Two-time reigning World all-around gymnastics champion Simone Biles turned professional, signing with Octagon, the same agency that represents Michael Phelps.
Biles, 18, previously committed to attend UCLA but can’t compete collegiately as a professional gymnast. She has said she plans to defer enrollment until after the Rio 2016 Olympics.
“While I am grateful for the opportunity to compete collegiately, I feel that the chance to make my dream come true is right in front of me,” Biles said in a press release. “In order for me to be the best gymnast I can possibly be, I want to be sure that I have the necessary support and guidance in handling opportunities and demands outside of the gym. I know there are no guarantees, but I am excited and determined to be a member of Team USA at the 2016 Olympics.”
In her next meet, Biles can become the first woman to win three straight U.S. all-around titles since Kim Zmeskal from 1990-92 at the P&G Championships from Aug. 13-16 in Indianapolis.
In October, Biles could become the first woman ever to win three straight World all-around titles.
