In the summer of 2021, Simone Biles shocked the world by withdrawing from key Olympic events at the Tokyo Games, citing mental health concerns and a dangerous condition gymnasts call the “twisties.” Her decision sparked global discussions about athlete safety, mental health, and the expectations placed on world-class performers. But one of the loudest and harshest reactions came from conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. His remarks drew immediate backlash, and even years later, people still ask: what did Charlie Kirk say about Simone Biles in 2021?
This article offers a detailed look at his words, the circumstances surrounding them, the public’s reaction, and why the episode still resonates in 2025.
The Moment Simone Biles Stepped Back
On July 27, 2021, Simone Biles withdrew from the women’s gymnastics team final after an uncharacteristic performance on the vault. She later explained that she was experiencing the “twisties,” a dangerous loss of spatial awareness that can cause gymnasts to become disoriented mid-air. Competing in such a condition risked severe injury.
For many, her decision was courageous—a world champion choosing health over medals. Biles herself noted that she needed to focus on “mental well-being” and that pushing forward could endanger her safety.
But not everyone saw it that way. Some critics interpreted her withdrawal as abandoning her team or failing under pressure. Among those voices, Charlie Kirk’s stood out for its sharp tone.
What Did Charlie Kirk Say About Simone Biles in 2021?
On his show the day after her withdrawal, Charlie Kirk blasted Biles with unusually strong words. He labeled her:
- a “selfish sociopath”
- “immature”
- a “shame to the country”
He argued that by stepping back, she let her team down and embarrassed the United States on a global stage. Kirk also suggested that if she couldn’t handle the pressure of competition, she should never have gone to Tokyo in the first place.
To him, the Olympics were about grit, toughness, and representing the nation at all costs. He framed Biles’s actions as weakness rather than bravery.
Why Kirk’s Comments Sparked Outrage
Kirk’s words drew fire for several reasons:
- Insensitive to Mental Health: Biles was not just dealing with nerves. She openly explained her mental struggles, highlighting the link between psychological stability and physical safety. Dismissing this as weakness struck many as cruel.
- Ignorance of Gymnastics Risks: The twisties can cause catastrophic falls. By suggesting Biles should have “pushed through,” critics said Kirk showed no understanding of the dangers.
- National Shaming: Calling Biles a “shame to the country” framed her personal health decision as an act of betrayal, which many Americans felt was unfair to an athlete who had already brought immense pride through her past victories.
- Cultural Divide: His remarks reflected a wider debate about toughness versus vulnerability, a divide that extends beyond sports into politics and society.
The Immediate Public Response
The backlash to Kirk’s comments was swift.
- Athlete Solidarity: Fellow Olympians and professional athletes praised Biles for her honesty. They pointed out that courage comes in many forms, and stepping back under dangerous circumstances was a responsible choice.
- Support from Leaders: Public figures in politics and entertainment also voiced support for Biles, noting her history of resilience and the importance of prioritizing health.
- Social Media Outcry: On platforms like Twitter and Instagram, thousands criticized Kirk for using inflammatory language. Memes, posts, and hashtags defended Biles while condemning Kirk’s tone.
At the same time, Kirk’s words resonated with a smaller segment of people who felt that athletes should not bow out under pressure. This divide fueled ongoing debate, making his comments part of the larger national conversation.
Simone Biles’s Legacy vs. Kirk’s Words
Simone Biles went on to return later in the Tokyo Olympics, competing in the balance beam final and earning a bronze medal. Her decision to step back, then return, reinforced her message about self-care and resilience.
For her supporters, she became a symbol of strength in vulnerability. For Kirk’s critics, his words became an example of how public figures can deepen the stigma around mental health.
Years later, when people ask what did Charlie Kirk say about Simone Biles in 2021, the answer is clear: he dismissed her, insulted her character, and labeled her a disgrace at a moment when she was prioritizing survival over medals.
Renewed Focus in 2025
Although the comments were made in 2021, they resurfaced in 2025 after Charlie Kirk’s death. Online rumors claimed Simone Biles had written a blog post responding to his passing, describing his remarks as deeply damaging. The supposed post included emotional details about sleepless nights and scars left by being called a “national disgrace.”
However, no verified evidence supports that such a post exists. Fact-checkers have determined that the viral claims were fabricated. Still, the fact that these rumors spread so widely shows how much Kirk’s comments remain tied to his public image.
Why the Story Still Matters
The controversy continues to be discussed because it sits at the intersection of sports, mental health, and public discourse. Several reasons explain its staying power:
- Mental Health Awareness: Biles’s decision and Kirk’s reaction highlight the tension between outdated views of toughness and the modern understanding of psychological well-being.
- Public Accountability: Public figures like Kirk are judged by the language they use. His choice of words continues to be criticized as an example of commentary crossing into personal attack.
- Cultural Shift: The incident illustrates how the narrative around athletes is changing. While past generations might have demanded stoic toughness, today’s fans are more supportive of athletes as human beings first.
Broader Lessons from the Episode
The question of what did Charlie Kirk say about Simone Biles in 2021 is not just about one statement. It opens up bigger conversations about:
- Respect in Commentary: Critics can disagree without resorting to insults. The backlash against Kirk shows that audiences value thoughtful discussion over personal attacks.
- The Role of Athletes Beyond Sports: Biles became a symbol not only for gymnastics but for mental health advocacy. Her story goes beyond medals—it’s about changing perceptions worldwide.
- The Power of Words: Kirk’s remarks demonstrate how a single outburst can shape public memory. Even years later, people recall his words more vividly than other aspects of his career.
Key Timeline
| Date | Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| July 27, 2021 | Simone Biles withdraws from team final | Sparks global conversation on athlete mental health |
| July 27, 2021 | Charlie Kirk criticizes her on his show | Calls her a “selfish sociopath” and “shame to the country” |
| August 3, 2021 | Biles returns, wins bronze on balance beam | Widely praised for resilience and honesty |
| 2025 | Kirk’s death and online rumors about Biles’s response | Renewed attention to his 2021 comments |
Conclusion
So, what did Charlie Kirk say about Simone Biles in 2021? He branded her a “selfish sociopath,” “immature,” and a “shame to the country” after she withdrew from Olympic competition to protect her mental health and safety. His words were criticized as cruel and dismissive, sparking a lasting conversation about empathy, athlete well-being, and public responsibility.
Years later, the controversy remains a reminder that while medals fade, words last—and the way we talk about athletes under pressure can shape cultural attitudes for decades.
If you remember this moment, do you think Kirk’s criticism reflected tough truth, or was it an unfair attack? Share your perspective in the comments and join the conversation.