Pogba sends a message of support to Biles

Biles, the most successful US gymnast of all time, said she had to focus on her mental health after pulling out of Tuesday’s women’s team final. While this has prompted debate in some quarters, the 24-year-old has largely been praised for prioritising her wellbeing when under huge pressure. 

Speaking after a below-par performance on Tuesday, the American told reporters in Japan: “After the performance I did, I just didn’t want to go on. 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 minds and our bodies and not just go out and do what the world wants us to do. I don’t trust myself as much anymore. Maybe it’s getting older. There were a couple of days when everybody tweets you and you feel the weight of the world. We’re not just athletes. We’re people at the end of the day and sometimes you just have to step back.”