it. And I was like, okay, it's fine. I warmed up everything. Like it wasn't good, but I did it. And so we get out there on vol and we have a one touch warm up. Go over to the table, do a one and a half. And I'm like, what the fuck? What was that?
It looks like she's never done this day in her life, but they know it's a twisty. So people were kind of trying not to watch. We get out there and ball it. And I was like, okay, it's fine. I warmed up everything. Like it wasn't good, but I did it. And so we get out there on vol and we have a one touch warm up. Go over to the table, do a one and a half. And I'm like, what the fuck? What was that?
It looks like she's never done this day in her life, but they know it's a twisty. So people were kind of trying not to watch. We get out there and ball it. And I was like, okay, it's fine. I warmed up everything. Like it wasn't good, but I did it. And so we get out there on vol and we have a one touch warm up. Go over to the table, do a one and a half. And I'm like, what the fuck? What was that?
And so I'm like, it's fine. And everybody's freaking out. I don't have another touch. So I have to go stand there until it's my turn to salute and go. I don't have another touch.
And so I'm like, it's fine. And everybody's freaking out. I don't have another touch. So I have to go stand there until it's my turn to salute and go. I don't have another touch.
And so I'm like, it's fine. And everybody's freaking out. I don't have another touch. So I have to go stand there until it's my turn to salute and go. I don't have another touch.
Yes, gymnastics, once we go out there, we usually have a one-touch vault. And it is what it is. It's to warm up. You're usually sitting in the back for 40, 45 minutes. Come out. You get one turn to take to warm up your vault to perfection. And then you sit there and wait until it's your turn to salute and go. Hey, I'm at the Olympics. You know, that's your debut before, you know?
Yes, gymnastics, once we go out there, we usually have a one-touch vault. And it is what it is. It's to warm up. You're usually sitting in the back for 40, 45 minutes. Come out. You get one turn to take to warm up your vault to perfection. And then you sit there and wait until it's your turn to salute and go. Hey, I'm at the Olympics. You know, that's your debut before, you know?
Yes, gymnastics, once we go out there, we usually have a one-touch vault. And it is what it is. It's to warm up. You're usually sitting in the back for 40, 45 minutes. Come out. You get one turn to take to warm up your vault to perfection. And then you sit there and wait until it's your turn to salute and go. Hey, I'm at the Olympics. You know, that's your debut before, you know?
And so we go out there and I do the one and a half and my teammates are shook. They're like, are you okay? Are you okay? And I'm trying to convince myself I'm okay. So I don't need you asking me if I'm okay. Because I'm okay. Listen, I'm okay.
And so we go out there and I do the one and a half and my teammates are shook. They're like, are you okay? Are you okay? And I'm trying to convince myself I'm okay. So I don't need you asking me if I'm okay. Because I'm okay. Listen, I'm okay.
And so we go out there and I do the one and a half and my teammates are shook. They're like, are you okay? Are you okay? And I'm trying to convince myself I'm okay. So I don't need you asking me if I'm okay. Because I'm okay. Listen, I'm okay.
Like everything is fine. Yeah, literally. And so they're like, you're fine. And I was like, I don't know why I did that. I don't know why. And I knew once I got up there, I'm chalking up. We can't put Jordan in yet. I have to go. I have to put up a score. No matter what it is over the table, I have to put up a score.
Like everything is fine. Yeah, literally. And so they're like, you're fine. And I was like, I don't know why I did that. I don't know why. And I knew once I got up there, I'm chalking up. We can't put Jordan in yet. I have to go. I have to put up a score. No matter what it is over the table, I have to put up a score.
Like everything is fine. Yeah, literally. And so they're like, you're fine. And I was like, I don't know why I did that. I don't know why. And I knew once I got up there, I'm chalking up. We can't put Jordan in yet. I have to go. I have to put up a score. No matter what it is over the table, I have to put up a score.
So I'm chalking up and you can see if you watch the video, I'm like, because I have no idea what I'm going to do when I hit that table. And so in my head, I'm standing there and I'm like, I'll just do the double pike, which I haven't warmed up in like four days. And I'm like, if I do a double pike, over rotate it, it's fine. And then I was like, they put up a score for a two and a half.
So I'm chalking up and you can see if you watch the video, I'm like, because I have no idea what I'm going to do when I hit that table. And so in my head, I'm standing there and I'm like, I'll just do the double pike, which I haven't warmed up in like four days. And I'm like, if I do a double pike, over rotate it, it's fine. And then I was like, they put up a score for a two and a half.
So I'm chalking up and you can see if you watch the video, I'm like, because I have no idea what I'm going to do when I hit that table. And so in my head, I'm standing there and I'm like, I'll just do the double pike, which I haven't warmed up in like four days. And I'm like, if I do a double pike, over rotate it, it's fine. And then I was like, they put up a score for a two and a half.
So I have to do a two and a half. And I'm thinking if I do a double back, that's so dangerous. My coach will kill me. My team will never forgive. And I saluted and I was like, praying to God, because I knew I was going to do a vault, but I didn't know what I was going to do. And I knew I was going to try to do a two and a half, but I didn't know how many twists I was going to make.
So I have to do a two and a half. And I'm thinking if I do a double back, that's so dangerous. My coach will kill me. My team will never forgive. And I saluted and I was like, praying to God, because I knew I was going to do a vault, but I didn't know what I was going to do. And I knew I was going to try to do a two and a half, but I didn't know how many twists I was going to make.
So I have to do a two and a half. And I'm thinking if I do a double back, that's so dangerous. My coach will kill me. My team will never forgive. And I saluted and I was like, praying to God, because I knew I was going to do a vault, but I didn't know what I was going to do. And I knew I was going to try to do a two and a half, but I didn't know how many twists I was going to make.
And I just, because I couldn't twist anymore. It's just like your body, your brain opens up, have no idea where you are. So I opened, landed like that. And as soon as I land, I kind of grin and I'm like, and I salute. And I want to run. If I could have gotten a plane and flown home, I would have done it. But I just, as soon as I landed, I was like, oh, America hates me.
And I just, because I couldn't twist anymore. It's just like your body, your brain opens up, have no idea where you are. So I opened, landed like that. And as soon as I land, I kind of grin and I'm like, and I salute. And I want to run. If I could have gotten a plane and flown home, I would have done it. But I just, as soon as I landed, I was like, oh, America hates me.
And I just, because I couldn't twist anymore. It's just like your body, your brain opens up, have no idea where you are. So I opened, landed like that. And as soon as I land, I kind of grin and I'm like, and I salute. And I want to run. If I could have gotten a plane and flown home, I would have done it. But I just, as soon as I landed, I was like, oh, America hates me.
The world is going to hate me. And I can only see what they're saying on Twitter right now. That was my first thought. I was like, holy shit. What are they going to say about me? Because usually if you go to the Olympics and you flop or whatever it is, everybody on their couch eating those little chips. Right.
The world is going to hate me. And I can only see what they're saying on Twitter right now. That was my first thought. I was like, holy shit. What are they going to say about me? Because usually if you go to the Olympics and you flop or whatever it is, everybody on their couch eating those little chips. Right.
The world is going to hate me. And I can only see what they're saying on Twitter right now. That was my first thought. I was like, holy shit. What are they going to say about me? Because usually if you go to the Olympics and you flop or whatever it is, everybody on their couch eating those little chips. Right.
And from my knowledge that sometimes during the night or during the day, they would take kids out and replace them into a different home. And that's usually how siblings were separated. So I was just so terrified that if I woke up, my brother wouldn't be there. Even though I was with my sister, I was like, oh, we all have to stay together, kind of that thing. even from a young age.
And from my knowledge that sometimes during the night or during the day, they would take kids out and replace them into a different home. And that's usually how siblings were separated. So I was just so terrified that if I woke up, my brother wouldn't be there. Even though I was with my sister, I was like, oh, we all have to stay together, kind of that thing. even from a young age.
And from my knowledge that sometimes during the night or during the day, they would take kids out and replace them into a different home. And that's usually how siblings were separated. So I was just so terrified that if I woke up, my brother wouldn't be there. Even though I was with my sister, I was like, oh, we all have to stay together, kind of that thing. even from a young age.
Oh, I thought I was going to be banned from America. Because that's what they tell you. Don't come back. If it's not gold, gold or bust. Don't come back.
Oh, I thought I was going to be banned from America. Because that's what they tell you. Don't come back. If it's not gold, gold or bust. Don't come back.
Oh, I thought I was going to be banned from America. Because that's what they tell you. Don't come back. If it's not gold, gold or bust. Don't come back.
Yeah. I was like, no, I'm going to be one of those videos flops at the Olympics. Like, this is horrible. And I knew I couldn't recover. And I knew I know how long the twisties takes to get over. And I know it's not overnight.
Yeah. I was like, no, I'm going to be one of those videos flops at the Olympics. Like, this is horrible. And I knew I couldn't recover. And I knew I know how long the twisties takes to get over. And I know it's not overnight.
Yeah. I was like, no, I'm going to be one of those videos flops at the Olympics. Like, this is horrible. And I knew I couldn't recover. And I knew I know how long the twisties takes to get over. And I know it's not overnight.
OK, if I had to explain it in gymnastics terms, it might not make sense, but it's basically like. Your mind and your body is at a disconnect. Your body is going to try to do something and your mind is going to be like, no, you're not doing this work. You're going to open out. You're going to do this. But it's the same as if like the best way I could describe it is every day you drive a car.
OK, if I had to explain it in gymnastics terms, it might not make sense, but it's basically like. Your mind and your body is at a disconnect. Your body is going to try to do something and your mind is going to be like, no, you're not doing this work. You're going to open out. You're going to do this. But it's the same as if like the best way I could describe it is every day you drive a car.
OK, if I had to explain it in gymnastics terms, it might not make sense, but it's basically like. Your mind and your body is at a disconnect. Your body is going to try to do something and your mind is going to be like, no, you're not doing this work. You're going to open out. You're going to do this. But it's the same as if like the best way I could describe it is every day you drive a car.
If one day you woke up and you had no idea how to drive a car, your legs are going crazy. You have no control over your body. That's kind of how it feels like you've been doing something for so long. And you now no longer have control. And it's terrifying because we're in a car without any protection. I am my car. So I would explain it as like the yips in golf or baseball or whatever it is.
If one day you woke up and you had no idea how to drive a car, your legs are going crazy. You have no control over your body. That's kind of how it feels like you've been doing something for so long. And you now no longer have control. And it's terrifying because we're in a car without any protection. I am my car. So I would explain it as like the yips in golf or baseball or whatever it is.
If one day you woke up and you had no idea how to drive a car, your legs are going crazy. You have no control over your body. That's kind of how it feels like you've been doing something for so long. And you now no longer have control. And it's terrifying because we're in a car without any protection. I am my car. So I would explain it as like the yips in golf or baseball or whatever it is.
I'm not familiar with other sports. So if I'm wrong, correct me. But that's kind of how it feels like. So-
I'm not familiar with other sports. So if I'm wrong, correct me. But that's kind of how it feels like. So-
I'm not familiar with other sports. So if I'm wrong, correct me. But that's kind of how it feels like. So-
I go to tell my coach. And I said, I'm done. I'm not doing anymore. Because if I survive that, I don't know how much else I can survive. Like, I always say I'm a cat with nine lives. But I think that was my ninth. I'm done. And she's like, are you sure? And I was like, yes, Jordan, gear up. You're in. You're doing the rest of the meet. I'm not. Like, I can't do it.
I go to tell my coach. And I said, I'm done. I'm not doing anymore. Because if I survive that, I don't know how much else I can survive. Like, I always say I'm a cat with nine lives. But I think that was my ninth. I'm done. And she's like, are you sure? And I was like, yes, Jordan, gear up. You're in. You're doing the rest of the meet. I'm not. Like, I can't do it.
I go to tell my coach. And I said, I'm done. I'm not doing anymore. Because if I survive that, I don't know how much else I can survive. Like, I always say I'm a cat with nine lives. But I think that was my ninth. I'm done. And she's like, are you sure? And I was like, yes, Jordan, gear up. You're in. You're doing the rest of the meet. I'm not. Like, I can't do it.
Internally. But I didn't want to freak out in front of the girls.
Internally. But I didn't want to freak out in front of the girls.
Internally. But I didn't want to freak out in front of the girls.
So I kept, like, as composed as I could have. And I was like, you guys got this. And then they just went, we went to the back just to get evaluated like mentally and physically. But we also didn't want to, I didn't want to scare the girls. So I was like, can we please go? And there's cameras, all the cameras rush over.
So I kept, like, as composed as I could have. And I was like, you guys got this. And then they just went, we went to the back just to get evaluated like mentally and physically. But we also didn't want to, I didn't want to scare the girls. So I was like, can we please go? And there's cameras, all the cameras rush over.
So I kept, like, as composed as I could have. And I was like, you guys got this. And then they just went, we went to the back just to get evaluated like mentally and physically. But we also didn't want to, I didn't want to scare the girls. So I was like, can we please go? And there's cameras, all the cameras rush over.
And I was just like, because I know what happened, but I also don't know what happened and why it happened. So we just went in the back. The girls are gearing up for bars. I come back out and I was like, you guys got this. You'll be fine. Trust me. And they were like, no, we can't do this without you. We're not going to win anymore.
And I was just like, because I know what happened, but I also don't know what happened and why it happened. So we just went in the back. The girls are gearing up for bars. I come back out and I was like, you guys got this. You'll be fine. Trust me. And they were like, no, we can't do this without you. We're not going to win anymore.
And I was just like, because I know what happened, but I also don't know what happened and why it happened. So we just went in the back. The girls are gearing up for bars. I come back out and I was like, you guys got this. You'll be fine. Trust me. And they were like, no, we can't do this without you. We're not going to win anymore.
They're freaking out because they also know what Twitter is going to say if US doesn't win. And I was like, don't worry about it. You guys are here because you're the best in the world and you will be like, go out there and do your job. But I think it was really hard on them because mentally they lost their best player, the veteran. I think it was really hard on them.
They're freaking out because they also know what Twitter is going to say if US doesn't win. And I was like, don't worry about it. You guys are here because you're the best in the world and you will be like, go out there and do your job. But I think it was really hard on them because mentally they lost their best player, the veteran. I think it was really hard on them.
They're freaking out because they also know what Twitter is going to say if US doesn't win. And I was like, don't worry about it. You guys are here because you're the best in the world and you will be like, go out there and do your job. But I think it was really hard on them because mentally they lost their best player, the veteran. I think it was really hard on them.
So that's something that I'll never forgive myself for, for that whole entire experience because I wish I could have been in there with them in a way that I was supposed to physically, putting up team scores, putting them, But after that, I became their loudest and best cheerleader. But I just wish it would have been contributing the way that it was supposed to happen.
So that's something that I'll never forgive myself for, for that whole entire experience because I wish I could have been in there with them in a way that I was supposed to physically, putting up team scores, putting them, But after that, I became their loudest and best cheerleader. But I just wish it would have been contributing the way that it was supposed to happen.
So that's something that I'll never forgive myself for, for that whole entire experience because I wish I could have been in there with them in a way that I was supposed to physically, putting up team scores, putting them, But after that, I became their loudest and best cheerleader. But I just wish it would have been contributing the way that it was supposed to happen.
So I'd always sneak in and go sleep with him because I'm like, oh, this is my brother. You know, because I didn't understand the separation whenever at nighttime. Fast forward a couple years later, I was at gym and I knew I was adopted. From the moment we were adopted, my family told us, you guys are adopted. And I was like, cool, okay.
So I'd always sneak in and go sleep with him because I'm like, oh, this is my brother. You know, because I didn't understand the separation whenever at nighttime. Fast forward a couple years later, I was at gym and I knew I was adopted. From the moment we were adopted, my family told us, you guys are adopted. And I was like, cool, okay.
So I'd always sneak in and go sleep with him because I'm like, oh, this is my brother. You know, because I didn't understand the separation whenever at nighttime. Fast forward a couple years later, I was at gym and I knew I was adopted. From the moment we were adopted, my family told us, you guys are adopted. And I was like, cool, okay.
And that's what I was doing. That's what I was putting myself through in the back. And that's why... I don't know how I made it that far through warmups, through competing. I don't know how I landed on my feet. And I think that's what people don't realize is like, that's not the vault that I was supposed to compete. I had a whole nother full twist that I was supposed to compete.
And that's what I was doing. That's what I was putting myself through in the back. And that's why... I don't know how I made it that far through warmups, through competing. I don't know how I landed on my feet. And I think that's what people don't realize is like, that's not the vault that I was supposed to compete. I had a whole nother full twist that I was supposed to compete.
And that's what I was doing. That's what I was putting myself through in the back. And that's why... I don't know how I made it that far through warmups, through competing. I don't know how I landed on my feet. And I think that's what people don't realize is like, that's not the vault that I was supposed to compete. I had a whole nother full twist that I was supposed to compete.
So they're like, she didn't want to lose. And I was like, no, no, no, no, no. I'm not like, my pride is not that big. Like, You know what I'm saying? So at that point, it's like, you know what? I need to take care of myself and I need to do what's right for my team. And yeah, I need to let my pride not get in the way and push through this just to compete, to compete at the Olympics again.
So they're like, she didn't want to lose. And I was like, no, no, no, no, no. I'm not like, my pride is not that big. Like, You know what I'm saying? So at that point, it's like, you know what? I need to take care of myself and I need to do what's right for my team. And yeah, I need to let my pride not get in the way and push through this just to compete, to compete at the Olympics again.
So they're like, she didn't want to lose. And I was like, no, no, no, no, no. I'm not like, my pride is not that big. Like, You know what I'm saying? So at that point, it's like, you know what? I need to take care of myself and I need to do what's right for my team. And yeah, I need to let my pride not get in the way and push through this just to compete, to compete at the Olympics again.
I need to go sit down, take a rest, see what's wrong mentally, and let's figure it out. But let's still give my team a chance of medal contention. Because again, what people also don't realize is if I got hurt on that vault, they couldn't replace me. So if I got hurt Since I'm on every event, it's two up, two count. We would have never won a medal.
I need to go sit down, take a rest, see what's wrong mentally, and let's figure it out. But let's still give my team a chance of medal contention. Because again, what people also don't realize is if I got hurt on that vault, they couldn't replace me. So if I got hurt Since I'm on every event, it's two up, two count. We would have never won a medal.
I need to go sit down, take a rest, see what's wrong mentally, and let's figure it out. But let's still give my team a chance of medal contention. Because again, what people also don't realize is if I got hurt on that vault, they couldn't replace me. So if I got hurt Since I'm on every event, it's two up, two count. We would have never won a medal.
But since what happened happened, we went to the back. At that point, they could rule it as a mental injury and all of that stuff and physical. We got to put Jordan in. People don't know that.
But since what happened happened, we went to the back. At that point, they could rule it as a mental injury and all of that stuff and physical. We got to put Jordan in. People don't know that.
But since what happened happened, we went to the back. At that point, they could rule it as a mental injury and all of that stuff and physical. We got to put Jordan in. People don't know that.
Doctors came over. I had to talk to my family because they were watching the Olympics and they see me get whisked to the back. So they thought I was hurt. And I'm like, yeah, I'm hurt. My heart is broken. Like everything hurts, but my knees are fine. I'm like, my brain hurts, like everything. So I called my family and it's so funny because my sister was sleeping. No.
Doctors came over. I had to talk to my family because they were watching the Olympics and they see me get whisked to the back. So they thought I was hurt. And I'm like, yeah, I'm hurt. My heart is broken. Like everything hurts, but my knees are fine. I'm like, my brain hurts, like everything. So I called my family and it's so funny because my sister was sleeping. No.
Doctors came over. I had to talk to my family because they were watching the Olympics and they see me get whisked to the back. So they thought I was hurt. And I'm like, yeah, I'm hurt. My heart is broken. Like everything hurts, but my knees are fine. I'm like, my brain hurts, like everything. So I called my family and it's so funny because my sister was sleeping. No.
Like bitch, I'm at the Olympics. Why are you sleeping? But there's a time change. So I get it. But everybody's in up in the house cheering for me, Simone gear on. And my sister's like, I think I'll take a nap.
Like bitch, I'm at the Olympics. Why are you sleeping? But there's a time change. So I get it. But everybody's in up in the house cheering for me, Simone gear on. And my sister's like, I think I'll take a nap.
Like bitch, I'm at the Olympics. Why are you sleeping? But there's a time change. So I get it. But everybody's in up in the house cheering for me, Simone gear on. And my sister's like, I think I'll take a nap.
Should they wake her up? No. She heard the phone ring because I called the home phone. And she said she was sleeping and she felt something was wrong. She ran to the kitchen and said, I'll answer it. And saw my name on it.
Should they wake her up? No. She heard the phone ring because I called the home phone. And she said she was sleeping and she felt something was wrong. She ran to the kitchen and said, I'll answer it. And saw my name on it.
Should they wake her up? No. She heard the phone ring because I called the home phone. And she said she was sleeping and she felt something was wrong. She ran to the kitchen and said, I'll answer it. And saw my name on it.
Freaky. And she answered and she said, hello. And as soon as I heard her voice, I just, I lost it.
Freaky. And she answered and she said, hello. And as soon as I heard her voice, I just, I lost it.
Freaky. And she answered and she said, hello. And as soon as I heard her voice, I just, I lost it.
I was like, I'm out. I'm done. And she was like, are you okay? And I was like, what? Yeah, can you hand the phone to mom? I'm like.
I was like, I'm out. I'm done. And she was like, are you okay? And I was like, what? Yeah, can you hand the phone to mom? I'm like.
I was like, I'm out. I'm done. And she was like, are you okay? And I was like, what? Yeah, can you hand the phone to mom? I'm like.
Like, I don't know what that means. And then they had asked us if we wanted to call them mom and dad.
Like, I don't know what that means. And then they had asked us if we wanted to call them mom and dad.
Like, I don't know what that means. And then they had asked us if we wanted to call them mom and dad.
She was like, are you okay? Because that was her main concern. She thought I got hurt.
She was like, are you okay? Because that was her main concern. She thought I got hurt.
She was like, are you okay? Because that was her main concern. She thought I got hurt.
And at that point, like, yeah, I wish my toe was sticking on the side of my foot or my knees were cracked or something because that would have been easier to explain.
And at that point, like, yeah, I wish my toe was sticking on the side of my foot or my knees were cracked or something because that would have been easier to explain.
And at that point, like, yeah, I wish my toe was sticking on the side of my foot or my knees were cracked or something because that would have been easier to explain.
Yeah. And I'm like, yeah, sorry I came here. My brain just decided to have a malfunction and break. Yeah, how do you describe that to people?
Yeah. And I'm like, yeah, sorry I came here. My brain just decided to have a malfunction and break. Yeah, how do you describe that to people?
Yeah. And I'm like, yeah, sorry I came here. My brain just decided to have a malfunction and break. Yeah, how do you describe that to people?
That's what I'm saying. But then whenever I really talked about it and there were actually a lot of people that understood and we got a lot of positive feedback and that's why I was like, you know what?
That's what I'm saying. But then whenever I really talked about it and there were actually a lot of people that understood and we got a lot of positive feedback and that's why I was like, you know what?
That's what I'm saying. But then whenever I really talked about it and there were actually a lot of people that understood and we got a lot of positive feedback and that's why I was like, you know what?
You're not going to put me at the forefront of mental health, but again, if I can be a voice, let's go through this journey together because I know unfortunately a lot of us are struggling, but let's walk this journey together and let's go get healthy. absolutely.
You're not going to put me at the forefront of mental health, but again, if I can be a voice, let's go through this journey together because I know unfortunately a lot of us are struggling, but let's walk this journey together and let's go get healthy. absolutely.
You're not going to put me at the forefront of mental health, but again, if I can be a voice, let's go through this journey together because I know unfortunately a lot of us are struggling, but let's walk this journey together and let's go get healthy. absolutely.
from my knowledge I was like perfect like why wouldn't I and so it was just super strange to me because I remember this day at gym we were talking about our families and they had said something and I was like oh well I'm adopted and it's felt like everything in the room in the gym stopped and they were like what you're adopted because that was not to their knowledge and I was like
from my knowledge I was like perfect like why wouldn't I and so it was just super strange to me because I remember this day at gym we were talking about our families and they had said something and I was like oh well I'm adopted and it's felt like everything in the room in the gym stopped and they were like what you're adopted because that was not to their knowledge and I was like
from my knowledge I was like perfect like why wouldn't I and so it was just super strange to me because I remember this day at gym we were talking about our families and they had said something and I was like oh well I'm adopted and it's felt like everything in the room in the gym stopped and they were like what you're adopted because that was not to their knowledge and I was like
My dad is always so calm and collected, it seems. So he was probably like, oh, is she okay? But probably not even that concerned. He was probably like, is she okay? Okay. Okay. Like, I think that's just what he was doing. My mom was like a mess. I could hear her crying and breaking down and that's what broke me too. It's because also I have so many people who have helped me
My dad is always so calm and collected, it seems. So he was probably like, oh, is she okay? But probably not even that concerned. He was probably like, is she okay? Okay. Okay. Like, I think that's just what he was doing. My mom was like a mess. I could hear her crying and breaking down and that's what broke me too. It's because also I have so many people who have helped me
My dad is always so calm and collected, it seems. So he was probably like, oh, is she okay? But probably not even that concerned. He was probably like, is she okay? Okay. Okay. Like, I think that's just what he was doing. My mom was like a mess. I could hear her crying and breaking down and that's what broke me too. It's because also I have so many people who have helped me
get to where I was, and I felt like I didn't just let down myself, I let down that team that was there, I let down America, I let down my trainers, I let down, there were so many people that helped me get there, and that's why every time I get to compete for Team USA, or I'm on top of that podium, I'm so grateful, and that medal's not just for me, it's for everybody that has helped me get there.
get to where I was, and I felt like I didn't just let down myself, I let down that team that was there, I let down America, I let down my trainers, I let down, there were so many people that helped me get there, and that's why every time I get to compete for Team USA, or I'm on top of that podium, I'm so grateful, and that medal's not just for me, it's for everybody that has helped me get there.
get to where I was, and I felt like I didn't just let down myself, I let down that team that was there, I let down America, I let down my trainers, I let down, there were so many people that helped me get there, and that's why every time I get to compete for Team USA, or I'm on top of that podium, I'm so grateful, and that medal's not just for me, it's for everybody that has helped me get there.
So it's like, at that point it was really heavy, because I was like, I couldn't even, at that point, I couldn't even look at Laurent. Like Cecile helped me so much, but I couldn't look at Laurent. Why? I felt like I failed him. And I've never said that out loud, so it's like, and they've helped me get to that point, because I never thought I was gonna do gymnastics again.
So it's like, at that point it was really heavy, because I was like, I couldn't even, at that point, I couldn't even look at Laurent. Like Cecile helped me so much, but I couldn't look at Laurent. Why? I felt like I failed him. And I've never said that out loud, so it's like, and they've helped me get to that point, because I never thought I was gonna do gymnastics again.
So it's like, at that point it was really heavy, because I was like, I couldn't even, at that point, I couldn't even look at Laurent. Like Cecile helped me so much, but I couldn't look at Laurent. Why? I felt like I failed him. And I've never said that out loud, so it's like, and they've helped me get to that point, because I never thought I was gonna do gymnastics again.
And so I felt like I let down Laurent.
And so I felt like I let down Laurent.
And so I felt like I let down Laurent.
He doesn't let, he tries not to let anything get to him. And I knew that got to him.
He doesn't let, he tries not to let anything get to him. And I knew that got to him.
He doesn't let, he tries not to let anything get to him. And I knew that got to him.
I changed my routine because I didn't have to twist. Flipping wasn't necessarily the problem. It was flipping and twisting. And so one of the gyms there let me go train there. And I have, like, videos from that too. And so they let me change my dismount. And I've done a full in for, like, eight or, like, seven years or eight years. I hadn't done a double pike in, like, that long.
I changed my routine because I didn't have to twist. Flipping wasn't necessarily the problem. It was flipping and twisting. And so one of the gyms there let me go train there. And I have, like, videos from that too. And so they let me change my dismount. And I've done a full in for, like, eight or, like, seven years or eight years. I hadn't done a double pike in, like, that long.
I changed my routine because I didn't have to twist. Flipping wasn't necessarily the problem. It was flipping and twisting. And so one of the gyms there let me go train there. And I have, like, videos from that too. And so they let me change my dismount. And I've done a full in for, like, eight or, like, seven years or eight years. I hadn't done a double pike in, like, that long.
So going back and trying to control that, and I kept over-rotating it, was insane, I was so scared because my dismount is typically harder. And so I was like, okay, I can still do beam if we change my dismount. And we were able to change it and at that point I didn't think I was gonna medal. I was like, I just wanna go out there, compete, because this is what I came here to do.
So going back and trying to control that, and I kept over-rotating it, was insane, I was so scared because my dismount is typically harder. And so I was like, okay, I can still do beam if we change my dismount. And we were able to change it and at that point I didn't think I was gonna medal. I was like, I just wanna go out there, compete, because this is what I came here to do.
So going back and trying to control that, and I kept over-rotating it, was insane, I was so scared because my dismount is typically harder. And so I was like, okay, I can still do beam if we change my dismount. And we were able to change it and at that point I didn't think I was gonna medal. I was like, I just wanna go out there, compete, because this is what I came here to do.
Because I pulled out of every final, but every time I pulled out of a final, I felt like it was another night.
Because I pulled out of every final, but every time I pulled out of a final, I felt like it was another night.
Because I pulled out of every final, but every time I pulled out of a final, I felt like it was another night.
so um i got to do beam and i was really excited and then of course a lot of people hated that well of course she's gonna do it for herself and i was like you don't see me twisting do you still not twisting but um yeah once the score came up i was like oh thank god like made a beam routine and then we saw that i was gonna medal and i hit cecile and i said A bronze?
so um i got to do beam and i was really excited and then of course a lot of people hated that well of course she's gonna do it for herself and i was like you don't see me twisting do you still not twisting but um yeah once the score came up i was like oh thank god like made a beam routine and then we saw that i was gonna medal and i hit cecile and i said A bronze?
so um i got to do beam and i was really excited and then of course a lot of people hated that well of course she's gonna do it for herself and i was like you don't see me twisting do you still not twisting but um yeah once the score came up i was like oh thank god like made a beam routine and then we saw that i was gonna medal and i hit cecile and i said A bronze?
And after Rio, I got a bronze on beam. And I was shunned. And people were like, throw that medal away. You should have got a gold because I did mess up. But there's no telling what the medal would have been. But I did mess up. So I ended up with a bronze. And so... I was scarred from having a bronze medal because I never really talked about my bronze because people made me so ashamed of it in Rio.
And after Rio, I got a bronze on beam. And I was shunned. And people were like, throw that medal away. You should have got a gold because I did mess up. But there's no telling what the medal would have been. But I did mess up. So I ended up with a bronze. And so... I was scarred from having a bronze medal because I never really talked about my bronze because people made me so ashamed of it in Rio.
And after Rio, I got a bronze on beam. And I was shunned. And people were like, throw that medal away. You should have got a gold because I did mess up. But there's no telling what the medal would have been. But I did mess up. So I ended up with a bronze. And so... I was scarred from having a bronze medal because I never really talked about my bronze because people made me so ashamed of it in Rio.
And so whenever I got that bronze, you couldn't tell me that it was bronze. It felt like a gold to me. Right, you're like, I'm just happy I got a medal.
And so whenever I got that bronze, you couldn't tell me that it was bronze. It felt like a gold to me. Right, you're like, I'm just happy I got a medal.
And so whenever I got that bronze, you couldn't tell me that it was bronze. It felt like a gold to me. Right, you're like, I'm just happy I got a medal.
I'm happy I got back out there.
I'm happy I got back out there.
I'm happy I got back out there.
Why is everyone freaking out? And so I was like, well, you know, my parents, those are my grandparents. My uncles, that I call my brother now, those were my uncles. And so I just remember we all sat on the floor. Practice stopped because everybody needed to know the story. Like, the coaches were intrigued, everybody. They were like, you're adopted?
Why is everyone freaking out? And so I was like, well, you know, my parents, those are my grandparents. My uncles, that I call my brother now, those were my uncles. And so I just remember we all sat on the floor. Practice stopped because everybody needed to know the story. Like, the coaches were intrigued, everybody. They were like, you're adopted?
Why is everyone freaking out? And so I was like, well, you know, my parents, those are my grandparents. My uncles, that I call my brother now, those were my uncles. And so I just remember we all sat on the floor. Practice stopped because everybody needed to know the story. Like, the coaches were intrigued, everybody. They were like, you're adopted?
I'll take a bronze. Yeah, so it's just like... From one spectrum to the other, from having a real bronze to a Tokyo bronze, it's like polar opposites. Like I'm swinging that thing around.
I'll take a bronze. Yeah, so it's just like... From one spectrum to the other, from having a real bronze to a Tokyo bronze, it's like polar opposites. Like I'm swinging that thing around.
I'll take a bronze. Yeah, so it's just like... From one spectrum to the other, from having a real bronze to a Tokyo bronze, it's like polar opposites. Like I'm swinging that thing around.
Yeah, I was mentally, physically exhausted, drained. I have nothing left, and I can't put on a face anymore. I physically could not wait to land in Houston, and they made us go to New York to do the Today Show. And so I got my hair and makeup done, whatever. Still putting on a great face, because I'm like, all I want to do is hold my mom and cry. I want my mom. Like, I just want my mom.
Yeah, I was mentally, physically exhausted, drained. I have nothing left, and I can't put on a face anymore. I physically could not wait to land in Houston, and they made us go to New York to do the Today Show. And so I got my hair and makeup done, whatever. Still putting on a great face, because I'm like, all I want to do is hold my mom and cry. I want my mom. Like, I just want my mom.
Yeah, I was mentally, physically exhausted, drained. I have nothing left, and I can't put on a face anymore. I physically could not wait to land in Houston, and they made us go to New York to do the Today Show. And so I got my hair and makeup done, whatever. Still putting on a great face, because I'm like, all I want to do is hold my mom and cry. I want my mom. Like, I just want my mom.
And, like, just for today, so, sweetie, smile. Yeah. And so as soon as we landed in Houston, again, there was at the gate so many cameras, so I still had to put on a face. I couldn't break down. But I hugged my mom, and I just, like, felt comforted. But I couldn't break down until we got home. And guess what? When I got home, they threw a parade. And they were like... Get ready, Simone.
And, like, just for today, so, sweetie, smile. Yeah. And so as soon as we landed in Houston, again, there was at the gate so many cameras, so I still had to put on a face. I couldn't break down. But I hugged my mom, and I just, like, felt comforted. But I couldn't break down until we got home. And guess what? When I got home, they threw a parade. And they were like... Get ready, Simone.
And, like, just for today, so, sweetie, smile. Yeah. And so as soon as we landed in Houston, again, there was at the gate so many cameras, so I still had to put on a face. I couldn't break down. But I hugged my mom, and I just, like, felt comforted. But I couldn't break down until we got home. And guess what? When I got home, they threw a parade. And they were like... Get ready, Simone.
We have a parade through the neighborhood. Like, get your convertible. Smile and wave. I just wanted to have, like, a breakdown. And I didn't want to have it. This mental breakdown, it was waiting.
We have a parade through the neighborhood. Like, get your convertible. Smile and wave. I just wanted to have, like, a breakdown. And I didn't want to have it. This mental breakdown, it was waiting.
We have a parade through the neighborhood. Like, get your convertible. Smile and wave. I just wanted to have, like, a breakdown. And I didn't want to have it. This mental breakdown, it was waiting.
I just wanted to cry and be like, this was the shittiest thing ever. I don't know why it happened. I just wanted to soak in my feelings and to be by myself. And I didn't want anybody to tell me that it was okay anymore. Because I'm tired of everybody telling me it's okay. It's okay to you. It's not okay to me. What happened was not okay. Like, so that, that was that. So when did you break down?
I just wanted to cry and be like, this was the shittiest thing ever. I don't know why it happened. I just wanted to soak in my feelings and to be by myself. And I didn't want anybody to tell me that it was okay anymore. Because I'm tired of everybody telling me it's okay. It's okay to you. It's not okay to me. What happened was not okay. Like, so that, that was that. So when did you break down?
I just wanted to cry and be like, this was the shittiest thing ever. I don't know why it happened. I just wanted to soak in my feelings and to be by myself. And I didn't want anybody to tell me that it was okay anymore. Because I'm tired of everybody telling me it's okay. It's okay to you. It's not okay to me. What happened was not okay. Like, so that, that was that. So when did you break down?
Probably when I had to unpack that suitcase. And then I went on tour and I was hosting my own tour across America, gold over America, which was absolutely amazing. The fans, the kids, beautiful. We put together an amazing production. But like, even before some of those shows, I had therapy. Say my, I can't recall what time our show started, but say it started at seven.
Probably when I had to unpack that suitcase. And then I went on tour and I was hosting my own tour across America, gold over America, which was absolutely amazing. The fans, the kids, beautiful. We put together an amazing production. But like, even before some of those shows, I had therapy. Say my, I can't recall what time our show started, but say it started at seven.
Probably when I had to unpack that suitcase. And then I went on tour and I was hosting my own tour across America, gold over America, which was absolutely amazing. The fans, the kids, beautiful. We put together an amazing production. But like, even before some of those shows, I had therapy. Say my, I can't recall what time our show started, but say it started at seven.
I would be on therapy from like, 4.30 to 6. And then I would give myself an hour to get ready and some days Jordan would come in my room because I had my own room. I'd be bawling my eyes out trying to put on my makeup because I'm talking to my therapist. about the Olympic experience, put on my face, woo, hi, Gold River America, love to see you. Like crazy.
I would be on therapy from like, 4.30 to 6. And then I would give myself an hour to get ready and some days Jordan would come in my room because I had my own room. I'd be bawling my eyes out trying to put on my makeup because I'm talking to my therapist. about the Olympic experience, put on my face, woo, hi, Gold River America, love to see you. Like crazy.
I would be on therapy from like, 4.30 to 6. And then I would give myself an hour to get ready and some days Jordan would come in my room because I had my own room. I'd be bawling my eyes out trying to put on my makeup because I'm talking to my therapist. about the Olympic experience, put on my face, woo, hi, Gold River America, love to see you. Like crazy.
And I was just kind of like, well, yeah, aren't you? Where'd you come from? I was like so confused.
And I was just kind of like, well, yeah, aren't you? Where'd you come from? I was like so confused.
And I was just kind of like, well, yeah, aren't you? Where'd you come from? I was like so confused.
It was fun and I will cherish every stop and every show that we got to put on. Totally. But it was just like behind the scenes, just nobody knew.
It was fun and I will cherish every stop and every show that we got to put on. Totally. But it was just like behind the scenes, just nobody knew.
It was fun and I will cherish every stop and every show that we got to put on. Totally. But it was just like behind the scenes, just nobody knew.
For me, since, again, it was a new therapist.
For me, since, again, it was a new therapist.
For me, since, again, it was a new therapist.
It was a new therapist, and every time I'm with a new therapist, it feels a little bit uncomfortable. So I like to start by saying, like, hey, I'm like an onion. Let's peel the layers. Like, I'm an open book anywhere else, but with trauma, it has to be by layers because, listen, I still have to put on face. I still have to go do these shows. I don't, you know...
It was a new therapist, and every time I'm with a new therapist, it feels a little bit uncomfortable. So I like to start by saying, like, hey, I'm like an onion. Let's peel the layers. Like, I'm an open book anywhere else, but with trauma, it has to be by layers because, listen, I still have to put on face. I still have to go do these shows. I don't, you know...
It was a new therapist, and every time I'm with a new therapist, it feels a little bit uncomfortable. So I like to start by saying, like, hey, I'm like an onion. Let's peel the layers. Like, I'm an open book anywhere else, but with trauma, it has to be by layers because, listen, I still have to put on face. I still have to go do these shows. I don't, you know...
So it was kind of layers by layers, but like the compartmentalizing that we do as an athlete and just as a human, I know a lot of us do it was insane and I don't know how I got through it. But honestly, I think the tour helped me get out there and realize there's more to life than gymnastics. And I honestly thought
So it was kind of layers by layers, but like the compartmentalizing that we do as an athlete and just as a human, I know a lot of us do it was insane and I don't know how I got through it. But honestly, I think the tour helped me get out there and realize there's more to life than gymnastics. And I honestly thought
So it was kind of layers by layers, but like the compartmentalizing that we do as an athlete and just as a human, I know a lot of us do it was insane and I don't know how I got through it. But honestly, I think the tour helped me get out there and realize there's more to life than gymnastics. And I honestly thought
When they say the stork brings the babies, I'm like, how did you get here? I'm like, you weren't picked.
When they say the stork brings the babies, I'm like, how did you get here? I'm like, you weren't picked.
When they say the stork brings the babies, I'm like, how did you get here? I'm like, you weren't picked.
since i didn't compete at the olympics in the way that i was supposed to and that we didn't win gold i thought nobody was going to show up to my tour stops and night after night it kind of filled my cup up because all of these girls and the fans came out and i remember after a show sometimes we get to see our family but since covid
since i didn't compete at the olympics in the way that i was supposed to and that we didn't win gold i thought nobody was going to show up to my tour stops and night after night it kind of filled my cup up because all of these girls and the fans came out and i remember after a show sometimes we get to see our family but since covid
since i didn't compete at the olympics in the way that i was supposed to and that we didn't win gold i thought nobody was going to show up to my tour stops and night after night it kind of filled my cup up because all of these girls and the fans came out and i remember after a show sometimes we get to see our family but since covid
It wasn't too much family, but my family and some of the producers were at a show and we were in the back. We were eating dinner after the show and I broke down crying and I was like, I cannot believe people are still showing up. Why are they showing up? We didn't win. And that's when I realized like, holy crap.
It wasn't too much family, but my family and some of the producers were at a show and we were in the back. We were eating dinner after the show and I broke down crying and I was like, I cannot believe people are still showing up. Why are they showing up? We didn't win. And that's when I realized like, holy crap.
It wasn't too much family, but my family and some of the producers were at a show and we were in the back. We were eating dinner after the show and I broke down crying and I was like, I cannot believe people are still showing up. Why are they showing up? We didn't win. And that's when I realized like, holy crap.
Yeah. But I always thought it was because that was ingrained in my head and that's what everybody told me. That's heavy. Yeah, it was crazy. I've learned so much about myself in such different Olympic experiences that now having another Olympic year in a cycle, it's traumatizing in a way to walk into. But I feel like at this point, nothing can break me.
Yeah. But I always thought it was because that was ingrained in my head and that's what everybody told me. That's heavy. Yeah, it was crazy. I've learned so much about myself in such different Olympic experiences that now having another Olympic year in a cycle, it's traumatizing in a way to walk into. But I feel like at this point, nothing can break me.
Yeah. But I always thought it was because that was ingrained in my head and that's what everybody told me. That's heavy. Yeah, it was crazy. I've learned so much about myself in such different Olympic experiences that now having another Olympic year in a cycle, it's traumatizing in a way to walk into. But I feel like at this point, nothing can break me.
It's like I've just been through so much, so much trauma, so much healing. I'm actually excited to see what happens after this.
It's like I've just been through so much, so much trauma, so much healing. I'm actually excited to see what happens after this.
It's like I've just been through so much, so much trauma, so much healing. I'm actually excited to see what happens after this.
So like that was shocking to me.
So like that was shocking to me.
So like that was shocking to me.
That's what I wanted to do. But since we had tour, there was no way for me to really get into a gym and train like that. But I was so traumatized. So after tour, I kind of put it under the rug. That's for another time. I would go into the gym and train. Like, play around. I wouldn't say train.
That's what I wanted to do. But since we had tour, there was no way for me to really get into a gym and train like that. But I was so traumatized. So after tour, I kind of put it under the rug. That's for another time. I would go into the gym and train. Like, play around. I wouldn't say train.
That's what I wanted to do. But since we had tour, there was no way for me to really get into a gym and train like that. But I was so traumatized. So after tour, I kind of put it under the rug. That's for another time. I would go into the gym and train. Like, play around. I wouldn't say train.
I would go into the gym, go see the girls, and I would just go jump on the trampoline and do back flips, back tucks. Like, people call it back flips. That's why I'm saying back flips.
I would go into the gym, go see the girls, and I would just go jump on the trampoline and do back flips, back tucks. Like, people call it back flips. That's why I'm saying back flips.
I would go into the gym, go see the girls, and I would just go jump on the trampoline and do back flips, back tucks. Like, people call it back flips. That's why I'm saying back flips.
but I would go do back tugs. And even that felt kind of weird. Cause I'm like, well, but I hadn't done that in a year. Cause I took off a year or more. And, um, every time I went to the gym, it was kind of traumatizing. And so every time I'd flip, I just like flashbacks to Tokyo. Oh, I'm going to get lost. I'm going to get lost.
but I would go do back tugs. And even that felt kind of weird. Cause I'm like, well, but I hadn't done that in a year. Cause I took off a year or more. And, um, every time I went to the gym, it was kind of traumatizing. And so every time I'd flip, I just like flashbacks to Tokyo. Oh, I'm going to get lost. I'm going to get lost.
but I would go do back tugs. And even that felt kind of weird. Cause I'm like, well, but I hadn't done that in a year. Cause I took off a year or more. And, um, every time I went to the gym, it was kind of traumatizing. And so every time I'd flip, I just like flashbacks to Tokyo. Oh, I'm going to get lost. I'm going to get lost.
Kind of funny because, no, because I just, I'm not sure the relationship, maybe because we didn't ask either, but we knew who it was as we got older, Shannon, and that's kind of what we just addressed her as. But I knew once I got older that that's my dad's daughter. And then that's also crazy explaining to people because I'm like, my biological mom is also my dad's daughter and I call him dad.
Kind of funny because, no, because I just, I'm not sure the relationship, maybe because we didn't ask either, but we knew who it was as we got older, Shannon, and that's kind of what we just addressed her as. But I knew once I got older that that's my dad's daughter. And then that's also crazy explaining to people because I'm like, my biological mom is also my dad's daughter and I call him dad.
Kind of funny because, no, because I just, I'm not sure the relationship, maybe because we didn't ask either, but we knew who it was as we got older, Shannon, and that's kind of what we just addressed her as. But I knew once I got older that that's my dad's daughter. And then that's also crazy explaining to people because I'm like, my biological mom is also my dad's daughter and I call him dad.
And, um, Laurent would always come over and he's like, okay, go into the pit. Let's do a full. And I'm like, I'm here to see the girls. I just wanted to jump on the tramp.
And, um, Laurent would always come over and he's like, okay, go into the pit. Let's do a full. And I'm like, I'm here to see the girls. I just wanted to jump on the tramp.
And, um, Laurent would always come over and he's like, okay, go into the pit. Let's do a full. And I'm like, I'm here to see the girls. I just wanted to jump on the tramp.
He would make me twist and go back to the basics. And I wasn't even training. I literally would just come visit. And he didn't want me to have that feeling because... And before that, I would watch gymnastics on TV and the girls would be twisting and I'd be like cringing. I'd be like, oh my God, oh my God, I'm going to throw up. I can't.
He would make me twist and go back to the basics. And I wasn't even training. I literally would just come visit. And he didn't want me to have that feeling because... And before that, I would watch gymnastics on TV and the girls would be twisting and I'd be like cringing. I'd be like, oh my God, oh my God, I'm going to throw up. I can't.
He would make me twist and go back to the basics. And I wasn't even training. I literally would just come visit. And he didn't want me to have that feeling because... And before that, I would watch gymnastics on TV and the girls would be twisting and I'd be like cringing. I'd be like, oh my God, oh my God, I'm going to throw up. I can't.
Because I can't picture myself doing it because I took so much off.
Because I can't picture myself doing it because I took so much off.
Because I can't picture myself doing it because I took so much off.
I would say it wasn't even in Tokyo, unfortunately. I think it's whenever I decided to come back and train in getting over those demons because there were so many days I would come back in the gym and it was like, One step forward, five steps back. One step forward, five steps back. Because as soon as I got lost, one time, get lost, pack my bags, I'm out of there.
I would say it wasn't even in Tokyo, unfortunately. I think it's whenever I decided to come back and train in getting over those demons because there were so many days I would come back in the gym and it was like, One step forward, five steps back. One step forward, five steps back. Because as soon as I got lost, one time, get lost, pack my bags, I'm out of there.
I would say it wasn't even in Tokyo, unfortunately. I think it's whenever I decided to come back and train in getting over those demons because there were so many days I would come back in the gym and it was like, One step forward, five steps back. One step forward, five steps back. Because as soon as I got lost, one time, get lost, pack my bags, I'm out of there.
Why am I putting myself through this? Hell no. So I would literally like, I left so many times. It was frustrating for both me and Laurent because he didn't fully understand the twisties. And for a lot of the time as gymnasts, we know it happens, but it's very unspoken of. And whenever it happens, you pretend it doesn't happen.
Why am I putting myself through this? Hell no. So I would literally like, I left so many times. It was frustrating for both me and Laurent because he didn't fully understand the twisties. And for a lot of the time as gymnasts, we know it happens, but it's very unspoken of. And whenever it happens, you pretend it doesn't happen.
Why am I putting myself through this? Hell no. So I would literally like, I left so many times. It was frustrating for both me and Laurent because he didn't fully understand the twisties. And for a lot of the time as gymnasts, we know it happens, but it's very unspoken of. And whenever it happens, you pretend it doesn't happen.
Why is that? It's not a good feeling. It's dangerous. It's horrible. It's scary.
Why is that? It's not a good feeling. It's dangerous. It's horrible. It's scary.
Why is that? It's not a good feeling. It's dangerous. It's horrible. It's scary.
Yeah, and then the other girls will look at you and they feel like once you get lost, it's going to happen to them. Got it. So it feels contagious.
Yeah, and then the other girls will look at you and they feel like once you get lost, it's going to happen to them. Got it. So it feels contagious.
Yeah, and then the other girls will look at you and they feel like once you get lost, it's going to happen to them. Got it. So it feels contagious.
So whenever they were looking at me and doing it, it's so weird. And so we had to go back to the basics. And honestly, like... The whole year, whenever Laurent, last year, he told me I was competing, I was like, how can I compete? I'm not over the twisties yet. Because every time I went to bars or beam or floor, I was praying that I did the amount of twists I was supposed to.
So whenever they were looking at me and doing it, it's so weird. And so we had to go back to the basics. And honestly, like... The whole year, whenever Laurent, last year, he told me I was competing, I was like, how can I compete? I'm not over the twisties yet. Because every time I went to bars or beam or floor, I was praying that I did the amount of twists I was supposed to.
So whenever they were looking at me and doing it, it's so weird. And so we had to go back to the basics. And honestly, like... The whole year, whenever Laurent, last year, he told me I was competing, I was like, how can I compete? I'm not over the twisties yet. Because every time I went to bars or beam or floor, I was praying that I did the amount of twists I was supposed to.
Like, I was so traumatized for this experience that I'm just now feeling better. And even walking into the gym, some days I feel like I'm going to get lost. Because I know why it happened, but, like, I'm like, I hope that's the reason. Right. So... Yeah, even I'm just now feeling comfortable without, yeah. So it's crazy because like I went through world championships, everybody's like, she's back.
Like, I was so traumatized for this experience that I'm just now feeling better. And even walking into the gym, some days I feel like I'm going to get lost. Because I know why it happened, but, like, I'm like, I hope that's the reason. Right. So... Yeah, even I'm just now feeling comfortable without, yeah. So it's crazy because like I went through world championships, everybody's like, she's back.
Like, I was so traumatized for this experience that I'm just now feeling better. And even walking into the gym, some days I feel like I'm going to get lost. Because I know why it happened, but, like, I'm like, I hope that's the reason. Right. So... Yeah, even I'm just now feeling comfortable without, yeah. So it's crazy because like I went through world championships, everybody's like, she's back.
And like, if we would have had one more day of world championships, I think just mentally from convincing myself that I can do it so many times and you're fine, twisting, twisting. I think I would have just broke down and been like, I just can't like, mentally I couldn't do it anymore. Not physically, I think physically I would have been able to do it.
And like, if we would have had one more day of world championships, I think just mentally from convincing myself that I can do it so many times and you're fine, twisting, twisting. I think I would have just broke down and been like, I just can't like, mentally I couldn't do it anymore. Not physically, I think physically I would have been able to do it.
And like, if we would have had one more day of world championships, I think just mentally from convincing myself that I can do it so many times and you're fine, twisting, twisting. I think I would have just broke down and been like, I just can't like, mentally I couldn't do it anymore. Not physically, I think physically I would have been able to do it.
But if there were one more day of worlds, I wouldn't have done it.
But if there were one more day of worlds, I wouldn't have done it.
But if there were one more day of worlds, I wouldn't have done it.
It was kind of funny because the conversation didn't go how I thought it was going to go. Oh, okay. And so I think I requested a meeting or whatever with Cecile and Laurent, and we ended up at their house and brought my husband, you know, my little blankie. And I was like, okay, I want to go back to the Olympics. I want to do this.
It was kind of funny because the conversation didn't go how I thought it was going to go. Oh, okay. And so I think I requested a meeting or whatever with Cecile and Laurent, and we ended up at their house and brought my husband, you know, my little blankie. And I was like, okay, I want to go back to the Olympics. I want to do this.
It was kind of funny because the conversation didn't go how I thought it was going to go. Oh, okay. And so I think I requested a meeting or whatever with Cecile and Laurent, and we ended up at their house and brought my husband, you know, my little blankie. And I was like, okay, I want to go back to the Olympics. I want to do this.
And they're sitting across the table, and they look at me, and they're like, no. And I was like, ah! I just told you I want to go to the Olympics. Like, I want to go back to the Olympics.
And they're sitting across the table, and they look at me, and they're like, no. And I was like, ah! I just told you I want to go to the Olympics. Like, I want to go back to the Olympics.
And they're sitting across the table, and they look at me, and they're like, no. And I was like, ah! I just told you I want to go to the Olympics. Like, I want to go back to the Olympics.
And they were like, no. And I was like, what's happening? I'm like, what is going on? And they were like, no, you've set expectations for yourself for so long. Let's just go back in the gym, get in shape. And see what happens and I was like, so we're not going to the Olympics We're not training for the Olympics.
And they were like, no. And I was like, what's happening? I'm like, what is going on? And they were like, no, you've set expectations for yourself for so long. Let's just go back in the gym, get in shape. And see what happens and I was like, so we're not going to the Olympics We're not training for the Olympics.
And they were like, no. And I was like, what's happening? I'm like, what is going on? And they were like, no, you've set expectations for yourself for so long. Let's just go back in the gym, get in shape. And see what happens and I was like, so we're not going to the Olympics We're not training for the Olympics.
So it's just like, everybody's, Hella confused.
So it's just like, everybody's, Hella confused.
So it's just like, everybody's, Hella confused.
Yeah That was really weird to me because I thought they were gonna be on boards like yes We have the process laid out that it's gone and they they just said no and I was like Hmm. Do I get new coaches? What's going to happen? and I was like Oh, you're right. And he was like, let's not just think about the Olympics right now.
Yeah That was really weird to me because I thought they were gonna be on boards like yes We have the process laid out that it's gone and they they just said no and I was like Hmm. Do I get new coaches? What's going to happen? and I was like Oh, you're right. And he was like, let's not just think about the Olympics right now.
Yeah That was really weird to me because I thought they were gonna be on boards like yes We have the process laid out that it's gone and they they just said no and I was like Hmm. Do I get new coaches? What's going to happen? and I was like Oh, you're right. And he was like, let's not just think about the Olympics right now.
Let's think about maybe getting your skills back, twisting comfortably again, doing this. And I was like, oh, those things? Oh, okay, fine. Yeah. But then can we go to the Olympics? Yes. And that's kind of how we started it. And then I didn't think I was competing at Classics last year. And he was like, yeah, you're competing. Here's your Leos. Here's this. Here's that. I was like, what?
Let's think about maybe getting your skills back, twisting comfortably again, doing this. And I was like, oh, those things? Oh, okay, fine. Yeah. But then can we go to the Olympics? Yes. And that's kind of how we started it. And then I didn't think I was competing at Classics last year. And he was like, yeah, you're competing. Here's your Leos. Here's this. Here's that. I was like, what?
Let's think about maybe getting your skills back, twisting comfortably again, doing this. And I was like, oh, those things? Oh, okay, fine. Yeah. But then can we go to the Olympics? Yes. And that's kind of how we started it. And then I didn't think I was competing at Classics last year. And he was like, yeah, you're competing. Here's your Leos. Here's this. Here's that. I was like, what?
If all goes well, I'm training. Yeah.
If all goes well, I'm training. Yeah.
If all goes well, I'm training. Yeah.
I think just working on my mind and my body more than I have, or continuing to work on my body and my mind, just like I have the past year and a half, and it's worked, and so to just stay on top of that. It's exhausting, but I have to do it. It's working. I didn't think therapy was going to work, and it's working.
I think just working on my mind and my body more than I have, or continuing to work on my body and my mind, just like I have the past year and a half, and it's worked, and so to just stay on top of that. It's exhausting, but I have to do it. It's working. I didn't think therapy was going to work, and it's working.
I think just working on my mind and my body more than I have, or continuing to work on my body and my mind, just like I have the past year and a half, and it's worked, and so to just stay on top of that. It's exhausting, but I have to do it. It's working. I didn't think therapy was going to work, and it's working.
And you're not going to open up. You're not going to talk. You're not going to be vulnerable. You're not going to let those demons out. So it worked out for the better.
And you're not going to open up. You're not going to talk. You're not going to be vulnerable. You're not going to let those demons out. So it worked out for the better.
And you're not going to open up. You're not going to talk. You're not going to be vulnerable. You're not going to let those demons out. So it worked out for the better.
I would say to keep up with my therapy even on those hard days because I have dodged a couple of those sessions.
I would say to keep up with my therapy even on those hard days because I have dodged a couple of those sessions.
I would say to keep up with my therapy even on those hard days because I have dodged a couple of those sessions.
And sometimes it's like exhausting. I just feel like a record on repeat. And again, it goes back to like, I feel like I should be healed by now.
And sometimes it's like exhausting. I just feel like a record on repeat. And again, it goes back to like, I feel like I should be healed by now.
And sometimes it's like exhausting. I just feel like a record on repeat. And again, it goes back to like, I feel like I should be healed by now.
Everything, I have no idea where I would be without being adopted. Unfortunately, I might end up the same statistic that other foster kids unfortunately end up. And you know, at 18 years old, you get kicked out of a foster home. So then you're homeless. If you don't get into college and stuff, which most people don't graduate high school, you're on the street.
Everything, I have no idea where I would be without being adopted. Unfortunately, I might end up the same statistic that other foster kids unfortunately end up. And you know, at 18 years old, you get kicked out of a foster home. So then you're homeless. If you don't get into college and stuff, which most people don't graduate high school, you're on the street.
Everything, I have no idea where I would be without being adopted. Unfortunately, I might end up the same statistic that other foster kids unfortunately end up. And you know, at 18 years old, you get kicked out of a foster home. So then you're homeless. If you don't get into college and stuff, which most people don't graduate high school, you're on the street.
No, 100%. And I agree. And I think I've learned that with my therapy over the years. So I am very grateful that I'm in therapy and thankful for the resources we have because before this, like no athlete was very outspoken about doing therapy or this, that, the other, or even just getting help.
No, 100%. And I agree. And I think I've learned that with my therapy over the years. So I am very grateful that I'm in therapy and thankful for the resources we have because before this, like no athlete was very outspoken about doing therapy or this, that, the other, or even just getting help.
No, 100%. And I agree. And I think I've learned that with my therapy over the years. So I am very grateful that I'm in therapy and thankful for the resources we have because before this, like no athlete was very outspoken about doing therapy or this, that, the other, or even just getting help.
So we are in a very fortunate situation that we're able to do that and we're allowed to be vulnerable physically. with our fans and with our community. So I guess I just want to say thank you to them too, because without them, we wouldn't be able to do what we do, so.
So we are in a very fortunate situation that we're able to do that and we're allowed to be vulnerable physically. with our fans and with our community. So I guess I just want to say thank you to them too, because without them, we wouldn't be able to do what we do, so.
So we are in a very fortunate situation that we're able to do that and we're allowed to be vulnerable physically. with our fans and with our community. So I guess I just want to say thank you to them too, because without them, we wouldn't be able to do what we do, so.
I think... First of all, boys are so different from girls because we're picking the cutest backgrounds, the most aesthetically looking pictures. And I wanted him to see, I didn't want to really show that I was a gymnast, so I didn't want to put a gymnastic-y picture in there unless he had to click on my Instagram and then see I was a gymnast. So I didn't want that to be the first impression.
I think... First of all, boys are so different from girls because we're picking the cutest backgrounds, the most aesthetically looking pictures. And I wanted him to see, I didn't want to really show that I was a gymnast, so I didn't want to put a gymnastic-y picture in there unless he had to click on my Instagram and then see I was a gymnast. So I didn't want that to be the first impression.
I think... First of all, boys are so different from girls because we're picking the cutest backgrounds, the most aesthetically looking pictures. And I wanted him to see, I didn't want to really show that I was a gymnast, so I didn't want to put a gymnastic-y picture in there unless he had to click on my Instagram and then see I was a gymnast. So I didn't want that to be the first impression.
So I was like, okay, face, not that much makeup, this, that, the other. But what stood out on his profile was just like, he seemed so charismatic. He had these little dimples, you know, the light eyes. And I was like, oh, he's so cute. And I think he had his bulldog on there. I was like, he has a dog. This is so cute.
So I was like, okay, face, not that much makeup, this, that, the other. But what stood out on his profile was just like, he seemed so charismatic. He had these little dimples, you know, the light eyes. And I was like, oh, he's so cute. And I think he had his bulldog on there. I was like, he has a dog. This is so cute.
So I was like, okay, face, not that much makeup, this, that, the other. But what stood out on his profile was just like, he seemed so charismatic. He had these little dimples, you know, the light eyes. And I was like, oh, he's so cute. And I think he had his bulldog on there. I was like, he has a dog. This is so cute.
To me, if he had a dog, that meant he was responsible. I love that you think that is the first thing.
To me, if he had a dog, that meant he was responsible. I love that you think that is the first thing.
To me, if he had a dog, that meant he was responsible. I love that you think that is the first thing.
But listen, then I went to his profile and I didn't know it was his nephew. And I was like, he has a kid. Oh no. You thought he had a kid? I thought he had a kid. But then, you know, my soccer skills, our soccer skills.
But listen, then I went to his profile and I didn't know it was his nephew. And I was like, he has a kid. Oh no. You thought he had a kid? I thought he had a kid. But then, you know, my soccer skills, our soccer skills.
But listen, then I went to his profile and I didn't know it was his nephew. And I was like, he has a kid. Oh no. You thought he had a kid? I thought he had a kid. But then, you know, my soccer skills, our soccer skills.
You.
You.
You.
Actually, and this is so cliche because everybody says this, but like the first time I met him, I came home from our little date and stuff, and my friends were at my house, and I was like, I'm gonna marry him. Who says that? I don't know why I said that. I don't know what it is, but I just felt something. It just felt different. Like the energy? The energy, how well we got along.
Actually, and this is so cliche because everybody says this, but like the first time I met him, I came home from our little date and stuff, and my friends were at my house, and I was like, I'm gonna marry him. Who says that? I don't know why I said that. I don't know what it is, but I just felt something. It just felt different. Like the energy? The energy, how well we got along.
Actually, and this is so cliche because everybody says this, but like the first time I met him, I came home from our little date and stuff, and my friends were at my house, and I was like, I'm gonna marry him. Who says that? I don't know why I said that. I don't know what it is, but I just felt something. It just felt different. Like the energy? The energy, how well we got along.
So I fear for what my life would have looked like.
So I fear for what my life would have looked like.
So I fear for what my life would have looked like.
It was a COVID relationship. It was March of 2020, whenever I went over. I had to go to his apartment to meet him. It wasn't in a public setting, and we knew it didn't want to be public because we're both public figures. They just take pictures, whatever. But to go to his apartment, I was like, For a first date. But we had no other choice. Everything was really shutting down in our city.
It was a COVID relationship. It was March of 2020, whenever I went over. I had to go to his apartment to meet him. It wasn't in a public setting, and we knew it didn't want to be public because we're both public figures. They just take pictures, whatever. But to go to his apartment, I was like, For a first date. But we had no other choice. Everything was really shutting down in our city.
It was a COVID relationship. It was March of 2020, whenever I went over. I had to go to his apartment to meet him. It wasn't in a public setting, and we knew it didn't want to be public because we're both public figures. They just take pictures, whatever. But to go to his apartment, I was like, For a first date. But we had no other choice. Everything was really shutting down in our city.
Like that week, everything was starting to shut down. And so for me, I was like, let's just do a play date with the bulldogs. And he was like, because I have a bulldog too. And he was like, well, no, because then we'll be distracted by the dogs. And for me, I kind of sometimes like distractions that's away from me. So that like, if it's awkward, I'm like, oh, my dog, look at her.
Like that week, everything was starting to shut down. And so for me, I was like, let's just do a play date with the bulldogs. And he was like, because I have a bulldog too. And he was like, well, no, because then we'll be distracted by the dogs. And for me, I kind of sometimes like distractions that's away from me. So that like, if it's awkward, I'm like, oh, my dog, look at her.
Like that week, everything was starting to shut down. And so for me, I was like, let's just do a play date with the bulldogs. And he was like, because I have a bulldog too. And he was like, well, no, because then we'll be distracted by the dogs. And for me, I kind of sometimes like distractions that's away from me. So that like, if it's awkward, I'm like, oh, my dog, look at her.
The dog is sitting on the floor. Literally, so... He was like, no, not for the first date. Then we'll introduce them. And I was like, okay. But then I walked in and his dog was so excited he peed all over the floor.
The dog is sitting on the floor. Literally, so... He was like, no, not for the first date. Then we'll introduce them. And I was like, okay. But then I walked in and his dog was so excited he peed all over the floor.
The dog is sitting on the floor. Literally, so... He was like, no, not for the first date. Then we'll introduce them. And I was like, okay. But then I walked in and his dog was so excited he peed all over the floor.
What is married life like? To me, I mean, God, we were together the whole entire time. And then as soon as we get married, Green Bay's like, hey, we want to sign him. So we went from our wedding, dropped our bags, flew out the next morning, signed a Green Bay. And they were like, see you Monday, Jonathan. So as soon as we got married, it was long distance. So it was very-
What is married life like? To me, I mean, God, we were together the whole entire time. And then as soon as we get married, Green Bay's like, hey, we want to sign him. So we went from our wedding, dropped our bags, flew out the next morning, signed a Green Bay. And they were like, see you Monday, Jonathan. So as soon as we got married, it was long distance. So it was very-
What is married life like? To me, I mean, God, we were together the whole entire time. And then as soon as we get married, Green Bay's like, hey, we want to sign him. So we went from our wedding, dropped our bags, flew out the next morning, signed a Green Bay. And they were like, see you Monday, Jonathan. So as soon as we got married, it was long distance. So it was very-
different now he's back home now we're getting back into the groove of things um because we we're both on our schedules we're both athletes and i think that's what is so nice about our relationship is like we get to focus on our sports respectively and then we get to focus on each other um but it's no different we're still dating you know we're about to be four years in um so yeah married life is no different okay jonathan if you're listening yeah
different now he's back home now we're getting back into the groove of things um because we we're both on our schedules we're both athletes and i think that's what is so nice about our relationship is like we get to focus on our sports respectively and then we get to focus on each other um but it's no different we're still dating you know we're about to be four years in um so yeah married life is no different okay jonathan if you're listening yeah
different now he's back home now we're getting back into the groove of things um because we we're both on our schedules we're both athletes and i think that's what is so nice about our relationship is like we get to focus on our sports respectively and then we get to focus on each other um but it's no different we're still dating you know we're about to be four years in um so yeah married life is no different okay jonathan if you're listening yeah
I was in the room. I was sitting on the chair. You just couldn't see me on the videos. I was there for the whole entire video.
I was in the room. I was sitting on the chair. You just couldn't see me on the videos. I was there for the whole entire video.
I was in the room. I was sitting on the chair. You just couldn't see me on the videos. I was there for the whole entire video.
I was like, my man just killed that. Stop. Stop. And I'm so excited. And, like, they even panned over to me with that viral moment. And I just, like, rolled my eyes and laughed because, like... Right. But the funny thing is, is whenever I met Jonathan, we were texting that week. And I... At that point, I'm like, okay, I don't have time to waste.
I was like, my man just killed that. Stop. Stop. And I'm so excited. And, like, they even panned over to me with that viral moment. And I just, like, rolled my eyes and laughed because, like... Right. But the funny thing is, is whenever I met Jonathan, we were texting that week. And I... At that point, I'm like, okay, I don't have time to waste.
I was like, my man just killed that. Stop. Stop. And I'm so excited. And, like, they even panned over to me with that viral moment. And I just, like, rolled my eyes and laughed because, like... Right. But the funny thing is, is whenever I met Jonathan, we were texting that week. And I... At that point, I'm like, okay, I don't have time to waste.
So if we're going to meet, because if it goes over a week, you're not meeting. Like, forget this, you know. And so we met that week. But whenever I would text him anything, I'd text him. He would say, I can do that. I can do that. So he could do everything. He was a comedian. He was a dog trainer. He was the best cook out there. He was the fastest runner. He could do everything.
So if we're going to meet, because if it goes over a week, you're not meeting. Like, forget this, you know. And so we met that week. But whenever I would text him anything, I'd text him. He would say, I can do that. I can do that. So he could do everything. He was a comedian. He was a dog trainer. He was the best cook out there. He was the fastest runner. He could do everything.
So if we're going to meet, because if it goes over a week, you're not meeting. Like, forget this, you know. And so we met that week. But whenever I would text him anything, I'd text him. He would say, I can do that. I can do that. So he could do everything. He was a comedian. He was a dog trainer. He was the best cook out there. He was the fastest runner. He could do everything.
And that cracked me up about him. So I couldn't wait to meet him to be like, you're not funny. You're not a good cook.
And that cracked me up about him. So I couldn't wait to meet him to be like, you're not funny. You're not a good cook.
And that cracked me up about him. So I couldn't wait to meet him to be like, you're not funny. You're not a good cook.
Literally. So I just thought that was funny because, and I thought that was cute that he thought he was good at everything because I'm like, I'm good at gymnastics. And he's like, I'm good at everything. And so whenever he did that interview, I thought everything was okay.
Literally. So I just thought that was funny because, and I thought that was cute that he thought he was good at everything because I'm like, I'm good at gymnastics. And he's like, I'm good at everything. And so whenever he did that interview, I thought everything was okay.
Literally. So I just thought that was funny because, and I thought that was cute that he thought he was good at everything because I'm like, I'm good at gymnastics. And he's like, I'm good at everything. And so whenever he did that interview, I thought everything was okay.
And then I go on Twitter and everybody's like divorce this man. He's mean. And I'm like, he's the sweetest. He like, he praises the ground that I walk on. Like truly. I've never met a man like him. He still opens my doors. He's still. And I'm not saying that to be like, he still opens my doors because that's to be expected of men. But like, he truly goes out of his way to do anything for me today.
And then I go on Twitter and everybody's like divorce this man. He's mean. And I'm like, he's the sweetest. He like, he praises the ground that I walk on. Like truly. I've never met a man like him. He still opens my doors. He's still. And I'm not saying that to be like, he still opens my doors because that's to be expected of men. But like, he truly goes out of his way to do anything for me today.
And then I go on Twitter and everybody's like divorce this man. He's mean. And I'm like, he's the sweetest. He like, he praises the ground that I walk on. Like truly. I've never met a man like him. He still opens my doors. He's still. And I'm not saying that to be like, he still opens my doors because that's to be expected of men. But like, he truly goes out of his way to do anything for me today.
I was like, babe, I'm at the gym and I forgot my camera. Can you bring it? And I meant to bring it to this house. He brought it to the gym.
I was like, babe, I'm at the gym and I forgot my camera. Can you bring it? And I meant to bring it to this house. He brought it to the gym.
I was like, babe, I'm at the gym and I forgot my camera. Can you bring it? And I meant to bring it to this house. He brought it to the gym.
We got into gymnastics, I say we as me and my sister, from a daycare field trip. Again, I believe everything happens for a reason. And this day, we're here in Texas, if nobody knows. We're here in Texas. We were supposed to go on a field trip to the oil ranch. How country, how Texas is that? And then we wind up at the gym. And it's because it was storming that day. So they're like,
We got into gymnastics, I say we as me and my sister, from a daycare field trip. Again, I believe everything happens for a reason. And this day, we're here in Texas, if nobody knows. We're here in Texas. We were supposed to go on a field trip to the oil ranch. How country, how Texas is that? And then we wind up at the gym. And it's because it was storming that day. So they're like,
We got into gymnastics, I say we as me and my sister, from a daycare field trip. Again, I believe everything happens for a reason. And this day, we're here in Texas, if nobody knows. We're here in Texas. We were supposed to go on a field trip to the oil ranch. How country, how Texas is that? And then we wind up at the gym. And it's because it was storming that day. So they're like,
And I didn't think anything of that interview. And he never said I wasn't a catch. He said he was a catch because he is. I've never met a man like him. A lot of people that meet him are like, oh my gosh, like I want a man like that. Like Jonathan, like a lot of the girls at the gym, they love him. He's, So nice to them. He supports them. He's so sweet.
And I didn't think anything of that interview. And he never said I wasn't a catch. He said he was a catch because he is. I've never met a man like him. A lot of people that meet him are like, oh my gosh, like I want a man like that. Like Jonathan, like a lot of the girls at the gym, they love him. He's, So nice to them. He supports them. He's so sweet.
And I didn't think anything of that interview. And he never said I wasn't a catch. He said he was a catch because he is. I've never met a man like him. A lot of people that meet him are like, oh my gosh, like I want a man like that. Like Jonathan, like a lot of the girls at the gym, they love him. He's, So nice to them. He supports them. He's so sweet.
One of the girls at the gym, she's like my little sister. And we had gone to, I think we were at camp. And I always drive her to camp, so she drops her car off at my house, and she parks it in the driveway. He got her windows tinted. He was like, you can't be fishbowling out here, and got her windows tinted.
One of the girls at the gym, she's like my little sister. And we had gone to, I think we were at camp. And I always drive her to camp, so she drops her car off at my house, and she parks it in the driveway. He got her windows tinted. He was like, you can't be fishbowling out here, and got her windows tinted.
One of the girls at the gym, she's like my little sister. And we had gone to, I think we were at camp. And I always drive her to camp, so she drops her car off at my house, and she parks it in the driveway. He got her windows tinted. He was like, you can't be fishbowling out here, and got her windows tinted.
And they'll take it and run, and that's exactly what they did. Why do you think people got so upset? Because... He wasn't, first of all, that interview had nothing to do with me. It was all for him. So I think they were mad that he didn't include me in the interview. But he has to have his moments too, and I let him have it.
And they'll take it and run, and that's exactly what they did. Why do you think people got so upset? Because... He wasn't, first of all, that interview had nothing to do with me. It was all for him. So I think they were mad that he didn't include me in the interview. But he has to have his moments too, and I let him have it.
And they'll take it and run, and that's exactly what they did. Why do you think people got so upset? Because... He wasn't, first of all, that interview had nothing to do with me. It was all for him. So I think they were mad that he didn't include me in the interview. But he has to have his moments too, and I let him have it.
Whenever I go to football games, sometimes I get field passes, but I'm not like, hey, look at me, Simone Biles is here. I just want to see my man in that uniform. Give me a little kiss. Good luck out there. It's like... This is his moment. That's his interview. What was I supposed to interrupt that interview and be like, hey.
Whenever I go to football games, sometimes I get field passes, but I'm not like, hey, look at me, Simone Biles is here. I just want to see my man in that uniform. Give me a little kiss. Good luck out there. It's like... This is his moment. That's his interview. What was I supposed to interrupt that interview and be like, hey.
Whenever I go to football games, sometimes I get field passes, but I'm not like, hey, look at me, Simone Biles is here. I just want to see my man in that uniform. Give me a little kiss. Good luck out there. It's like... This is his moment. That's his interview. What was I supposed to interrupt that interview and be like, hey.
Yes. And I love to support him. So I think that they were mad that whenever they said he. Yeah. And by the way, like he said it, but. And Clark like said it so many times, like, yeah, so you're saying, so it was kind of hyped up, you know, boys, whatever, like those conversations or drinking their little tequila, whatever it is. So I think that was the thing.
Yes. And I love to support him. So I think that they were mad that whenever they said he. Yeah. And by the way, like he said it, but. And Clark like said it so many times, like, yeah, so you're saying, so it was kind of hyped up, you know, boys, whatever, like those conversations or drinking their little tequila, whatever it is. So I think that was the thing.
Yes. And I love to support him. So I think that they were mad that whenever they said he. Yeah. And by the way, like he said it, but. And Clark like said it so many times, like, yeah, so you're saying, so it was kind of hyped up, you know, boys, whatever, like those conversations or drinking their little tequila, whatever it is. So I think that was the thing.
If it was that girls moment, it's just different. That was like their fireside chat that they're outside hanging with the boys, whatever. Like there was no, there was nothing foul about it.
If it was that girls moment, it's just different. That was like their fireside chat that they're outside hanging with the boys, whatever. Like there was no, there was nothing foul about it.
If it was that girls moment, it's just different. That was like their fireside chat that they're outside hanging with the boys, whatever. Like there was no, there was nothing foul about it.
I thought it was hilarious what people were saying, divorce him, divorce him, all this crazy stuff. And he doesn't even like to say divorce. He's probably dying right now that I've said it like six times in a row.
I thought it was hilarious what people were saying, divorce him, divorce him, all this crazy stuff. And he doesn't even like to say divorce. He's probably dying right now that I've said it like six times in a row.
I thought it was hilarious what people were saying, divorce him, divorce him, all this crazy stuff. And he doesn't even like to say divorce. He's probably dying right now that I've said it like six times in a row.
Because that's, whatever. So I thought it was hilarious at first. And then they hurt my feelings. And then one night I broke down and I'm like, why are you guys talking about my husband like this? You don't know him, you don't know who he is, and if anybody's met him, they know he's the sweetest guy and will do anything for anybody.
Because that's, whatever. So I thought it was hilarious at first. And then they hurt my feelings. And then one night I broke down and I'm like, why are you guys talking about my husband like this? You don't know him, you don't know who he is, and if anybody's met him, they know he's the sweetest guy and will do anything for anybody.
Because that's, whatever. So I thought it was hilarious at first. And then they hurt my feelings. And then one night I broke down and I'm like, why are you guys talking about my husband like this? You don't know him, you don't know who he is, and if anybody's met him, they know he's the sweetest guy and will do anything for anybody.
Yes, and so that really hurt that they were talking about my husband like that. Because for me, it's like, talk about me all you want, but don't come for my family. Never.
Yes, and so that really hurt that they were talking about my husband like that. Because for me, it's like, talk about me all you want, but don't come for my family. Never.
Yes, and so that really hurt that they were talking about my husband like that. Because for me, it's like, talk about me all you want, but don't come for my family. Never.
Like, because I've been in the limelight long enough where I can brush things off, have my little pow-wow about it. You're not going to know I cried about it, but I'd be crying about some stuff. You know? But I'm also, I only cry about it because I can't clap back. Just know that. Why not? Why couldn't you?
Like, because I've been in the limelight long enough where I can brush things off, have my little pow-wow about it. You're not going to know I cried about it, but I'd be crying about some stuff. You know? But I'm also, I only cry about it because I can't clap back. Just know that. Why not? Why couldn't you?
Like, because I've been in the limelight long enough where I can brush things off, have my little pow-wow about it. You're not going to know I cried about it, but I'd be crying about some stuff. You know? But I'm also, I only cry about it because I can't clap back. Just know that. Why not? Why couldn't you?
Yeah, and it's just like classy, you know? Yeah. But, yes, because whenever I was younger, I used to have Twitter fingers too. Oh, okay. Like my agent, like, this one, can you take that down? No, no. You know, because I would go off on people because who are you to say? And so every now and then if I say something, it's like slick and clever. Right. But I can really go there.
Yeah, and it's just like classy, you know? Yeah. But, yes, because whenever I was younger, I used to have Twitter fingers too. Oh, okay. Like my agent, like, this one, can you take that down? No, no. You know, because I would go off on people because who are you to say? And so every now and then if I say something, it's like slick and clever. Right. But I can really go there.
Yeah, and it's just like classy, you know? Yeah. But, yes, because whenever I was younger, I used to have Twitter fingers too. Oh, okay. Like my agent, like, this one, can you take that down? No, no. You know, because I would go off on people because who are you to say? And so every now and then if I say something, it's like slick and clever. Right. But I can really go there.
That's an outside activity. Where are we going to take the kids? And so I feel like God was like, take the kids to the gym and see what happens. And so we end up at the gym and I see these girls. And mind you, I've never seen gymnastics in my life. They're flipping around all of the things. And me, six years old, I'm like, I could do that. Like not knowing, I just like feel like I could do that.
That's an outside activity. Where are we going to take the kids? And so I feel like God was like, take the kids to the gym and see what happens. And so we end up at the gym and I see these girls. And mind you, I've never seen gymnastics in my life. They're flipping around all of the things. And me, six years old, I'm like, I could do that. Like not knowing, I just like feel like I could do that.
That's an outside activity. Where are we going to take the kids? And so I feel like God was like, take the kids to the gym and see what happens. And so we end up at the gym and I see these girls. And mind you, I've never seen gymnastics in my life. They're flipping around all of the things. And me, six years old, I'm like, I could do that. Like not knowing, I just like feel like I could do that.
Exactly.
Exactly.
Exactly.
Well, hopefully he gets to go because that's usually like their training camp and he's working on a new contract So hopefully he'll work in his new contract at least like two days. Yeah, like even if it's like hey personal day Um, but some teams are really really nice about like if you work with their family relations Some are more family oriented than others.
Well, hopefully he gets to go because that's usually like their training camp and he's working on a new contract So hopefully he'll work in his new contract at least like two days. Yeah, like even if it's like hey personal day Um, but some teams are really really nice about like if you work with their family relations Some are more family oriented than others.
Well, hopefully he gets to go because that's usually like their training camp and he's working on a new contract So hopefully he'll work in his new contract at least like two days. Yeah, like even if it's like hey personal day Um, but some teams are really really nice about like if you work with their family relations Some are more family oriented than others.
So fingers crossed we'll get to see him in the stand. So I'm excited for him to see that um One, I'm excited to see him to see the Olympics because football's not in the Olympics. And he always says it's like the hardest sport. It's universal. And I'm like, so why isn't it in the Olympics if not every country does it?
So fingers crossed we'll get to see him in the stand. So I'm excited for him to see that um One, I'm excited to see him to see the Olympics because football's not in the Olympics. And he always says it's like the hardest sport. It's universal. And I'm like, so why isn't it in the Olympics if not every country does it?
So fingers crossed we'll get to see him in the stand. So I'm excited for him to see that um One, I'm excited to see him to see the Olympics because football's not in the Olympics. And he always says it's like the hardest sport. It's universal. And I'm like, so why isn't it in the Olympics if not every country does it?
But no, just to see that spirit. And I'm at Paris. I think they'll do a beautiful job. And he doesn't travel overseas too, too much. The first time he went overseas was like when I think he was on the Texans and they went to London. Like he had to get a passport. He never had a passport before.
But no, just to see that spirit. And I'm at Paris. I think they'll do a beautiful job. And he doesn't travel overseas too, too much. The first time he went overseas was like when I think he was on the Texans and they went to London. Like he had to get a passport. He never had a passport before.
But no, just to see that spirit. And I'm at Paris. I think they'll do a beautiful job. And he doesn't travel overseas too, too much. The first time he went overseas was like when I think he was on the Texans and they went to London. Like he had to get a passport. He never had a passport before.
To be an advocate for anything that I've been outspoken about, mental health, foster care, ADHD, whatever that is. But also just someone that gave it her all, never gave up, but also had fun and enjoyed her career. Because I think a lot of times athletes might look back at their career and be like, I wish I had more fun or I wish I did this differently. But I'm kind of at that age.
To be an advocate for anything that I've been outspoken about, mental health, foster care, ADHD, whatever that is. But also just someone that gave it her all, never gave up, but also had fun and enjoyed her career. Because I think a lot of times athletes might look back at their career and be like, I wish I had more fun or I wish I did this differently. But I'm kind of at that age.
To be an advocate for anything that I've been outspoken about, mental health, foster care, ADHD, whatever that is. But also just someone that gave it her all, never gave up, but also had fun and enjoyed her career. Because I think a lot of times athletes might look back at their career and be like, I wish I had more fun or I wish I did this differently. But I'm kind of at that age.
Where I've been, I don't really have any more regrets. Because I'm a little bit older, I'm more mature. Everything I've done has kind of been on like my time. So I don't have regrets.
Where I've been, I don't really have any more regrets. Because I'm a little bit older, I'm more mature. Everything I've done has kind of been on like my time. So I don't have regrets.
Where I've been, I don't really have any more regrets. Because I'm a little bit older, I'm more mature. Everything I've done has kind of been on like my time. So I don't have regrets.
And I'm watching them, super intrigued. Somebody does something, I do something. And then the coaches look over and they're like, can you do that again? Like, What did you just do? Have you ever been to gymnastics? It's like, no, this is my first time. And I did it again. And they're looking at my like my body build.
And I'm watching them, super intrigued. Somebody does something, I do something. And then the coaches look over and they're like, can you do that again? Like, What did you just do? Have you ever been to gymnastics? It's like, no, this is my first time. And I did it again. And they're looking at my like my body build.
And I'm watching them, super intrigued. Somebody does something, I do something. And then the coaches look over and they're like, can you do that again? Like, What did you just do? Have you ever been to gymnastics? It's like, no, this is my first time. And I did it again. And they're looking at my like my body build.
And if I show you pictures whenever I was younger, like I was built like I was ripped for no reason. Just that's just how I was built. And so they were like, you've never done a sport. You your body stature is like it's made for gymnastics. And they're like, that's not normal. And so they sent a letter home and I gave it to my parents.
And if I show you pictures whenever I was younger, like I was built like I was ripped for no reason. Just that's just how I was built. And so they were like, you've never done a sport. You your body stature is like it's made for gymnastics. And they're like, that's not normal. And so they sent a letter home and I gave it to my parents.
And if I show you pictures whenever I was younger, like I was built like I was ripped for no reason. Just that's just how I was built. And so they were like, you've never done a sport. You your body stature is like it's made for gymnastics. And they're like, that's not normal. And so they sent a letter home and I gave it to my parents.
My mom saw it and she was like, okay, do you want to do the one with the four events or do you want to do tumbling and then maybe you'll go to cheerleading? And I was like, I want to do the one with the four events.
My mom saw it and she was like, okay, do you want to do the one with the four events or do you want to do tumbling and then maybe you'll go to cheerleading? And I was like, I want to do the one with the four events.
My mom saw it and she was like, okay, do you want to do the one with the four events or do you want to do tumbling and then maybe you'll go to cheerleading? And I was like, I want to do the one with the four events.
never for me everybody else always saw it and since I was always the smallest in my class the shortest I thought they would always be like oh my god she's so good she's so cute she has so much talent I just thought it was like what your grandmother does when she comes around every year like oh you look so good like I thought really that's what it was and I'm like you're just saying that because I'm so short so it took a while for me to really like lean into my talent and to
never for me everybody else always saw it and since I was always the smallest in my class the shortest I thought they would always be like oh my god she's so good she's so cute she has so much talent I just thought it was like what your grandmother does when she comes around every year like oh you look so good like I thought really that's what it was and I'm like you're just saying that because I'm so short so it took a while for me to really like lean into my talent and to
never for me everybody else always saw it and since I was always the smallest in my class the shortest I thought they would always be like oh my god she's so good she's so cute she has so much talent I just thought it was like what your grandmother does when she comes around every year like oh you look so good like I thought really that's what it was and I'm like you're just saying that because I'm so short so it took a while for me to really like lean into my talent and to
to realize, oh my gosh, I could do something or be someone. Because once I started, I did it for fun. Nobody in my family has ever done gymnastics, so they have no idea where the talent came from. My siblings were really good at track, but that's kind of it.
to realize, oh my gosh, I could do something or be someone. Because once I started, I did it for fun. Nobody in my family has ever done gymnastics, so they have no idea where the talent came from. My siblings were really good at track, but that's kind of it.
to realize, oh my gosh, I could do something or be someone. Because once I started, I did it for fun. Nobody in my family has ever done gymnastics, so they have no idea where the talent came from. My siblings were really good at track, but that's kind of it.
Short, yes, because you could always grow. So they were like, we're just waiting for her growth spurt, which I'm still waiting. I tell God, finish it when I'm done with gymnastics. So maybe we're not done yet. The doctor probably thinks my growth plates are closed, but that's a different story. I love it. You're like, it's going to happen. But other than that...
Short, yes, because you could always grow. So they were like, we're just waiting for her growth spurt, which I'm still waiting. I tell God, finish it when I'm done with gymnastics. So maybe we're not done yet. The doctor probably thinks my growth plates are closed, but that's a different story. I love it. You're like, it's going to happen. But other than that...
Short, yes, because you could always grow. So they were like, we're just waiting for her growth spurt, which I'm still waiting. I tell God, finish it when I'm done with gymnastics. So maybe we're not done yet. The doctor probably thinks my growth plates are closed, but that's a different story. I love it. You're like, it's going to happen. But other than that...
They all saw it, they would say, like, they gave me this nickname, Soldier, because my muscles and all of this stuff. And so, like, one time I beat this kid up on the playground because he said, oh, I bet you can't beat me up. And I was always the kid that, if you said I couldn't do something, I'm doing it. And I think I'm still that way, like, I'm doing it.
They all saw it, they would say, like, they gave me this nickname, Soldier, because my muscles and all of this stuff. And so, like, one time I beat this kid up on the playground because he said, oh, I bet you can't beat me up. And I was always the kid that, if you said I couldn't do something, I'm doing it. And I think I'm still that way, like, I'm doing it.
They all saw it, they would say, like, they gave me this nickname, Soldier, because my muscles and all of this stuff. And so, like, one time I beat this kid up on the playground because he said, oh, I bet you can't beat me up. And I was always the kid that, if you said I couldn't do something, I'm doing it. And I think I'm still that way, like, I'm doing it.
I don't know. But if I had to pinpoint, my parents were very hard workers. Me and my sister were pretty much always on top of our schoolwork. And we were just kind of self-driven. And I don't know where it came from, but I think it started from my parents just saying how hard they work, everything that they've done for us, for our siblings.
I don't know. But if I had to pinpoint, my parents were very hard workers. Me and my sister were pretty much always on top of our schoolwork. And we were just kind of self-driven. And I don't know where it came from, but I think it started from my parents just saying how hard they work, everything that they've done for us, for our siblings.
I don't know. But if I had to pinpoint, my parents were very hard workers. Me and my sister were pretty much always on top of our schoolwork. And we were just kind of self-driven. And I don't know where it came from, but I think it started from my parents just saying how hard they work, everything that they've done for us, for our siblings.
It's kind of something that was a little bit taught in that nature too.
It's kind of something that was a little bit taught in that nature too.
It's kind of something that was a little bit taught in that nature too.
Probably the whole family started making sacrifices when my practices started going late and then dinner time started to change or they would have to leave stuff in the oven or on the stove and they were like, okay, she's really doing this. But none of us knew how far it was going to take us and to end up where we are. We just kind of thought like, oh, she's doing these flips. She likes it.
Probably the whole family started making sacrifices when my practices started going late and then dinner time started to change or they would have to leave stuff in the oven or on the stove and they were like, okay, she's really doing this. But none of us knew how far it was going to take us and to end up where we are. We just kind of thought like, oh, she's doing these flips. She likes it.
Probably the whole family started making sacrifices when my practices started going late and then dinner time started to change or they would have to leave stuff in the oven or on the stove and they were like, okay, she's really doing this. But none of us knew how far it was going to take us and to end up where we are. We just kind of thought like, oh, she's doing these flips. She likes it.
She enjoys it. As long as she's having a good time, we're going to let her continue because my parents were always the first to say If you want to quit, let us know. We'll pull you out.
She enjoys it. As long as she's having a good time, we're going to let her continue because my parents were always the first to say If you want to quit, let us know. We'll pull you out.
She enjoys it. As long as she's having a good time, we're going to let her continue because my parents were always the first to say If you want to quit, let us know. We'll pull you out.
None. The first time I danced with a boy was on Dancing with the Stars with Sasha, and it was after the Olympics. I was, like, 19 years old. I remember he, like, got in my face, grabbed me, and I was like, like, freaking out. Simone. No.
None. The first time I danced with a boy was on Dancing with the Stars with Sasha, and it was after the Olympics. I was, like, 19 years old. I remember he, like, got in my face, grabbed me, and I was like, like, freaking out. Simone. No.
None. The first time I danced with a boy was on Dancing with the Stars with Sasha, and it was after the Olympics. I was, like, 19 years old. I remember he, like, got in my face, grabbed me, and I was like, like, freaking out. Simone. No.
Some, but then at that time we had moved like 40 minutes away. So if we ever wanted to have a sleepover, it was more like your mom drops us off, your dad brings her because like the distance. So other than that, we'd have some best friends come sleep over. But then it was kind of like, okay, if you stay around Friday, you're not leaving till Sunday.
Some, but then at that time we had moved like 40 minutes away. So if we ever wanted to have a sleepover, it was more like your mom drops us off, your dad brings her because like the distance. So other than that, we'd have some best friends come sleep over. But then it was kind of like, okay, if you stay around Friday, you're not leaving till Sunday.
Some, but then at that time we had moved like 40 minutes away. So if we ever wanted to have a sleepover, it was more like your mom drops us off, your dad brings her because like the distance. So other than that, we'd have some best friends come sleep over. But then it was kind of like, okay, if you stay around Friday, you're not leaving till Sunday.
So we had sleepovers, but then again, it started turning into, sorry, I have practice on Saturday. So then go to the gym, we'll drop you off. That sort of thing. It's like your life revolved around it. Yeah. Everything revolved around gymnastics.
So we had sleepovers, but then again, it started turning into, sorry, I have practice on Saturday. So then go to the gym, we'll drop you off. That sort of thing. It's like your life revolved around it. Yeah. Everything revolved around gymnastics.
So we had sleepovers, but then again, it started turning into, sorry, I have practice on Saturday. So then go to the gym, we'll drop you off. That sort of thing. It's like your life revolved around it. Yeah. Everything revolved around gymnastics.
I think in middle school, that's when the insecurities started and I kind of... became a shell of myself, but I feel like nobody really understood why I was like racing to my locker to get my gym equipment. And then like at the time our housekeeper would take me to practice and all of this stuff. So nothing I did at that point was relatable.
I think in middle school, that's when the insecurities started and I kind of... became a shell of myself, but I feel like nobody really understood why I was like racing to my locker to get my gym equipment. And then like at the time our housekeeper would take me to practice and all of this stuff. So nothing I did at that point was relatable.
I think in middle school, that's when the insecurities started and I kind of... became a shell of myself, but I feel like nobody really understood why I was like racing to my locker to get my gym equipment. And then like at the time our housekeeper would take me to practice and all of this stuff. So nothing I did at that point was relatable.
And it was very hard to not make friends, but to just keep them up because I couldn't hang out with them on the weekends. I couldn't go to Friday night live. I couldn't do anything on the weekends. I was going to a gymnastics meet. I was doing this, that, the other. So to me, it was like, let me get my schoolwork done.
And it was very hard to not make friends, but to just keep them up because I couldn't hang out with them on the weekends. I couldn't go to Friday night live. I couldn't do anything on the weekends. I was going to a gymnastics meet. I was doing this, that, the other. So to me, it was like, let me get my schoolwork done.
And it was very hard to not make friends, but to just keep them up because I couldn't hang out with them on the weekends. I couldn't go to Friday night live. I couldn't do anything on the weekends. I was going to a gymnastics meet. I was doing this, that, the other. So to me, it was like, let me get my schoolwork done.
I have like three friends, like at the loser table, like, and I'll do my stuff at the gym. And yeah, it was really hard to relate because they're doing who knows what.
I have like three friends, like at the loser table, like, and I'll do my stuff at the gym. And yeah, it was really hard to relate because they're doing who knows what.
I have like three friends, like at the loser table, like, and I'll do my stuff at the gym. And yeah, it was really hard to relate because they're doing who knows what.
At that point, no, because I still love to do it. And I had all my friends at the gym and that's kind of all I needed at that point. But going into high school, I was like mad at my parents. Like, mad as hell, like, you figure it out why I can't do school and gym. Like, you figure it out. Like, some of my friends could do it because their states allowed that.
At that point, no, because I still love to do it. And I had all my friends at the gym and that's kind of all I needed at that point. But going into high school, I was like mad at my parents. Like, mad as hell, like, you figure it out why I can't do school and gym. Like, you figure it out. Like, some of my friends could do it because their states allowed that.
At that point, no, because I still love to do it. And I had all my friends at the gym and that's kind of all I needed at that point. But going into high school, I was like mad at my parents. Like, mad as hell, like, you figure it out why I can't do school and gym. Like, you figure it out. Like, some of my friends could do it because their states allowed that.
And that's at the time I started doing national team camps. And we missed so much school. So I didn't have a choice. But, like, California, as long as you did your schoolwork, and I can't speak on the rules of the laws now, but it's just how it was back then. They could miss however, as long as they got their schoolwork done out of it. But Texas law states you can only miss
And that's at the time I started doing national team camps. And we missed so much school. So I didn't have a choice. But, like, California, as long as you did your schoolwork, and I can't speak on the rules of the laws now, but it's just how it was back then. They could miss however, as long as they got their schoolwork done out of it. But Texas law states you can only miss
And that's at the time I started doing national team camps. And we missed so much school. So I didn't have a choice. But, like, California, as long as you did your schoolwork, and I can't speak on the rules of the laws now, but it's just how it was back then. They could miss however, as long as they got their schoolwork done out of it. But Texas law states you can only miss
X amount before they fail you, even if you do your schoolwork. So that just wasn't an option for us. And it's not like we were ever going to move or do anything because like Texas has kind of the best gymnastics and that's what it was. But I wanted to go to the football games. I wanted to go to the school dances. I wanted to, but it was okay that I didn't because I knew I wasn't
X amount before they fail you, even if you do your schoolwork. So that just wasn't an option for us. And it's not like we were ever going to move or do anything because like Texas has kind of the best gymnastics and that's what it was. But I wanted to go to the football games. I wanted to go to the school dances. I wanted to, but it was okay that I didn't because I knew I wasn't
X amount before they fail you, even if you do your schoolwork. So that just wasn't an option for us. And it's not like we were ever going to move or do anything because like Texas has kind of the best gymnastics and that's what it was. But I wanted to go to the football games. I wanted to go to the school dances. I wanted to, but it was okay that I didn't because I knew I wasn't
confident enough in my body to show my muscles. Cause at that time I wore a lot of hoodies and I didn't want my muscles to show because then at that point I'm stronger than all the boys because they haven't, they haven't bulked up yet. And I'm just like, Hey, nobody really understood. So it was okay.
confident enough in my body to show my muscles. Cause at that time I wore a lot of hoodies and I didn't want my muscles to show because then at that point I'm stronger than all the boys because they haven't, they haven't bulked up yet. And I'm just like, Hey, nobody really understood. So it was okay.
confident enough in my body to show my muscles. Cause at that time I wore a lot of hoodies and I didn't want my muscles to show because then at that point I'm stronger than all the boys because they haven't, they haven't bulked up yet. And I'm just like, Hey, nobody really understood. So it was okay.
And everybody had muscles and we all looked the same. I do remember one of my friends snuck me into high school one day and I got to go around with her to each class and I thought that was the best day ever. I was like, I'm in a high school. And her teachers just played along with it. They were like, if the principal catches us, who knows what we'll do.
And everybody had muscles and we all looked the same. I do remember one of my friends snuck me into high school one day and I got to go around with her to each class and I thought that was the best day ever. I was like, I'm in a high school. And her teachers just played along with it. They were like, if the principal catches us, who knows what we'll do.
And everybody had muscles and we all looked the same. I do remember one of my friends snuck me into high school one day and I got to go around with her to each class and I thought that was the best day ever. I was like, I'm in a high school. And her teachers just played along with it. They were like, if the principal catches us, who knows what we'll do.
But I did a whole entire day with her and that was so cool.
But I did a whole entire day with her and that was so cool.
But I did a whole entire day with her and that was so cool.