Photo: Laurence Griffiths / Getty Images
Simone Biles is considered the greatest gymnast in history and a example of strength and perseverance, but the Texas Assistant Attorney General rudely criticized her for her decision to withdraw from a end in Tokyo 2020 for not feeling mentally well.
Aaron Reitz of the Republican Party commented about Biles’ withdrawal in a tweet from someone else showing a video of gymnast Kerri Strug competing in 1996 despite an ankle injury .
“Contrast this with our selfish and childish national shame, Simone Biles,” wrote the Texas prosecutor unscrupulously.
She did it because it was the only way Team USA had a chance at Gold.
Due to her effort, Team USA won Gold. Amazing he yelled.
The great ones find a way. pic.twitter.com/Rg6Mv3z6Gg
– Chris Buskirk (@thechrisbuskirk) July 27, 2021
The withdrawal of Biles from both the team final on Tuesday and also of the individual final ‘All-Around’ this Thursday has been one of the most shocking news of the Olympic Games.
She could give up other competitions. The same Biles, from 24 years ago, had warned months ago about the effect of the pandemic in athletes.
Reactions from the public have been mostly positive for the honest message of the gymnast, which can help many people who are not mentally fit make good decisions and take care of themselves.
In that sense, the reaction of the Texas Attorney General, Ken Paxton, was supportive of Biles and criticized his assistant attorney.
“Today I heard about a very inappropriate and insensitive tweet from one of our employees . This matter will be dealt with internally, ”he wrote.
Today I learned about a very inappropriate and insensitive tweet by one of our employees.
This will be handled internally. pic.twitter.com/xln30 VxVFl
– Texas Attorney General (@TXAG) July 27, 2020
Countless users on social networks have reacted by recalling all the obstacles faced by Biles to get where he is. The prosecutor in the infamous comment is being beaten .
Texas Deputy Atty General Aaron Reitz sparked outrage on social media Tue after tweeting that Simone Biles was a “national embarrassment” after she announced her withdrawal from the Tokyo Olympics. 🤬What have any of your offspring accomplished besides riding on your coat tail? “ pic.twitter.com/E6uKdIAJLB
– Sumner (@diamondlass 80) July 28, 2021
Biles built a legendary career after a childhood full of challenges and his difficult and courageous decision in Tokyo will be one more part of his legacy.