Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles was one of the hundreds of women who stepped forward in 2018 with her account of sexual abuse by former Team USA doctor Larry Nassar. Now, she is reflecting on her decision to share her story, recognizing that "it could help a lot of people."
"A lot of people follow me. A lot of people go on my platforms, and I've always been an open and honest book from the very beginning," Biles shared on the "Call Her Daddy" podcast, released on Wednesday, April 17. "I've always decided I'm not going to let anything ever change me because this is who I am. So, take it or leave it."
Although it was a brave and hard decision to come forward and recount her experience, Biles decided to do it because "it could help a lot of people." She continued, "If I could shine a light on whatever that is, then I'm going to do that."
She proceeded to explain how she continues to process the abuse and the impact it has had on her life. "But I wanted to be in a good enough place and to have the proper help lined up before I spoke out because that stuff was so traumatizing," the gymnast shared. "And I truly don't understand how I did what I did under those circumstances and how I put on a face."
Biles came forward in January 2018 via X (formerly known as Twitter). "Most of you know me as a happy, giggly, and energetic girl," she began her message. "But lately...I've felt a bit broken and the more I try to shut off the voice in my head the louder it screams. I am not afraid to tell my story anymore."
She went on to say, "I too am one of the many survivors that was sexually abused by Larry Nassar. Please believe me when I say it was a lot harder to first speak those words out loud than it is not to put them on paper."
Nassar pleaded guilty to molesting 10 girls and possessing child pornography, leading to a 60-year prison term in December 2017. More than 130 women and girls, including fellow gold medalists McKayla Maroney, Aly Raisman, and Gabby Douglas, have accused him of inappropriate or abusive sexual behavior.
If you or anyone you know has been sexually abused, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). A trained staff member will provide confidential, judgment-free support as well as local resources to assist in healing, recovering and more.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
