Four-time Olympic gold medallist Simone Biles withdraws from another two Games finals

Simone Biles has pulled out of another two Olympics finals, USA Gymnastics has said.

The four-time Olympic gold medallist has ruled herself out of the vault and uneven bars finals in Tokyo.

On Thursday, she withdrew from the all-round final – citing a desire to protect her mental health.

The 24-year-old is still undecided on whether she will compete in her remaining finals, the floor and beam.

In a statement, USA Gymnastics said: “She will continue to be evaluated daily to determine whether to compete in the finals for floor exercise and balance beam.”

Biles is the defending champion in vault, and her place will now be taken by MyKayla Skinner.

“We remain in awe of Simone, who continues to handle this situation with courage and grace, and all of the athletes who have stepped up during these unexpected circumstances,” USA Gymnastics added.

The gymnast has been praised for her bravery in confronting her challenges with mental health – including by the head of the International Olympic Committee.

Thomas Bach said: “She admits to having this problem. This is already courageous. Who one year ago would have admitted to say (they) have mental health problems?

“And at the same time then cheering on (her) team mates. And then being there, and supporting when her successor is in the all-around final? This is, you know, great human quality and this is Olympic spirit at its best.”