Olympian Dominique Dawes on Simone Biles' Exit From Olympic Event

Former Olympian Dominique Dawes offers insight after gymnast Simone Biles exited from the team gymnastics final at the Tokyo Olympics, but has hope Biles’ support system will help her in the face of massive pressure.
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[@DriveAustra]

The NBC Network should have sent Dominique Dawes overseas to cover gymnastics for the network. She is so knowledgeable and polished on camera. Wow!!!

[@ahchiu9]

This was great. One of the FEW people in the world who can actually speak to what Simone has experienced and actually has a valid and helpful opinion

[@Pinhead101]

Bitch no. Have you never competed and fulfilled a goal in your life? There are A LOT of ppl out there who just can't accept her quitting with bravery. Just No.

[@malcolmrichard9713]

Did she quit though? Can she speak to that?

[@jjchockey]

It is MUCH different then other sports. If Lebron were to compete when his body and mind are not in sync he may trip and miss some shots. When you are doing the most difficult acrobatics EVER performed by a female one small mistake can end in a lifetime of consequences! Also if Lebron was consistently missing shots a week before the finals and then gets there and is still missing shots would you call him a quitter for sitting on the bench?? No I would be happy because if he continued playing he would be jeopardizing the chances of his team winning.@@Pinhead101

[@love2learnmitchell329]

@@jjchockey . Well said John Cuccio👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@nicolekirchner9771]

@@jjchockey ...You are 💯right!

[@sonyapeach]

As far as I’m concerned no one else’s opinion really matters except for other gymnast, or athletes that are or were at her level of athleticism and the face of their sport.

[@sonyapeach]

@Noit Awl Clearly you’re not a gymnast. One situation has nothing to do with the other.

[@veevee411]

@Noit Awl looooool when you’ve done a triple double, or even “just” a double double - then we can talk. It’s always these people who think their jobs are the same as flinging their bodies in the air and twisting multiple times…… gosh wish I could have the audacity you have to think that you ACTUALLY KNOW MORE

[@TheFamousMockingbird]

Really not neven other athletes opinion matters.

[@TheFamousMockingbird]

@Noit Awl kerri strug is not a good comparison, especially since the vault attempt on the injured ankle was absolutely unessecary. The number of points from the first attempt were already enough that gold was secured. If anything its an example of what someone felt they had to do because they had no agency to their own health and body

[@chicklit8604]

@Noit Awl you nailed it, for those woke people.

[@beautyan5309]

Still beautiful now in her 40’s

[@stackbundles2663]

yea she can get the business

[@MarA-te5jc]

Black don’t crack ✌🏿

[@zzizahacallar]

Beautiful figure

[@RicardoMoralesMassin]

Excuse me 40s!?!? Jesus Christ...

[@dpcisunbreakable]

Very beautiful.

[@alexramirez9589]

What a queen ♥️ it's nice that they talked to someone that actually knows what Simone is going through

[@redshield3296]

Does that make the Russians queen colonizers? LOL!

[@michaeldailey7103]

Going through , she's a quitter !!! I feel bad for the athlete that didn't go because she went !!!!!

[@michaelkrentzin]

Much respect to Dominique Dawes!!! Her well rounded development of youngsters is really incredible. There needs to be more organizations like hers accessible to kids everywhere.

[@Jolene8]

@@patrick9440 I didn't know she was fighting a war or a live fire. Lol. You don't know how life works, obviously. When a person is worn down, they are removed from the field and given a break . Call it vacation, sick leave, time off. Veterans who were worn down were removed. It's all for safety. Simone does not owe anyone a thing. She's brought the U.S. gold many times over. One more than you have. 😉

[@shelley_northwest]

Stop the fake virtue signaling for doing what is weak.

[@BluegillGreg]

Dominique Dawes would be a real expert on this if anyone is. She also seems a very skilled communicator. She's repeated her own experience and others' experience working through physical and emotional pain and sticking with your commitment. She's not bashing Simone Biles, but she's quietly and repeatedly relating how others have dealt with tough times while staying the course. Coach Dawes seems a class act.

[@Bronxphoenixx]

She doesn’t seem like a class act. She IS a class act 💯

[@francisheperi4180]

What a load of shit!

[@KAMILLE731]

Simone doesn’t owe you or anyone else shit. Dominique Dawes has always supported Simone Biles and has said that she supports her and her decision. If you’re trying to say that Dominique thinks Simone made the wrong decision, then you’re absolutely wrong. Simone knows what’s best for herself.

[@francisheperi4180]

@@KAMILLE731 I stand by my comment.

[@BluegillGreg]

@@KAMILLE731 If you're trying to say that I tried to say something that I didn't try to say you're trying to say that I said something that I didn't say.

[@ElizaBeth-kn2ds]

Very diplomatic interview from a tough as nails competitor with lots of experience and wisdom.

[@dolphmanity]

Marta Karolyi wouldn't have allowed a quitter to make the final squad. She valued mental toughness over pure athletic ability.

[@BAH-ps4sk]

@@dolphmanity that's why most those girl they coached dealt with mental health issues in silence.. but yea praise them for what they did to those girl.. lolol pathetic

[@orion8835]

Totally. When she said “dedicating their entire childhood”, I had a sharp intake of breathe.

[@stevencoardvenice]

@@dolphmanity Lol the Karoylis would flip out if the team leader pulled that

[@aldohattonduran5227]

Defense of a quitter.. so 2021

[@jarius0301]

I'm emotional. Love and respect Dominique Dawes so much. I remember her "Moment" as if it were yesterday. So proud of her. Truth be told, I'm happy Jordan Chiles got a chance to show the world what she's got. She made the trip because she earned it. She was there when we needed her. Don't let anyone forget that. 🌹🌹🌹

[@ajimenez1719ify]

This lady was one of my absolute favorites back in the 90's !! I can remember back when I was competing as an optional gymnast (level 10) I used to always watch her on TV and tell my mom, "im going to be just like Dominique Dawes!!". (Didnt happen obviously lol!) She always looked so calm and cool but, I'm sure that wasnt always the case behind the scenes. Still though, excellent gymnast she was!!!

[@MyCofeeTime]

Now everybody in the media will talk like “experts” about the mental status of the girl. But before, they did not stop putting pressure over pressure on her back.

[@sandrasanders706]

That is the truth!

[@bobbykiefer4306]

The arena is empty.

[@Griffw06]

@@bobbykiefer4306 so? an audience doesn’t change pressure

[@juliashireen6195]

@@Griffw06 Exactly. Bobby Kiefer is probably just an ordinary person who goes about life not being known as an athlete

[@jonathandoelander6130]

They're all vaccinated, none of them are symptomatic. They were all tested before they got on a plane. How exactly do those gigantic masks help?

[@PCinDC]

Dominique Dawes is still the, "Awesome Dawesome!" It was good to hear her perspective as a former Olympian. Prayers for #SimoneBiles🐐 💝

[@josephhhickman7085]

Fuck Simone and her attitude.

[@piscesprincess3339]

I love Dominique Dawes so much! She was always one of my favorites. Going to the Olympics 3 times is something only a few people can say they have done. IMO she is one of the greatest gymnasts of all time!

[@corazoncubano5372]

Her double back sequences still play in my head from time to time.

[@rogue_thinker999]

The GOAT she is not. #quitter

[@nathan-qo9rj]

@@patrick9440 those are NOT comparable at ALL😭 shut the fuck up you’re just embarrassing yourself

[@mrs.b6579]

So great to see Dominique. She was an awesome young gymnast. She never really got her just due recognition for her Olympic accomplishments. Glad she's doing well. 🇺🇸

[@beautifuljade4u]

She was my Champion when I was young. I watched her every move. It gave me hope! Her skills were one of a kind and her talent was unmatched. I still think of her to this day. Every time I see another up and coming gymnast that is the equivalent it gives me such joy. Regardless of Simone stepping away, people still understand that she is the greatest gymnast of this time period!!!!

[@Jolene8]

Dominique Dawes was one of my first Olympic hero's growing up. I'm so glad to see her back on the mat and hearing her speak with such depth. ❤😭

[@MOBROOKS]

I love Dawes. She’s a true American Hero. Dawes is a true champion.

[@BattlefieldTampaTV5]

Huh?

[@ronniejohnson196]

@@patrick9440 Like since you are none of them; Yet, you seem to know everything about the heroism of a internet troll who hides their identity while criticizing and hating on others.

[@maciedixon3983]

@@patrick9440 never been more disgusted with conservative media as a conservative. You all made me gag with your utter bullshit and ignorance

[@oceanbreeze6589]

@@ronniejohnson196 Thank you for your comment, well said!!

[@oceanbreeze6589]

@MOBROOKS- She’s a true American “SHERO”!!!

[@jeaninemorgan9118]

Happy she quit before she cracked her neck or broke her back. Good move Simone

[@E_Dubb21]

That's an interesting perspective that I hadn't thought about.

[@Galimah]

does that ring true for the reminder of the games for her? she can likewise crack her neck and break her back in the invidual competition. after this "injury" or "breakdown" it would be wise of the coaches not let her compete for the rest of the medals on the line

[@HB-ey2dk]

@@Galimah I think they're taking it day by day. The USAG said she would be evaluated daily to see if she is fit to compete. She hasn't announced if she's dropping out of the event finals and all around yet.

[@sagemoonchild333]

@@E_Dubb21 most people don’t consider that…. Especially those who think she’s selfish for pulling out. If she kept going like that, she would’ve at least stopped team USA from getting a medal at all or at most, injured herself something serious while trying to push through.

[@dolphmanity]

Marta Karolyi wouldn't have allowed a quitter to make the final squad. She valued mental toughness over pure athletic ability. Name me one time in history where a reigning Olympic champion and supposed GOAT broke their back performing a routine she's practiced literally 1000 times? Hasn't happened!

[@shaunettawilson4999]

Really listen to what she's saying, she gave up her entire childhood. She had no friends on the team just competitors. She was 19 with no boyfriend. She didn't feel like she had strong family support, she's letting everyone know it's not worth it

[@ewilliams1594]

@Bidenzz Diaper Terrible role model??!! How so? Taking care of your mental health, which a lot of adults you speak of struggle with, does not make you a terrible role model.

[@zentherapist1]

Dominique, wise words from a woman who has been there, reached the top, survived, and then shared your gifts. Simone, you carried the team and the dream. Now you’re free to decide what your next adventure will be. You need not look back. Just keep trusting yourself and the new dreams waiting to be born.

[@kaypennington4930]

Lots of wisdom there, Dominique!

[@vienicestyles6122]

I loved Simone Biles before, I love her now, and I’ll love her tomorrow. I’m a fan for life. You’re either a fan or you’re not. She Don’t Need No Sunshine Fans. 🥰

[@corazoncubano5372]

@fairy wishes Dominique is a GOAT herself. Her double back sequences were ferocious and over the years I have seen very few gymnasts make them a regular part of their routine. If you don't remember her double backs, check them out on KZbin.

[@keithsmith3840]

Sunshine fans? She quit on her team! No matter how you look at it she abandoned her teammates, and she claimed we won the silver! She didn't win anything! her teammates won the silver without her someone with the goat title never quits!

[@nathan-qo9rj]

@@keithsmith3840 she withdrew because she wasn’t in the right mindset and could’ve EASILY paralyzed herself if she didn’t land that vault the way she did. and if she kept performing the way she did on that vault she would’ve ruined their chances to qualify for a medal. and you really value a medal over simone’s LIFE?? pitiful

[@ddot9566]

@@corazoncubano5372 I remember those! I lived for it. And wasn't she the first person or one of the firsts to win the all around and win the individual on every apparatus at Nationals one year?

[@mthompson5383]

word💯

[@passionpixie8020]

The pressure is so intense. Media needs to understand that. You’re not in the rink, so you have no idea what it’s like to have you all put that pressure on these young ladies.

[@mattfoley4128]

Boo hoo. Do ya job

[@handylingua]

@Sandra - I’m glad Simone is standing up for herself. Expecting her to do otherwise for mere entertainment is BS.

[@rubberh8r]

Annnnd the arena was empty

[@murphy6424]

@fairy wishes because every criticism against her has to be racist. 🤣😂 People like you see racism in everything. Every gymnast there is under the same pressure. There is nothing special about her situation.

[@tb1235]

The media doesn't care. They make money from hyping the positive and negative so everything seems extreme. Only when the media gets called out for hurting society do they become "caring and compassionate".

[@danni1993]

I hope Simone goes home, crawls in bed with some great movies, has a good, long cry, and eats all of the chocolate cake she wants...for as long as she wants.

[@vienicestyles6122]

Me too! 😏

[@SherylCurry]

Me, too!🍩🍫🥧

[@redshield3296]

I think I’ll take your advice and do that!

[@danni1993]

@@redshield3296 It works every time!

[@jkane764]

What a kind response :)

[@randomvidz4955]

I hate that people act like a silver medal is bad that’s still a win lmfaoo

[@hollysumner5368]

It's kinda of like how no one talks about Bronze medalists. 😥 But super proud of my girls! 🥰

[@deborahbrooks7143]

I agree! They won a Silver medal and I am super proud of them. 🙂

[@randomvidz4955]

@@hollysumner5368 literally also the silver medal is so pretty no one ever talks about that

[@Akilahfoye]

@@deborahbrooks7143 which goes to show that they adapted to a difficult situation they didn't anticipate. More should be said of the girls who completed the task.

[@JennyofOldStones713]

Dominique Dawes and Shannon Miller are both so beautiful and even hotter now! They turned the clocks back!

[@jamestheradioman]

FACTS!

[@admetric]

Miller has had lots of plastic surgery. Her nose is completely different.

[@sardarnikaur6258]

Well spoken Dominique! She deserves a gold medal for her thoughts.

[@heathermarie3672]

Dominique is such a smart, talented woman! I used to love watching her compete! And I hope Simone feels better!

[@friendlytester6861]

It’s like the oxygen mask on a plane. You need to put yours on before your help others.

[@shelbyindianajones3226]

the '96 team was special and exceptional. love Dominique, she is old school where you push through hardship to get rewarded.

[@amorrbaby8354]

Pressure makes Diamonds..like Dominique said you either push threw or you don't. I grew up watching Dominique, and I remember her pushing threw an ankle injury and sticking this landing on one foot! She was and is the definition of Black girl/woman magic, strength, class, and all of that 🖤🖤

[@doctorsalas9713]

Totally agree,Dominique is also a Beautiful Great Gymnast!!!🇺🇸💕👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@nathan-qo9rj]

@Bill Latzz at least we have brain cells because what you just claimed to be a fact is an opinion! go back to elementary school bill❤️

[@lauragem796]

Dominique Dawes is strikingly beautiful. Nice to see she is doing so well.

[@tungstenfilms]

OMG i so happy to see Dominique Dawes. I remember every single one of her performance. She is the reason I watch Gymnastics today. I was her age when she fell on the floor.

[@pavelsmom1089]

I have read people say she just can't take the pressure... folks! 🤦‍♀️ Gymnastics has pressure, media pressure AND IT HAS DANGER FACTOR... which most of the other sports don't have. These gymnasts do dangerous skills at the risk of their health and lives. It is time to put limits on the danger and incorporate more dance, innovation and various skills (not just danger). The people saying Ms. Biles is a quitter, loser or snowflake are barbaric expecting her to continue to risk her life. Simon just gave the world a wake up call... good for her!!! 👍 Much respect Ms. Biles.

[@dangilmore8511]

Risking her life? It’s not Alligator wrestling! How many fatalities have there been in Olympic gymnastics? She is a highly trained athlete more than capable of performing the tasks in the competition, just like every other gymnast that turned up and didn’t drop out. I’m not saying she was wrong to drop out but let’s not make it something that it isn’t. The pressure got to her not the risk to her life ffs.

[@pavelsmom1089]

@@dangilmore8511 Ok Dan! You do a Yurchenko double piked and I'll stand by with a bucket and mop incase you land it wrong.

[@rg1whiteywins598]

Dominique Dawes was one of my favorites of all time. She seems to have gained a lot from her own experience and willing to pass it on.

[@laurenschenck5355]

So much Respect to Dominate Dawes! I love her so much and so inspiring and amazing women person and your health always comes first which MATTERS ❤️

[@asam3054]

This woman is amazing! I hope Simone has an opportunity to speak with her as she heals.

[@drewood740]

Dominique just said she was stressed at the Olympics also but still competed because it was about more than just her.

[@LifeAfterKidsjourneyunknown]

Funny how everyone heard something else? I heard we went thru the same and followed thru. That maybe that girl just isn’t mentally cut out for competition. Especially if it doesn’t go the way they wanted it to. Cause listening to her interview that’s exactly what happened “things didn’t go the way they where supposed to go” so she bailed to save face! People need to start calling shit out the way it is!!

[@Lilc97Jax]

As Simone wrote a little while ago, she didn’t quit because of pressure or a bad vault. She said she’s had plenty of bad performances and still finished competing. This is a safety thing where the mental block apparently can last for weeks and an error in flipping, especially at the difficulty level Simone competes in, could be tragic. From the same Magnificent 7 team as Dominique Dawes, Dominique Moceanu just wrote that she wishes she had the option to say no, she tried to tell them she wasn’t right and then landed on her head on the beam. And Kerri Strug (who everybody is comparing Simone to right now) says that she tried to tell them something was wrong and they wouldn’t let her forego the next vault where she broke/sprained her ankle. She didn’t even need to do it for them to get gold and says that she wouldn’t have done it if she had a choice and wishes now that she was given a choice. People don’t owe the nation pushing through toward potentially fatal results so they can cheer on their couches about a medal. There are plenty of gymnasts, even in just the last few decades, that have broken their necks/other bones, been paralyzed, and even died from “pushing through” when something wasn’t right. Dominique saying she was stressed is completely different. Simone has pushed through to win the country more medals and team wins than any other gymnast, ever, and you guys are still out here with the “she quit because of stress” crap. Learn the difference. 🙄

[@drewood740]

@@Lilc97Jax Yea I agree with what you're saying. Her inability to compete shows that she'll never be considered great. She'd be good at a much lower level of competition or maybe like an instructor or something. She probably has a wealth on knowledge to pass on.

[@vimk_dk]

Omg listening to 1 that compares that experience to what Simone must feel. Simone is not only carrying the pressure from the US but from people all over the world. She is expected to get as many metals this year as she did in Rio and people are just waiting for her to make even more history in gymnastics. E.g. even in small Denmark we hear about her, as in more or less the only 1 we hear about who is not from Denmark.

[@malcolmrichard9713]

So when you aren’t at your best, just quit on your team? She had the same pressures, if not more for the 27 Gold medals.

[@stacihilliard3761]

@@malcolmrichard9713 if not being at your best could result in you breaking your neck, it seems you are protecting your well-being vs quitting.

[@malcolmrichard9713]

@@stacihilliard3761 They all take the same risks. Seems like she quit because she wasn’t at her best and knew she couldn’t win. Probably a perfectionist. Even at a sub par level she can still land on her feet. The media’s mind control will make you believe ANYTHING!

[@stacihilliard3761]

@@malcolmrichard9713 they don't take the same risks. She lNds things no other woman gymnast ever has.

[@antiafrosvengalis]

Dominique is awesome. Great to see her and hear her perspective.

[@koisneurotypical]

Oh my gosh- Dominique Dawes is all grown up! I love her and I love her perspective. Thanks so much for this.

[@radioraffa]

She has been grown up since the late 90s. (She is 44)

[@kelb3847]

She psyched out. Happens to the best of the best. Great job and a ton of hard work.

[@johnreed9050]

Proper word is choked.

[@LoyaFrostwind]

These 6 gymnasts also are bonded together by being in the COVID-era Olympics.

[@yadiaag7771]

I’m so proud of her regardless of the fact she dropped out of the group round. She’s so awesome regardless.

[@artcreations7847]

The media in the 90s was NOTHING compared to the social media pressure now. Dominique was by far lucky to have not experienced social media pressure like Simone does. It’s a different world now. I support Simone and wish her the best! Everyone goes through mental health differently regardless how common it is or if someone else went through a similar experience. We should be more supportive whether we agree or not. It’s her right to her body to choose health first. Everyone getting upset with her we’re never fans and take sports too serious. The other girls came this far with the leading help of Simone and are great within themselves. Let’s not bash young women on the internet and be more mindful of the severity. Simone could have had anxiety building up days before and then snapped when she had her episodes it happens to every day life people, she’s human too. We shouldn’t have high expectations unless WE are the ones out there fighting for number 1. Best of luck to the team! Simone is GOAT 🐐

[@christinamitchell6796]

Love listening to Dominique, I'm so happy for all of her accomplishments and I can see she has found her growth and comfort in her own skin.

[@jreifsnyder2225]

Dominique was always one of my favorite gymnasts!!

[@MisterMcKnight]

Wow Dominique is an incredible speaker! Not a word was wasted. So thoughtful.

[@knsf02]

Dominique Dawes is a great human being. I loved her as a gymnast but moreso of the person who she is today.

[@stephaniehuff3112]

She looks beautiful now and back then

[@Kawaiicutiebaby]

Dominique is amazing and I love her insight ❤️

[@zenawilliamson2496]

Simone will always be a hero to the gymnastics world. I feel for her because I know it's difficult to go through challenging times. The girls on the gymnastics team

[@dancingoctopus9888]

I love how Simone keeps giving her team credit and keeps trying to shift attention to them.

[@phillipayoung10]

Enough said from an Olympic legend!! Period!!

[@lizakabe8116]

In other words “she let her team down and she’s selfish.” And she’s correct. She said it nicely, but we all can read through that. GOAT’s don’t give up when gold medals are at stake.

[@britneya6233]

If she had stayed and messed up the team wouldn't even have a silver. Idk why its so hard for people to see that it was the right call for the sake of the TEAM!

[@joyfuljaj]

@@britneya6233 not too mention, she could have seriously injured herself. The vault (that I wonder how many of these calling "quitter" even watched) indicated something was off. She came out of the vault early - which former gymnasts described as her seeming to get lost in the air. A gymnast who gets disoriented is ripe for injury. An experienced athlete like Simone would know how dangerous that is. Smart coaches and trainers would too.

[@hustlehardermommy9675]

I respected Prince for putting her in his Betcha by Golly Wow video when she wasn't getting much attention.

[@robertturner2770]

Nice to see that Domonique is still doing good and still fine!

[@beaubeauregard7577]

And Dominique did not quit. She fought and won.

[@crystalebarnicle9628]

And quietly sat by while her team mate ended her career by being forced to vault on a broken ankle.

[@emilyellis4860]

@@crystalebarnicle9628 Really??? You are blaming Dominique for what now? You do know that she was just another gymnist on the team and not a coach right. Therefore, she was not in a position of authority. Defend Simone all you want to, but don't hate on Ms Dawes for speaking her truth.

[@sophiamckenzie5173]

Simone is a great gymnist I'm glad she's smart enough to put herself first. Domonique said something about she went through a similar situation and she had to realize it's not about her (but she's not simone ) I hope simone recovers soon all the best to her 🇯🇲

[@donnareeweeks6180]

Keyword HERSELF !

[@nathan-qo9rj]

@@donnareeweeks6180 so you value a simple medal over simone’s life?? she could’ve EASILY paralyzed herself on that vault if she didn’t land it the way she did

[@FleagleSangria]

Dawes "I got down my knees and prayed and got back up to go do what I needed to do realizing its not just me" There you Simone. Thats championship mentality.

[@cy_lanix130]

It doesn't work for everyone. If she would have went out there and competed, she might have did something crazy and injured herself for real. That is why mental health is so important.

[@beckyclawson2245]

@@cy_lanix130 it is, but it also shows she lacks the mentality that Dominique had.

[@beckyclawson2245]

@@cy_lanix130 it is, but it also shows she lacks the mentality that Dominique had.

[@cy_lanix130]

@@beckyclawson2245 yea Dominique had such a strong mentality. I just feel bad for simone because everyone is just straight bashing her.

[@LifeAfterKidsjourneyunknown]

Danggg she basically said it without saying it.... she went thru those things and still followed thru. That was a different time back then, EXACTLY!! Everyone is all about their “feelings” instead of taking responsibility for what your their for. Biles basically had a fit cause things weren’t working out the way she wanted... so she quit! Plain and simple! She took someone else’s spot who would have loved and would have respected the opportunity to represent USA! It’s embarrassing and shows how weak we are as a country right now!!

[@marcusclayton1891]

The people are the ones ungrateful, quit the best in the world quit what you mean is she crushed it and now don't want to try as hard and that's her decision haters gonna hate.

[@tomarasmith4459]

Sometimes you have to put yourself 1st or nothing will be left. Lets not forget the Olympics is VERY different. Simone is in Japan alone (family is not allowed). This is the same team that allowed her and many other girls to be molestation for years. People are on social media bashing her because her brother just beat a double murder charge. Then there's talking that Japan wouldn't let her have her ADHD medication. On top of that she is old to be a gymnast. She didn't take anyone's stop because it was her spot that she earned. If she want to go home then that's what she should have done. There are days at my own job that I just have to leave or something bad will happen. Heck the Olympics doesn't even pay her to be there.

[@LifeAfterKidsjourneyunknown]

@@tomarasmith4459 lol there was a 42yr old competitor who has been competing since the 90s. These kids these days have it EASY. They actually have a life out of training. Before the kids didn’t even live at home, all they did was train. Training for the Olympics is a CHOICE. If it was easy anyone could just do it. If she molested and stayed, her choice... so don’t use that as an excuse for her quitting. Her brother had nothing to do with her quitting. ADHD has nothing to do with her quitting. If you can’t handle the pressure... then leave!! Nobody is stopping you BUT you!! She made herself look weak... she is not reliable in pressure situations.... which the Olympics is definitely that. You signed up for a job to represent the USA, so do it. That’s exactly what Dominque said, she said they had it way worse. Had a meltdown and prayed, got up and finished the competition. Like a true warrior, champion and competitor....!which is exactly what it’s about!! So you basically argued she is not mentally capable of handling the Olympics... I completely agree!! So leave!!

[@LifeAfterKidsjourneyunknown]

@@marcusclayton1891 lol this sounds so dumb 🤣🤣🤣💀 I cant!!

[@nicolebrown5987]

She's still a queen!!!! I'm a millenial and remember the term "Awesome Dawesome". Dominique is so inspiring.

[@karenhampton1111]

Heyyyyy Awesome Dawsome!!! Always love to see her and hear her speak.

[@maryfischer875]

Hopefully people understand that Simone's mental health is more important than any medal.

[@LifeAfterKidsjourneyunknown]

What you all don’t get is, EVERYONE knows the Olympics is pressure. It’s what they signed up for. Ummm it’s the Olympics helloooooo!!! Kids have been training for ever... it’s their choice!! If you never lived that lifestyle of training for your passion every day, giving up the “norm” childhood..... same as a lot of different occupations. That is what they want. That’s what they choose. Why is everyone making excuses for someone who bailed on her team and the country because she was having a bad day and things didn’t go as she planned. So she basically had a tantrum and everyone is saying it’s ok. Maybe this is what’s wrong in the world today. To many cry babies, it’s all about feelings. It’s not how you fall but it’s how you get back up. If your not allowing yourself to even fall, you will never know the feeling of getting back up and trying harder. Kids these days want things handed to them. Just like the Silver medal she has.... given to her AFTER she quit! Shameful!

[@murphy3630]

@@LifeAfterKidsjourneyunknown You are sooo correct!, goats don't quit, they lose and try again, ask Tom brady, Michael Jordan, they didn't win every game, just did their best win or lose . She called herself a goat, put goat on her uniform, then quit and everyone wants to praise her, smh. The classy thing to do was finish the Olympics as best you can, congratulate the winners, and do your best at the next Olympics , that's a goat. Also no one forces them to complete, just as no one Forces me to work, If I Quit working because I have a bad day , is anyone going to pay my bills, I work sick, tired, with headaches for my family's welfare , that makes me a goat to my family.

[@LifeAfterKidsjourneyunknown]

@@murphy3630 AMEN!!!! Wowww she actually put Goat on her uniform 💀🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 definitely NOT

[@selenatemu2161]

Great interview. Thoughtful and offered perspective of the pressure Olympic stars may experience.

[@thealchemist333]

Wow!! Absolutely love how Dominique said she is not about sacrificing a child for a slim chance at the Olympics. She is about helping to form happy, healthy emotionally well rounded humans!! That part! 🎯🎯🎯. This woman has understood the purpose of life and responsibility to her fellow humans, while many selfish individuals are criticizing Simone for taking care of her whole self instead of bringing them a gold medal. Simone and these atheletes are the gold that needs to be brought home safe and sound. God bless them all. I remember being amazed by Dominique in the 90's and oftentimes she didn't get the scores and credit she deserved. It was obvious it was because of her race. I'm glad she saw through the shallowness of society and didn't become resentful. She is still shining her light brightly.

[@simplynay232]

Dominique Dawes was my Simone Biles growing up as kid, so she is the best to speak to this. Love her!

[@donnascott7037]

Thank you Dominique for your input on this situation.

[@raulfernandezg]

everybody has to endure pressure at their job...

[@brettmckenzie1631]

Okay, this is true. But what does this have to do with the level and type of pressure Biles was facing? If ‘everybody’ runs into trouble at work there’s PTO, sick days, etc. If she proceeded having the same mental block and pushed through she could have messed up and caused herself significant harm and/or cost the team a medal altogether. Her skills literally put her body on the line every single time. These types of pressure are Apples and Cucumbers.

[@Galimah]

@@brettmckenzie1631 will she be "ok" again when individuals starts?

[@mtn0343]

Right, but I believe the average person working at their job would not have millions of people watching, critiquing, and commenting on your every move. Also the other girls have done amazing in their own right having to train even more because of the pandemic pushing the games. Simone already proved she is a great gymnast from Rio. She took time off. She knew that if she did not preform well then it will eat at her and affect her team. The rest of Team USA saw that unfold and understood she had took herself out before she kept going and seriously injure herself in either her mental or physical state, especially seeing that stumble. The media overhyped her so much and placed her on such a high pedestal that I also think contributed in her mental block, not to mention the trauma from Nassar she is likely also recovering from. Like how does someone not internally combust because of those things? We have seen her preform stunningly under pressure, but she is also just human. Much respect for Simone and I hope she’s doing everything to take care of her mental and physical health ✨

[@handylingua]

@@Galimah - Hope she *does* work through the kinks in time!

[@brettmckenzie1631]

@@Galimah I sure hope so. Mental blocks come and go. Tiger Woods missed the cut at major tournaments because his swing was off. If he was risking breaking his neck I’d hope he would step away when it was happening.

[@sharjjahnaziz4122]

Wow !!! I want to takes classes to speak like Dominique Dawes. I love her so much !!!

[@otherworld11]

We now appreciate the golds in '96, '12, '16, much more so. It ain't easy. Biles should not participate in individual, and in fact she might want to think about what comes next in her life, other than this sport.

[@heathermarie3672]

I think she should compete IF she feels up to it. She’s had so much pressure and expectations piled on to her for years. If she’s up to competing, she should go for it. If not, she shouldn’t. I’m sure she and her coach and doctor will make the right decision for her.

[@keitahentleigh7489]

...I was there to see Dominique at the Atlanta Dome... We all prayed for her... The magnificence in the air when she did her floor exercise final was unbelievable... I remember the exact moment vividly... We gave her a standing overation so long that they had to stop the other gymnast on the floor until we stopped...

[@mikeb8497]

i had a huge crush on dawes and her curl back in the 90's. her and jada p was my girls

[@MOBROOKS]

Dawes and Jada huh, You definitely have a specific type. Hahahahaha They could pass for sisters.

[@luchacefox259]

Dude I'm 36 and same story. I had a crush on black girls for years after that.... till I dated one lol.

[@mikeb8497]

@@MOBROOKS i know bro its weird tho. some of my brothers would be like halle berry mariah carrey hilary banks from fresh prince, i would be like nah they to bright lol some of my brothers would be like Janet jackson, tatyana ali, regina king i be nah they cool but ima jada pinkett, nia long , dominique, tamala jones kind of man lol

[@BluDrop5]

Lol at The Bang!

[@burdrchitect1680]

I had a crush on her as well. I'd probably pass out if I'd meet her one day. She one of the few celebrities I'd go in shock mood for, and I've met alot of celebrities due to work.

[@baukejosh]

And Dominique shows, like so many other wonderful athletes who get to the games, a wonderful sense of kindness and understanding. This is why I love the Olympics. Why I love the watching these profoundly gifted people. The best of the best.

[@clifforddang5947]

You did great Simone, you should be proud of yourself!

[@rogue_thinker999]

Kerri Strug had more heart than Vile Biles will ever have. Strug pushed through her injury to help her team win gold in the 96 Olympics.

[@JLDReactions]

Vile Biles? Oh shut up and get over it. She doesn't owe you shit.

[@BluDrop5]

She actually got injured while doing the vault.

[@me_not_me]

An ended her whole career with that injury... 🙄 people like to leave that part out of the romanticized story.

[@allysonchavez1090]

Simone's not as young as she once was. The entire world has put her on a pedestal and that's a bad thing. There's so much pressure on her and the stress is just starting to wear on her.

[@champagnesupernova4081]

Is 24 old for a gymnast?

[@lazarusakumu-jubokko7105]

@@champagnesupernova4081 yes ~ pretty much past 21, I think

[@allysonchavez1090]

Ali Raisman was considered old and she was 22.

[@greek1237]

@@champagnesupernova4081 Most are retire at 18-20ish. Very few make it to 24.

[@ItsMrstoyouboo]

Omg she was a beast in her youth I love Dominique Dawes!!!!!

[@harrisonchevy4452]

So sad that she had this problem now. Like what was said fans will never know the pressure involved with a top Olympic star 🌟 having to perform a high level.

[@josephhhickman7085]

Ummm actually yes ...some Olympians actually had lived up to the ideal...Jesse Owens...Muhammed (Cassius) Ali... and many others around this big blue marble.

[@ronniejohnson196]

@@josephhhickman7085 Seems that some forget so quickly that SB has excelled beyond compare until this one glitch in her career. Sad, very sad. Everybody loves a winner; But, when you lose you lose alone.

[@beckyy584]

@@josephhhickman7085 none of those athletes had the media attention that Simone has. Especially since the Nasser scandal and being the only survivor competing. USA Gymnastic’s team coordinator even said that the rest of the team didn’t need to upgrade their moves because of Simone. Their decades reputation was being held by a thread. There is no comparison to any athlete with what Simone has been dealing with.

[@kckillakrack9714]

@@beckyy584 no one is making any of these people do anything. They chose this and know full well what they are getting themselves into. If she was having mental health problems I m glad she is working to fix it. She could of also opened her spot to any alternate and just not competed at all

[@beckyy584]

@@kckillakrack9714 I never said anyone was being forced to compete. Simone has been having problems since the Olympic trials but has been pushing through. Besides that, based on how the team was performing, it shows that Tom Forrestor did a terrible job of getting the team ready for the competition. He even said that it isn’t worth them having upgrades because Simone already had full difficulty. That not only adds so much pressure to Simone but is disrespectful to the rest of the athletes (and would never happen under a decent coordinator). She’s already competed with broken toes and kidney stones so how can she not try to push through? It’s the Olympics after all nobody wants to be the reason for the team losing (despite them qualifying 2nd anyway). The rules state that once the athletes compete in qualifications (for the team competition), they can’t be replaced or switched out unless some type of emergency happens prior. Mind you, only alternates can replace her not individuals like Mykayla and Jade would replace her. With Kara Eaker having covid the rest of the alternated had to quarantine so their training was limited. The results would have been the same and there’s nothing wrong with saying USA was did a bad job preparing and Russia had the better meet. That vault was definitely the last straw for Simone. She was already falling during the warmups and it was too late for anyone to replace her. She was very lucky to have landed the way she did because most athletes who get lost in air get injured and can become paralyzed. Unfortunately this happened at the worst time but she can’t control her mental blocks, nobody can. The best she can do is take the weekend to calm down and hopefully be able to cope for the individual competition.

[@ddot9566]

Dominique Dawes will always be my favorite gymnast. She was the first gymnast I ever saw that looked like me beasting it out there and she continues to inspire me now. I loved her articulate take on this situation. I'm glad things are changing from how they used to be when she competed. I don't know how she did it back then but I love the support she and the rest of the gymnastic community are giving to Simone during this time. Congratulations to the Suni, Jordan, Grace, and Simone for bringing back the silver for Team USA. Congratulations to Suni for getting the gold in the individual all around. I couldn't be prouder of our ladies.

[@sebastiansanfratello1399]

This was the Olympics you dont quit she should have gave her spot to the girl who was second best to take her place. Dont wait till your in Tokyo then stop. Nobody is talking about the rest of the team. Simone can move on the other young women this may have been there only chance so instead of gold they got silver and a quiter.

[@emitadlapafi6715]

4 time gold medalist? She quit. The pressure is there for every athlete competing. Weak.

[@ayeflippum]

Her life, her business

[@wakeup6995]

The pressure is obvious. This is what they wanted. They wanted to compete at the Olympics. No one forced her to do shows or take all of the money for endorsements, nor did they force her to accept the GOAT on her leo. Lacks humility. I hope Simone is starting to realize that fame and fortune can't fulfill you. “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, but lose his soul?" -Mark 8:36” I remember seeing this coming when I saw how she spoke during interviews about how she was unbeatable. She got sucked in. Naughtiness comes before a fall.

[@RitaWil]

Amen. Haughtiness

[@Sarah-mz2ou]

Love her philosophy ❤

[@stanhutchins6592]

Bottom line is Biles is a quitter and she left her team mates. Never ever leave a team mate behind. Biles now is labeled as a quitter

[@kevinballard8771]

🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 for Simone Biles! Your fans know you will return better than ever! ❤️🌹🙌🏾

[@bobbyc6028]

people should realize that the impact of landing on a semi cushioned mat rattles the body & the brain. eventually causing deep concerns for an athletes health. jump from the roof of a pickup truck onto a lawn. do that hundreds of times.

[@angryoldirishmac5950]

A true teammate and champion. This is a hero.

[@СергейКовалев-т1д6м]

As a Russian, I do appreciate that American athletes "laugh together, smile together as a team" while the Russian squad wins together as a team.

[@BattlefieldTampaTV5]

Wow

[@passionpixie8020]

Russia with the second highest suicide rate in the world. 55.9 rate per per 100k people. They aren’t allowed to laugh.

[@keithnunya]

@@passionpixie8020 yeah...and Biles wouldn't have been allowed to quit. Damn freedom is nice.

[@crystalebarnicle9628]

Russia does not have a team...they don't know how to not dope their athletes......they are a disgrace

[@keithnunya]

@@crystalebarnicle9628 oh...the R doesn't stand for Russia in ROC? Stop being an obtuse numbnut.

[@lisacharlton1813]

Quitters are too mentally weak for the Olympics. This is ridiculous. Rather quit than lose gold. Time to retire.

[@aisalayug7331]

HEALTH IS WEALTH SIMONE BILES IS ONLY A HUMAN I RESPECT HER DECISION 🇺🇸💯❤️

[@mthompson5383]

I respect it too

[@catofninetales3125]

Thanks, Dominique Dawes! You have a great vantage point. You are one of my all-time favorites! Best wishes with your gymnastics school. I love your philosophy, looking at the whole child, rather than how that child can make it to the Olympics.

[@rightfootlefthand]

If you sign yourself up to represent team USA, and then quit midway because you're an emotional wreck, I am sorry but I don't have much respect for you no matter how special you are. I don't care that I don't understand how much pressure you are under. Clearly the US is going through a generation of quitters with excuses - and oh so proud of letting go of gold medals. This is something I hope the next generation will restore in our culture and our determination as a nation. We NEVER give up.

[@amandaallen9460]

Thats crazy..you must not understand the pressure that these women are under..have a heart..it is not easy to represent the entire country and everyone's hopes for gold..she can still possibly come out with 4 or 5 golds if she goes to all 4 individual finals+AA

[@swimgirl24]

Um WHAT. No. I have no respect for you for saying that. What dangerous, elitist mindset. The world does not revolve around you and your desire for the US to win an Olympic medal. Like wth. It’s just a medal. You can’t ask someone to destroy themselves for you. Good luck being married. Also let me guess… you didn’t get the vaccine either because the world only revolves around you and your ego. Right. Got it. 🙄

[@amandaallen9460]

@@swimgirl24 i don't care about medals this time..I actually care about the mental health of certain gymnasts

[@MissTXTee]

This comment is exactly why we have so many senseless suicides and emotional breakdowns. 😒 Damn...

[@janesevy4372]

I'd rather watch you lose than watch you quit.

[@jeaninemorgan9118]

Jane, you are an idiot. Go away

[@dnice4335]

@@jeaninemorgan9118 I agree with JANE

[@janesevy4372]

@@jeaninemorgan9118 So you would rather watch her quit than lose and you're calling me an idiot? Go back into your safe room where reality isn't allowed in.

[@Elizabeth-cr1ih]

I dont think Simone cares what you would rather she do. The thing about gymnastics that people don't seem to understand is that in most sports, competing while not in the right mindset will probably just result in a loss... in GYMNASTICS, if your mind is not where is needs to be, twisting and flipping 10ft in the air, the chances of devastating - life-threatening - injury is through the roof. So that is why your options are not lose or quit, your options are lose and risk ending your career in the process, or quit. If only people cared about gymnasts for more than 2 weeks every 4 years, you'd know that Simone has carried the team for almost 8 years, including 2018 where she competed with kidney stones on no pain relief and hit every routine. Your simple, ignorant comment is everything that is wrong with the way athletes are treated. Athletes are people too, not medals.

[@catiaazevedo6205]

She lose.

[@christopherchannelmarlo3227]

Little Dominique Dawes all grown up now . Great 👍 to see enjoyed your Olympic contributions.May God bless you going forward in life.❤️❤️❤️.

[@logantatum6227]

Y’all take one loss and blame Simone... SIMONE HAS BEEN THE US TEAM FOR THE LAST 6-8 years... how about y’all go talk to all the other us gymnast who really don’t bring anything to the table... go bother them... ☺️ maybe y’all do that and Simone wouldn’t have to carry a team on her back to win everything.. SN: IM NOT SAYING ITS A LOSS.. America will take it as a loss even though Simone has pretty much given them every gold medal you could ask for besides on bars and she even had a bronze or two there..

[@ericnieves9884]

Two words: Kerry Strug….

[@karenramos1130]

@@ericnieves9884 Kerri Strug was literally forced to compete and she was hurt badly and collapsed after the second vault, so I don't think that's a good example

[@vienicestyles6122]

That’s what I was saying! If all 4 were at her level then her absence wouldn’t have made a difference. I remember there use to be a “Dream Team” reference for Olympic competitors. What ever happened to that??

[@beckyclawson2245]

Uh Suni Lee is literally ranked second in the world. The other girls aren’t throwaways.

[@piscesprincess3339]

The US still placed 2nd without her, so I wouldn’t say we “lost”. Despite being at the Olympics and having your strongest team member walk out after the first event and still placing second best in the world clearly shows we have some amazing gymnasts representing our country. I feel SO bad for them because it seems like people aren’t even recognizing that they ARE amazing gymnasts and deserve to be celebrated right now too!

[@angeleyes3386]

The level of mental fortitude Dawes must have had at THAT YOUNG AGE to pray and get back in the game is admirable.

[@tesina21]

Dominique had an emotional and mental breakdown at the 96 games in Altanta but she knew her team needed her in order to win so she persevered and competed like a true Champion. Simone could have done the same but she chose to quit instead...such a shame.

[@cy_lanix130]

you try doing it then, if it seems so easy to do.

[@tesina21]

@@cy_lanix130 I didn't say it was easy. It's very difficult in fact. But Simone's a champion and I'm a little disappointed she didn't rise to the occasion like in the example Dominique gave.

[@mzbatonrougebeauty5267]

Ummm Dominique didnt have a team of 4...Dominique didnt have scoring changed become of how good she is. Which is fucked up. Which makes since if she was gonna put up bad scores it would be better to not put up any

[@thespadestable]

@@mzbatonrougebeauty5267 - No one changed anything. She was advised that she won't gain extra point due to the sensationalism or her performances. She was going to be scored on the consistency of her routine.

[@crystalebarnicle9628]

First off they are completely different circumstances. In 96 Dominique had 5 other scores to fall back on on each event. And NEVER in the history of her career was she the face not only USA Gymnastics but GYMNASTICS as a whole. And she didn't have the level of difficulty that Simone does. I'm not saying she didn't walk so Simone could run because she did but having 1 team gold and a few bronze and silver individuals just doesn't compare to 4 olympic gold and 19 world championship gold pressure.

[@kahnicacole5692]

GREAT INTERVIEW! Awsome Dawsome!!!!!!

[@rubberh8r]

Dominique slips in, she didn't quit because "it wasn't all about her."

[@eugenecarse4284]

Exactly team mentality.

[@MissTXTee]

How was she being selfish?? If you know you're f*ckin' up and your poor scores could jeopardize your team's chance to get a once in a lifetime medal, wouldn't you bow out too?

[@sagemoonchild333]

@@MissTXTee EXACTLY!!!! If Simone kept performing like that, she would’ve dragged the entire team down and pulled everyone out of medal contention. It could’ve been even worse, she could’ve injured herself and ended her Olympics early. Backing out was NOT a selfish move. the team event is probably the only medal that Grace and Jordan will likely receive. The only ones who have a shot at a medal are Simone and Suni. She stepped back so that they could earn a medal no matter the color.

[@rubberh8r]

@@MissTXTee what are you talking about, learn 2 pronoun

[@rubberh8r]

@@sagemoonchild333 she's a moron setting a great example for girls everywhere

[@plantsforlife1120]

Go on Dominique!!! You are the BOMB!!!!! Always a class act spouting wisdom and showing grace!!!