Mental health experts said Simone Biles' withdrawal could be a pivotal moment in Black women's history. Author: Brittany Kleinpeter Updated: 5:35 PM EDT July 30, 2021 ATLANTA — Simone Biles' withdrawal from Thursday's individual all-around competition at the Tokyo Olympics has sparked a global conversation around mental health and the stigma that society often places on Black women to be strong. “I have to do what’s right for me and focus on my mental health,” Simone Biles said on Thursday. The announcement marks the second time in recent months that a world class Black athlete has publicly prioritized their mental health over competing. Simone Biles' withdrawal comes just months after tennis Champion Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open citing similar reasons.