Olympic Gold-Medalist Overcomes Rare Diagnosis | Simone Manuel: Head Above Water

The last few years for Simone Manuel have been pivotal. And while she’s on a significant global stage, still, very private.
Simone is so often a first, and an only. Her achievements are as big as the ceiling she’s shattered, which is to say, seemingly infinite. What’s possible for her in and outside of swim, even bigger than that.
Expectations for Tokyo 2020 were goalposts, constantly shifting, as Simone navigated a pandemic and a diagnosis of overtraining syndrome. She shouldered the weight of an entire community, as the nation reckoned with racism and racist systems that kept Black people from swim and so much more.
Simone stands as a pillar for excellence and progress and change, but with that comes expectations and the pressure to win. The 2020 Olympics didn’t see her compete at the level of expectation. And that’s just the beginning of the story.
TOGETHXR presents a short documentary that serves as a raw, honest exploration about what it means to be a first, to be an only - a glorious but often lonely journey for Simone Manuel as she looks towards the Paris 2024 Olympics, and begins a new chapter of competition at Arizona State University. Featuring interviews with Simone and her mother Sharron, as well as archival footage, candid verite and b-roll, this short doc isn’t just about Simone revealing herself to the world, truly, for the first time.
It’s not about getting something off her chest.
It’s about getting everything off her shoulders.
Special Thanks to Eichler Swim & Tennis Club located in Palo Alto, CA
eichlerclub.com/
Follow Simone on Instagram: / swimone
Follow Simone on Twitter: / swimone
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ABOUT TOGETHXR
TOGETHXR is a new media and commerce company founded by four of the world's greatest professional athletes: Alex Morgan, Chloe Kim, Simone Manuel, and Sue Bird. With a focus on rich storytelling rooted in lifestyle and youth culture, TOGETHXR is an unapologetic platform where representation and equality is the norm.
Olympic Gold-Medalist Overcomes Rare Diagnosis | Simone Manuel: Head Above Water
• Olympic Gold-Medalist ...

[@donnawaters5463]

This is why the term, “Black Girl Magic”! It’s not easy to be great while being Black and especially a Black woman. Thank you, Simone, for your strength, endurance and letting us in to your vulnerability. We appreciate your bravery in sharing your story, I pray that you have much happiness and success in whatever you choose to do.

[@donallen7728]

donnawaters5463 - I don allen agree 💯 percent with your accessment and opinions

[@EmpathsProvidence2]

Amen! We are proud of you not only for what you’ve achieved but for the mental strength it takes to be successful in another area we are not invited into and not really wanted. Bless you and I know you will be protected by our all mighty Father. ❤ Take care.

[@stevie586]

I LOVE the term “Black Girl Magic” because folks keep trying to tear our people down and it is an encouraging message that tells our women they are special. I must disagree.

[@neal6805]

*Honestly, Simone is the only reason why I’m watching the swimming events in the Olympics. Her historic win in the last Olympic Games made me so proud! She has some great parents!*

[@calicoesblue4703]

Facts💯💯💯

[@corriesmiley4315]

​@@calicoesblue4703😢

[@carltonscott8065]

Real talk go mi Sista bless up daughter of ZION 🎉congratulations I’m proud of you 😊

[@sharonibironke2163]

Me too

[@marieplacide1641]

Me too..watching for her race 🎉❤ 🇭🇹

[@chazmack418]

The one thing we as humans must learn, "shut out the noise." As a young black person, I went to integrated and segregated schools. I felt the need to be the smartest, but going to a predominately white school, I felt the need, not to be the best, but to perform at a level that would demonstrate blacks were as smart as any other group. But, throughout, I had to be reasonable and understand, it was not my duty as a black person to uphold a certain standard. Yet when you are the only one, one feels the duty to be the best and a responsibility to other blacks. I don't think whites feel that pressure "because their white." BRAVO SIMONE!

[@carolphillips8382]

Totally agree with you much older than you are. However, I have been there and done that completely understand your comments. Nice to see the younger generation is holding their own.

[@Honeedew1LUV]

So true!! I luv that.... shutting out the noise. and i hv NO problem doing that at work! I bring my best self to work everyday... I know they talk but i dont care. There are not many of us so I must be the best! And give my best! I present my best work (and got promoted). Not stopping there... I hv a goal to rise to the top. I will make it by working hard. If God be for me.....

[@BluDiamond01]

I am so proud of your courage and tenacity. You are Specacular❤ Thank you

[@TheMostHighDaughter180]

And whites don’t have to feel the pressure! They are always on top !

[@margarethaschenkers7052]

Simone Manuel and Simone Biles, we are proud of our black girls.

[@ellaalbios4806]

It's that BLACK GIRL MAGIC ❤

[@moegillums9301]

Hello Israilites, not blk, African American or any of these things HEATHENS basemen women and children call's us THE Bible scripture reading TRUTH say's different. Romans,9:(4).

[@AmericanObserver-kq7ye]

They are Black women. ☝🏽

[@danstephensen9032]

I’m so sorry about the negativity you’ve experienced. I’m just an ol’ white Grampa who Loves ALL of my brothers and sisters everywhere. I was the only “white face” in my high school Black History Class. I was PROUD to be there and valued each student. Some accepted me as the “honorary Brother!!” I took a very honorable young Lady from the class to the football game. (1968 in Vallejo, CA.) Neither of us could believe the many rude “stink eyes” 👀 we got!! I felt the hatred to both of us. When she started crying I asked if she wanted to leave. We went back to her house and enjoyed visiting with her parents who were both Medical professionals. 3 elderly “Golden Girls” have lived across the street from us for 10 years. I’m thrilled to be their “first call” whenever they need anything. I bring in the garbage cans, change shower heads, fix gates, bring in cases of water. I can’t do enough for them and we celebrate a loving relationship. They have come to our LDS church many times for musical presentations which they love. I’m richer because of these associations I’ve had in my lifetime. We’re all but Travelers here on Earth hoping to return to Heavenly Father according to how we have lived our lives. I KNOW you and Yours will be counted as Disciples of Jesus. NO QUESTION. I Celebrate the Joy of your AMAZING Success. Much Love…. Your Brother💜💧💚💙💜 USAF VET FATHER of 7 amazing Adults Pro-Drummer 60 years

[@flopsymopsy7088]

Black WOMEN..we are proud of black women and black men…….not black girls and boys.

[@patriciasmith364]

Thank you for sharing your story. I am a Black mom, who is crying because of the trauma that you experienced, but we are rooting for you, whatever you decide to do from here on in. You are absolutely amazing!!❤

[@DinNDee]

The coach at Stanford should be ashamed of the lack of support given to one of their top athletes. However, as a black woman, I am not at all surprised at the lack of support and understanding she received because that is the norm and not the exception.

[@Honeedew1LUV]

😂I wrote the SAME thing on the Stanford utube page lol. I watch a lot of news yet nvvvvvrrrrrr heard of Simone Manuel,s Excellent progress wins, accomplishments etc in the wonderful world of swimming. I will like every one of her interviews races etc to support her as much as possible. WE must support this QUEEN at all costt❤

[@stevie586]

People don’t care about or listen to us. They also don’t understand our bodies are completely different than the bodies of most others! They truly don’t care nor have respect for us.

[@shirleyvllj]

Simone Manuel, you make me continue to live happily as a proud Black African American woman in the US. We have endured so very much both from emotional and physical experiences. You and your parents make me proud to be Black. Thank you!

[@yjallen]

THIS!!

[@yasminm.1801]

can we just take some time to appreciate how nurturing and understanding her mother is ✨👏🏽

[@justhuman43]

Yes her Mom is awesome!!!!!!!!

[@jewelpoole9191]

She is the reason why watched swimming trials, and Olympics.

[@Eboli-dx5mq]

Sista, I AM so very, very, “EXTREMELY “ proud of you. Be happy, be loved, be at peace, BE BLESSED!🫶🏾

[@crystalgreen9441]

I’m proud of you Simone and go bring home the gold medal 🥇

[@dawnfussell9240]

I cried.. Cause it pains me to see the hatred we should never have for another human being because of skin color. However, they are tears of joy as well seeing you and your family staying together through this trying time. All praises to God and keep letting God shine through because He will always truimph... God bless you!

[@lilactuliee6953]

People like that who spread hate just because of color are disgusting. It's too bad more women of color are simply not interested in the sport. We would probably shut it down. 😄

[@yvonneplant9434]

It's hard! No doubt about it. I spent most of my career in IT being a token woman of color. So I understand her. But she will make history. She already has. ❤

[@My3Sunzs]

Humans are GODs creation. The issues they have is with GOD.🙏✨

[@Honeedew1LUV]

I said the same thang. Its disgusting. The amount of hate bc of skin color is just sad...these insecure individuals hating on those who are shining!!

[@sharonspencer8267]

I have been thinking about this sport and wandering why it has not been represented by the black community. It is fantastic to finally see a young black lady who has been swimming for a while and to know she has achieved in her own rights. Well done Simone,and a big thank you.❤❤

[@Theone-jt4lr]

Google

[@alfairefountaine4150]

Queen Simone you are Amazing. You have and continue to make us proud. Don’t think that you have to carry us, think about it as we are lifting you up. You are already a Winner and no one can erase that. See you in Paris. Peace and Blessings Queen Simone 🙌🏾

[@ileanahulme9254]

Simone you are beautiful, what people say doesn’t make who you are. Stay strong and have faith.👍

[@TheRetroWoman80]

I feel you Simone. And this is why "strong" people usually keep their issues to themselves in the first place. The berating and dismissing would have any decent percent retreating within. People are so ignorant to real problems that others suffer in silence with.

[@jeannebrooks6003]

I can’t speak en masse, but as a mother of children and grandchildren of color, I’m so proud of you, not only for your swimming accomplishments but also for your honesty and for speaking out about mental health for black athletes representing USA

[@unomaazuah]

You are awesome Simone! Thank you 🙏🏾

[@kejohnson123]

so grateful Simone shared her story with us

[@musiclover7840]

When I was in college in the late '70's, it was called "failing adaptation". I had all the symptoms of Simone, but I couldn't tell my coach because she thought I wasn't training hard enough. I didn't realize what I experienced was something serious until years after I graduated. We didn't have the information nor the support services there are now. Had I knew then what I know now, I would've spoken up to someone.

[@TheRetroWoman80]

I'm sorry nobody was there for you like they should have been. Hugs💚💚

[@sknmwms6516]

You go SIMONE AND NEVER LOOK BACK SWIM ON!

[@berthasherman6929]

So proud of Simone. You would never know how dominant she is & has all of those accomplishments. She deserves the spotlight. We are here to support and lift her up. Stay strong Simone❤💜👍👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@turragorman59]

Incredible swimmer, incredible woman. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@candunc23]

Omg I wish I had seen this before my family, and I had the pleasure of meeting her. She's so humble and caring. Wow, you and your parents have the most beautiful souls we have ever felt. Thank you, Simone, we love you! Be selfish when you need to! God has a 7-year plan for you. Protect your spirit at all cost because you are a rare gem. Priceless❤

[@trienasee2136]

I with team Simone. She has such a beautiful spirit. Love her supportive family as well. So sorry for her to feel alone on these teams. I wish the other girls could be more a receptive of her beautiful spirit.

[@paulahughes5486]

i love this piece and will never stop loving simone's story

[@MarioGalit22]

Being an Olympic and World champion like Simone Manuel, brings the nation and its people on top of the world👍that money can't buy. Proud to have Simone Manuel as part of Team USA, I love to cheer for. Nice to see her again in pool🙂Go Simone...Go Team USA🇺🇸🇵🇭

[@tararansom2750]

Same way they treated Biles

[@JWilson-qm8cf]

Yeah but they were all shut up not with Words! With Gold Medals. To be the Best in the entire World!

[@evondagibbs5733]

I'm glad you didn't give up!❤ Luv ya Simone! Look forward to see you in Paris! Go win the Gold!🏊

[@JWilson-qm8cf]

Well, this has Aged well! This Woman is a Spectacular Champion and is cleaning up in the Paris Olympics! Bringing home Gold for Team USA! Well done Champion!

[@hillaryd.t.gillings8567]

I did not know she had gone through all of this. I had sensed it though, I am black. Keep up the good work!

[@precioustendo5167]

The pressure on these athletes is so crazy.Do it for you not for a community! Do you girl!!❤

[@AmberU]

I’m rooting for her to make it back and succeed again !

[@renee6511]

We are so proud of you Simone. Most importantly just for being YOU❤🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@lifehaznolimit]

I hate I had never even heard of her a d. All myself a well-rounded Sport follower. This broke my heart and inspired me at the same time.

[@jordyaaaa2990]

Same

[@ajustice822]

So glad I found this story. We fight on every hand. All the best to you Ms, Simone, 🎉❤

[@daviabraxton3099]

Such a beautiful inspiration ❤young lady.

[@jameslawson2455]

And the sport loves you, Simone. This piece shows your loving family that has helped create you to be you. You are still a shining star. I love to see you happy again, and enjoying the sport.

[@tewfik8616]

When you comeback home with a bronze medal from the olympics and you still devastated then you know you're a true champion.

[@angelredou-breaker9753]

You are a phenomenal woman and have been very encouraging to my swimmer. Thank you for standing so graciously through adversity and leaning on your faith. You are appreciated.

[@alexiscarothers6377]

It's just something about that name "Simone" 2 amazing women smashing their sports,trail blazing,not just for females but African American females--fussing up to over trying and twisties--just soul tired as one Mama would say yet being amazing and brave enough to speak out about physical and mental ateuggles--especially in a community where mental health is not "talked about"--just extraordinary there's just something powerful about that name💯💪🏽👊🏽👏🏽❤

[@LindyMia-ft9md]

Swim for the Joy! 🎉 No expectations. Thank you, Simone, for all you have achieved! 💪🏾 And, thank you for sharing your story. 🥹😍

[@jlomax4403]

Thanks for sharing your story Simone! My daughter is about to turn 6 tomorrow and she watches your videos. She had questions about something’s you said. It was awesome watching my daughter trying to understand what your talking about. Keep inspiring! My daughter loves you! ❤️ 💕

[@lanettabritt3778]

Simone you are awesome 👏🏾

[@Gloriaamaofahayah]

Bless you thank you for representing, it is a load but the Lord is your strength and sit in his love and allow time to heal the wounds of living in a wicked nation and the processes of overcoming the mountains to achieve your goal. Ahman

[@lackerman3975]

Her coach gave her bad advice. She should have listened to her body and the results in her training...slower time 😢 . That said...thank you Simone for sharing your story because other young black female athletes can listen and learn from your experience. Keep your head up love and enjoy your accomplishments in the knowledge that you have overcome incredibly hard odds.❤

[@carolynl.crudup9103]

Beautiful Champion inside and out respect and thanks. She's a phonemal barrier breaker and why I watch and follow swimming looking for her. Praying giving thanks for her and her parents faith and class. Blessings and hope ❤❤❤'s goodness and mercy following.

[@donnascott7037]

Simone I'm so proud of you. Don't let nobody tell you what's going on with your body or mind. You are in control and you got this. Keep winning those gold medals and much love and respect you go girl!

[@monicalawal5236]

Simone so glad to hear your story and to tell you I have been a fan from the beginning, hold your head up High because you are awesome and extremely talented, often as black people we have to always prove our selves worthy to be a part of something. You have done that. Keep going.

[@ervinjackson3261]

Just be proud of who you is and what you represent, you represent your race and your country and we love you whether you went or lose so that you can’t lose. We got you either way.

[@MyChannel-1999]

We love and proud of you.

[@najjalawson5332]

I LOVE this. God bless you Simone ❤

[@anitaedwards4967]

What a beautiful story about a beautiful woman. God Bless you Simon.

[@CherrieMcKenzie]

Life is a lot about the hurdles you help yourself overcome as well as the realization of WHY you are doing what you do. Simone has realized that and is so lucky to have two great parents who were always there for her to lean on when the load got too heavy. Well done young lady, very well done!!

[@kuroneko7022]

How do you teach your children to hate? Imagine a little kid saying something like that to another child because they don’t look like them. I can just imagine the hate she gets just because she’s good and black. The goal is always to break someone’s spirit. Then you hear: why is everything about race? Because it usually is. Despite everything, she still excelled!

[@hattiewhitfield2629]

❤❤❤Find the JOY Simone find the Joy!

[@monicawest4000]

I'm extremely happy for you! Please continue to be the awesome young lady you are!! 😊❤

[@marciasteele8230]

You inspire! You are amazing and humble. Swimming for me is life!

[@JasdeepFinance]

Great video!!! Beautiful family! Keep swimming!

[@drpepperr]

Swimming was a big part of my young life. Simone Manuel's story was a curiosity to me. Thank you for this revealing piece. Opportunity and a platform to inspire, Simone? You're inspiring me!

[@jamieledbetterlovern1325]

You are amazing and inspirational!

[@maureenholder7510]

Love her mother...she breaks all the negative stereo types of black mothers and fathers ..black parents on the whole

[@cath1409]

thank you for sharing simone’s story 💙

[@michelhill8528]

Do not ever let them paralyze your mind or your imagination sis. Be Brave. Love alone from Tortola, Virgin Islands.

[@trecswagg3635]

Thank you Simone. From one black woman to another. I know it's hard to carry the weight of the community on your shoulders, but thank you for giving our black girls and boys an example to aspire to. Your works were not in vein. You'll always represent excellence to many of us. You are truly appreciated.

[@thornewaugh1503]

Continue to extend your reach!!!!!

[@francesdelrosario1193]

I enjoyed this story. Simon you are awesome.

[@larryjohnson1191]

What you have already accomplished is quite amazing, Appreciate you! I do! Congratulations!

[@Milden79]

She´s great!!

[@eddedream8586]

So brave what a warrior 💪🏽 perseverance and self care is crucial 🎯🥳💪🏽

[@k.celeste1301]

Thank you, Simone! You are much appreciated by many.

[@jasoniyasara1149]

INSPIRATION!

[@FoodNerds]

Congratulations on all your victories.

[@debralove9392]

Thank you for sharing your story Simone. Believe in yourself and your abilities and enjoy your success as a great Olympic athlete!!! God will help you and strengthen you in all you do!!! God bless you and your family!!!

[@georgenabulele]

WOW, What an inspiring story. CONGRATULATIONS to you for all that you have accomplished.

[@sdavis6438]

Enjoyed the piece and love you SImone 😍. Will continue to and look forward to watching you grow and prosper.

[@Tunenine]

I had to see her life in my own eyes by seeing it with my daughter who usually was the only brown or black person on her soccer team. She was top all-around player (all but goalie), but the stress of being stared at, uninvited to social events, uninvited to family events when other girls were always invited, the boys were her friend or pretended to be her friend but wouldn't take her home. She was always the only one and didn't get the mental health handled that danced in her head and worn her down. My regret is I was so excited about her ability and her glowing future that I didn't see what she was going through internally it until it was too late. The coaches were so busy praising her and getting wins due to her that they were blind and/or because they inheritably don't see pass their color, either can fit. She could have easily been a high-level player but being an "only" just beat her down. I 100% understand Simone, it's just not fair to our children.

[@daviabraxton3099]

Love you. Simone ❤you are 👏amazing You inspired me❤😂😊

[@shelleystrong8673]

Hard to watch. Too painful. Too familiar (in every career path). Working twice as hard as colleagues to be considered as competent. Just be the queen that you are when you walk in the room. You’re not alone Simone.

[@Ddal0ceano]

Love her acknowledging her accomplishments.

[@dohcsmr1175]

Miss Simone, Trust yourself! Trust your intelligence. And remember how much you have touched Americas heart. Regardless of your results. You are loved by ALL Americans. Unfortunately there is ignorance everywhere. Do not let them detour your goal. All the best My Lady!!

[@lorettaamica8844]

Simone Manuel,again thanks you for the medals you have won and the awesome emotional support you received from your parents, Ps Have fun💐💐❤️❤️

[@broomesy0272]

What Simone experienced is similar to what Black people and all people of color in America experience. We are not taken as seriously as our counterparts of European descent, not by coaches or doctors. As a father of two daughters, a former young Black athlete, and a coach, my heart goes out to Simone for what she had to endure. It's incredible to me that in the 21st Century, this is still the case. Simone, thank you for sharing your story. I am one of your fans.

[@carolinemarchale959]

You’re a beautiful example for us all. Thank you🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@noeliselorde3598]

Thank God you survived , and you are brave enough to tell your story... This is perhaps bigger than the gold medal ( the lives that you touched by being truthful and inspiring someone else in a similar situation). May God grant you the success you desire in your future endeavors. You have done greatttttt! Keep your head up!

[@pam18ram]

Thanks for sharing your story. You are a champion not only in the pool, but in life!👏👏👏

[@danejohnson8430]

Stay strong. That’s what you did & continue to do. To me it’s a shame to say you’re the first African or the first black or the first whatever to say in a country that you represent. I say do you, no matter what, do you. set the example for others. A leader in the making is what you are and carry-on for others. Blessings God‘s blessings.

[@ronniejohnson196]

Totally Ditto That!!!!!

[@oyandakona5994]

❤️

[@lilacgreens-kh9jg]

It’s ok to say it, but a lot of times they focus on it for a good “story” and ignore the whole person who may also be a 1st in so many other ways. She isn’t just a great Black swimmer, she is Simone and is one of the best swimmers who has broken many records. I can see how it undermines your performance completely. I see it in students all the time who burn themselves out trying to live up to something someone has told them they are when they would probably be much better off without the distraction. I feel like the same phenomenon impacted Shacarri Richardson and Simone Biles.

[@williamokuda8882]

A very talented beautiful woman.

[@nadialaribi]

She is an athlete first and foremost! And what an athlete! Thanks for sharing your story❤

[@flopsymopsy7088]

Simone you ARE different than others..you are a winner of several gold medals. I’m tired of HATERS taking over my country.

[@KayeJones-e5k]

Taking over our.

[@marcianlewis]

You make us proud. 😊

[@hubertluke8730]

Just remember miss Simone love ❤️ your self first,every other will find their place

[@jk11463]

Black POWER. We’re the most amazing race of people the world has ever known.

[@lolam.5062]

So so dang proud of and inspired by Simone Manuel 🎉❤ utterly ahmazing!! I would luv 2 swim like her! What a gr8 athlete! Powerfull!!

[@rerebrook5057]

As a parent we will ALWAYS want you to bring your burdens to us. That’s what we’re here for. Never suffer in silence. ❤

[@LucyLeonty]

She is so lucky to have a wonderful family xx❤❤ Sending love from the UK.

[@lynnwebler7041]

Great presentation. Proud of you and your family.

[@sisterbrothers1677]

Weird in a karmic way, Manuel won the Olympics AND World Championships despite not being the favorite. She always had a beautiful smooth stroke. I think the Stanford girls are generally too intense, they seem merely satisfied with achieving goals, not joyous.

[@jedfrassica7932]

Great video

[@yvettesmith4991]

American to me is just wicked, as long as we are giving 100% they love you! if not, we are lazy but we can never be sick ever. But those complaining cannot bust a grape🤔 that’s a wicked person, period.

[@greathenares]

So beautiful and so terrific! Congratulations, Simone!

[@anger101]

incredible.

[@deebryant1666]

CONGRATULATIONS BEAUTIFUL 😍 🎉❤