Adriano shares heartfelt message with Simone Biles

Former Inter Milan and Brazil striker Adriano has posted a heartfelt message to United States gymnast Simone Biles on social media.

Biles, who has won a record-breaking 25 world medals throughout her gymnastics career, pulled out of the women’s team final at Tokyo 2020 on Tuesday.

She briefly left the arena after her first routine before returning to support her team-mates, who went on to win the silver medal.

After the final, she explained that she had to “focus on [her] mental health”.

“After the performance I did, I just didn’t want to go on,” she said.

“I have to focus on my mental health. I just think mental health is more prevalent in sports right now.

“We have to protect our bodies and not just go out and do what the world wants us to do.

“We’re not just athletes. We’re people at the end of the day and sometimes you just have to step back.

“I didn’t want to go out and do something stupid and get hurt.”

Biles – who later also pulled out of the women’s all-around final – was widely praised for her decision.

Former Team GB gymnast Beth Tweddle, who won bronze at London 2012 in the uneven bars event, told BBC: “Since 2013 she’s been undefeated in the all-around so every competition she goes in, everyone expects her to be perfection, and it’s just not possible.

“She was strong enough to say: ‘I’m just not right today and I’ve got the belief in the rest of the girls. They know they can step up that they can do their routines’.”

Boxer Manny Pacquiao tweeted: “Once a champion, always a champion. God Bless Simone Biles.”

Adriano gives his support to Biles

Former Brazil forward Adriano has also given his support to the US gymnast.

Adriano has previously opened up about the mental health problems he suffered following the passing of his father in 2004.

He published a poignant article on The Players’ Tribune during Mental Health Awareness Week back in May.

On Twitter, he wrote to Biles via his official account: “I know exactly what’s going on and don’t let people crucify you.

“Be happy and take care of your head!

“I went through this and until today I am questioned. May God forgive these bad people.”

Featured Image Credit: Getty