I LOVE GYMNASTICS EVEN MORE NOW

Three years ago, Simone Biles was heralded as the star of the Tokyo Games.

- CÉLINE NONY

Medals and records were predicted. But her Olympic adventure was cut short. A victim of the "twisties", that uncontrollable and dangerous loss of bearings in space, the American had to withdraw from the competition to preserve her mental health. Now back at the Games, she is performing better than ever-at the time of going to print, she has made it to five finals and knows what is at stake. "It is an opportunity for redemption," she said when her selection was announced.

At 27, Simone Biles remains the star who must shine in Paris. In an interview, she opened up about what she has been through since those four Rio Olympic titles, and the conversation revealed a young woman who is fulfilled but accepts her flaws.

Q/ Do you remember the young Simone Biles making her World Championships debut in 2013?

A/ Yes, I was very bubbly, outgoing, a little hyperactive. I still needed my ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) medication, but I was also very optimistic. With one goal in mind, which was obviously to compete in the Games one day. The 2013 Worlds allowed me to start believing in myself and my gymnastics.

Q/ Then there was Rio, a masterful comeback in 2018 despite your admission of being one of the victims of sex offender Larry Nassar, the former US gymnastics team doctor. And of course Tokyo....

A/ Before Tokyo, I had a feeling. I probably knew I was going into depression. But something in me blocked it out. The pressure was enormous, there was no room for error, victories were promised, I was going to break records. It is nice to be recognised for your sporting merit. And I think everyone wants to be famous. But when that happens, you hit a wall and face an identity crisis. How did I get here? Is this really what I wanted?

Q/ What do you think of the Tokyo Games?