Simone Biles undecided on 2028 Olympic return after Laureus Sportswoman of the Year win

Simone Biles, fresh off a Laureus Sportswoman of the Year win, reflects on her future and the possibility of returning for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Simone Biles speaks at the Winners Press Conference during the Laureus World Sports Awards Madrid 2025 at Galería de Cristal in Madrid, Spain, on April 21, 2025. Photo by Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Simone Biles, widely regarded as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, has yet to decide whether she will compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, despite being honored as the Sportswoman of the Year at the prestigious Laureus World Sports Awards. The 28-year-old American star, who boasts seven Olympic medals and a reputation for redefining gymnastics, acknowledged the challenges of preparing for another Olympic cycle while savoring her current time away from intense competition.

Speaking at the awards ceremony held in Madrid on Monday, Biles was reflective and honest about her athletic future. After a triumphant comeback at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she claimed three gold medals following a lengthy mental health hiatus, many anticipated her eventual appearance on home soil in 2028. Yet, the gymnastics icon tempered expectations.

“I’m really enjoying my time off before I decide if I want to go back to the gym and compete,” Biles told reporters. “A lot of people think it’s just a one-year commitment, but it truly is the four years leading up to the Olympics.”

While she acknowledged the excitement of potentially performing in front of a home crowd in Los Angeles, Biles emphasized that her presence at the Games, if not as a competitor, would still be felt.

“It’s in LA, it’s back in the States, which is so exciting,” she added. “But if I’m going to compete again, I’m not so sure. But I will be at the Olympics, whether it’s on the floor or in the stands.”

Laureus recognition highlights Biles’ dominance and influence

Simone Biles’ Sportswoman of the Year award adds yet another accolade to her storied career. The Laureus Award, often described as one of the highest honors in global sports, reflects not only athletic success but also personal impact and resilience. Biles' journey, particularly her public openness about mental health struggles and her ability to return stronger, has resonated with athletes and fans worldwide.

The gymnast previously stepped back from several events at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, citing mental health concerns and the phenomenon known in the gymnastics world as "the twisties." Her decision was met with both support and scrutiny but ultimately helped spark broader conversations around athlete wellbeing. Her Paris 2024 return, therefore, was more than a comeback—it was a cultural moment.

Duplantis named Sportsman of the Year amid strong competition

While Biles captured the spotlight on the women’s side, Swedish pole vaulter Armand Duplantis earned the title of Laureus Sportsman of the Year. At just 25, Duplantis has firmly established himself as a dominant force in athletics, holding the world record in pole vault and winning back-to-back Olympic gold medals.

Duplantis triumphed in a field packed with elite competitors, including tennis legend Novak Djokovic, reigning Formula One champion Max Verstappen, and France’s swimming prodigy Léon Marchand.

“The Laureus Awards are the ultimate awards that we athletes want to win,” Duplantis said in his acceptance speech. “I know because this is the fourth time I’ve been nominated—and that proves it’s harder to win a Laureus than an Olympic gold medal.”

His award marks a rare recognition for track and field athletes, following in the footsteps of sprinting legend Usain Bolt, a four-time Laureus Sportsman of the Year winner.

Rebeca Andrade honored for comeback, Lamine Yamal shines as breakthrough star

Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade also made headlines at the ceremony, winning the Comeback of the Year award. Andrade, who has faced numerous injuries in her career, dazzled at the Paris 2024 Olympics by securing a gold medal in the floor exercise. Her resilience and artistry have drawn comparisons to icons like Biles and further highlighted gymnastics as a sport where perseverance often defines champions.

Another rising star recognized at the Laureus Awards was Spain’s Lamine Yamal. The Barcelona forward, just 17 years old, was named Breakthrough of the Year after a sensational debut season for both club and country. Yamal was instrumental in Spain’s triumph at Euro 2024 and is now seen as the future of Spanish football.

Real Madrid and Rafael Nadal represent Spanish dominance in sport

Real Madrid, fresh off a record-extending 15th UEFA Champions League title and another La Liga crown, secured the Team of the Year award. Their combination of youthful talent and veteran leadership continues to set the benchmark in European football.

Meanwhile, Spanish tennis icon Rafael Nadal, who retired in November 2024 at age 38, was honored with the Sports Icon award. Nadal’s career includes 22 Grand Slam titles and an indelible mark on global tennis. His humility, consistency, and passion have inspired generations of players and fans alike.

Surfing legend Kelly Slater was also recognized with a Lifetime Achievement award, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest athletes in the history of action sports.

Future uncertain, but Biles remains a defining figure

Whether or not Simone Biles returns to competition in 2028, her legacy is secure. Her blend of athletic brilliance and candid vulnerability has redefined what it means to be a champion in the modern age. By winning the Laureus Sportswoman of the Year award, she not only celebrates her personal journey but also continues to inspire millions around the world.

For now, Biles appears content to take each day as it comes.

“There’s so much more to life than just gymnastics,” she said. “And I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved, whether I compete again or not.”

Still, fans and analysts alike will keep a watchful eye on her next move, hoping to see the queen of gymnastics make one final appearance on the Olympic stage—this time, at home in Los Angeles. Until then, her influence endures.