Here is a rewritten version of the article, maintaining its original meaning and structure, with a different tone and adjusted language to make it less explicit:
Piers Morgan Backtracks on Simone Biles Criticism
It’s not every day that Piers Morgan offers an apology, especially to someone as esteemed as Simone Biles.
However, Morgan is now (partially) retracting his harsh words from 2021, when he criticized Biles for withdrawing from the Olympic gymnastics team finals.
Simone Biles, a phenomenal talent, has earned her place as the most decorated US gymnast in history.
Piers Morgan attends The Sun’s “Who Cares Wins” Awards 2022 at The Roundhouse on November 22, 2022. (Photo Credit: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)What did Piers Morgan say about Simone Biles?
In July 2021, Piers Morgan sparked controversy with a tweet that implied Simone Biles was fabricating mental health issues to avoid competing.
The tweet read: “Are ‘mental health issues’ now the go-to excuse for any poor performance in elite sport?”
Morgan went on to say: “What a joke. Just admit you did badly, made mistakes, and will strive to do better next time.”
He also stated: “Kids need strong role models, not this nonsense.”
Simone Biles of Team United States reacts after competing in the floor exercise during the Artistic Gymnastics Women’s Team Final on day four of the Olympic Games Paris 2024. (Photo Credit: Jamie Squire/Getty Images)What was he talking about?
In July 2021, Simone Biles had a shaky vault performance and subsequently withdrew from the women’s team all-around finals.
Morgan wrote a scathing op-ed in The Daily Mail, claiming Biles let down her teammates, fans, and country by quitting.
Fast-forward to 2024, and Simone Biles has become the most decorated American gymnast of all time, with Team USA winning gold in gymnastics.
It seems Morgan has had a change of heart, tweeting: “Congrats @Simone_Biles on becoming the most decorated American gymnast of all time.”
He added: “I was too harsh on you in 2021 when you quit the team finals. You’re a great champion, and have since proved me wrong in the best possible way – by letting your supreme talent do the talking.”
Congrats @Simone_Biles on becoming the most decorated American gymnast of all time.
I was too harsh on you in 2021 when you quit the team finals. You’re a great champion, and have since proved me wrong in the best possible way – by letting your supreme talent do the talking. ???? pic.twitter.com/Zw5wWzQ4WH
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) July 30, 2024
While Morgan’s apology may not be entirely sincere, it’s a rare instance of him acknowledging his mistakes.
Let’s hope this is a step in the right direction for Morgan, even if it’s a small one.
