Simone Biles Considers 2028 Olympic Comeback Amid Gymnastics Future Uncertainty

Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history with 11 Olympic and 30 World Championship medals, recently reflected on her career and hinted that her gymnastics story may not be over despite taking time off after the 2024 Paris Olympics. She expressed contentment with resting both mentally and physically, enjoying being a spectator rather than a competitor for now, but left open the possibility of returning for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Biles has been traveling extensively during her hiatus, drawing playful commentary from friends like tennis star Serena Williams, while the gymnastics community looks to emerging talents to fill the competitive void. Her presence continues to be a major draw for gymnastics viewership; NBC reported record ratings during the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials, largely attributed to Biles' popularity. However, her potential retirement after Paris raises uncertainty about the sport's future audience engagement and NBC's eight-year media rights deal through 2032, which depends heavily on Biles' continued participation or a successor who can maintain public interest. USA Gymnastics and NBC face challenges in sustaining gymnastics' prominence in the post-Biles era, as no current gymnast matches her magnetic appeal.