Updated Jul 28, 2021 - Sports

Simone Biles withdraws from Olympic all-around gymnastics final

Rebecca Falconer

Simone Biles gets ready to compete in the uneven bars event of the artistic gymnastics women's qualification during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Ariake Gymnastics Centre in Tokyo on July 25. Photo: Loic Venance/AFP via Getty Images

U.S. gymnastics great Simone Biles won't defend her Olympic title in the upcoming all-around final as she continues to focus on her mental health, USA Gymnastics announced Wednesday.

Driving the news: The 24-year-old four-time Olympic gold medalist's decision comes after she pulled out of the women's gymnastics team finals on Tuesday, saying she didn't want to jeopardize her health and well-being. USA Gymnastics said in a statement it applauded Biles' "bravery in prioritizing her well-being."

"Her courage shows, yet again, why she is a role model for so many."

— Team USA

The big picture: Biles was due to compete in the all-around final on Thursday. U.S. teammate Jade Carey will take her place, according to USA Gymnastics' statement.

Biles also qualified for all four of next week's individual event finals. She "will continue to be evaluated daily to determine whether or not to participate in next week's event finals," Team USA said.

Editor's note: This article has been updated with new details throughout.

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Simone Biles withdraws from Olympic all-around gymnastics final

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