Simone Biles Set to Make Grand Return to Competitive Stage at U.S. Classic

Gymnastics superstar Simone Biles is set to make her grand return to the competitive stage later this summer, officials announced Wednesday. Biles, a seven-time Olympic medalist and four-time Olympic gold medal-winner, will be among the participants for the U.S. Classic on August 5.

The 26-year-old was a breakout star of the 2016 Rio Olympics, striking gold in the team all-around, individual all-around, vault and floor exercise and taking a bronze on the balance beam. She will compete in the event on Aug. 4-5 at NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, Illinois.

Biles’ return comes nearly two years after she dropped out of several events during the Tokyo Olympics as she dealt with mental health issues. She said at the time she was experiencing the “twisties,” a condition wherein a gymnast has trouble determining where their body is as they spin through the air.

The U.S. Classic will be the first sanctioned event for Biles since the Tokyo Olympics. She is expected to compete in the all-around event, as well as the balance beam and floor exercise.

The U.S. Classic is the first of three events in the U.S. Olympic Team Trials, which will determine the U.S. Olympic team for the Tokyo Games. Biles is expected to be among the favorites to make the team.