Olympic Gold-Medalist Overcomes Rare Diagnosis | Simone Manuel: Head Above Water

Рет қаралды 51,417

Жыл бұрын

The last few years for Simone Manuel have been pivotal. And while she’s on a significant global stage, still, very private.
Simone is so often a first, and an only. Her achievements are as big as the ceiling she’s shattered, which is to say, seemingly infinite. What’s possible for her in and outside of swim, even bigger than that.
Expectations for Tokyo 2020 were goalposts, constantly shifting, as Simone navigated a pandemic and a diagnosis of overtraining syndrome. She shouldered the weight of an entire community, as the nation reckoned with racism and racist systems that kept Black people from swim and so much more.
Simone stands as a pillar for excellence and progress and change, but with that comes expectations and the pressure to win. The 2020 Olympics didn’t see her compete at the level of expectation. And that’s just the beginning of the story.
TOGETHXR presents a short documentary that serves as a raw, honest exploration about what it means to be a first, to be an only - a glorious but often lonely journey for Simone Manuel as she looks towards the Paris 2024 Olympics, and begins a new chapter of competition at Arizona State University. Featuring interviews with Simone and her mother Sharron, as well as archival footage, candid verite and b-roll, this short doc isn’t just about Simone revealing herself to the world, truly, for the first time.
It’s not about getting something off her chest.
It’s about getting everything off her shoulders.
Special Thanks to Eichler Swim & Tennis Club located in Palo Alto, CA
eichlerclub.com/
Follow Simone on Instagram: / swimone
Follow Simone on Twitter: / swimone
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ABOUT TOGETHXR
TOGETHXR is a new media and commerce company founded by four of the world's greatest professional athletes: Alex Morgan, Chloe Kim, Simone Manuel, and Sue Bird. With a focus on rich storytelling rooted in lifestyle and youth culture, TOGETHXR is an unapologetic platform where representation and equality is the norm.
Olympic Gold-Medalist Overcomes Rare Diagnosis | Simone Manuel: Head Above Water
• Olympic Gold-Medalist ...

Пікірлер: 105

@chazmack418 5 күн бұрын

The one thing we as humans must learn, "shut out the noise." As a young black person, I went to integrated and segregated schools. I felt the need to be the smartest, but going to a predominately white school, I felt the need, not to be the best, but to perform at a level that would demonstrate blacks were as smart as any other group. But, throughout, I had to be reasonable and understand, it was not my duty as a black person to uphold a certain standard. Yet when you are the only one, one feels the duty to be the best and a responsibility to other blacks. I don't think whites feel that pressure "because their white." BRAVO SIMONE!

@neal6805 3 күн бұрын

*Honestly, Simone is the only reason why I’m watching the swimming events in the Olympics. Her historic win in the last Olympic Games made me so proud! She has some great parents!*

@calicoesblue4703 2 күн бұрын

Facts💯💯💯

@corriesmiley4315 Күн бұрын

@@calicoesblue4703😢

@yasminm.1801 4 күн бұрын

can we just take some time to appreciate how nurturing and understanding her mother is ✨👏🏽

@patriciasmith364 11 күн бұрын

Thank you for sharing your story. I am a Black mom, who is crying because of the trauma that you experienced, but we are rooting for you, whatever you decide to do from here on in. You are absolutely amazing!!❤

@jewelpoole9191 3 күн бұрын

She is the reason why watched swimming trials, and Olympics.

@crystalgreen9441 4 күн бұрын

I’m proud of you Simone and go bring home the gold medal 🥇

@Eboli-dx5mq 3 күн бұрын

Sista, I AM so very, very, “EXTREMELY “ proud of you. Be happy, be loved, be at peace, BE BLESSED!🫶🏾

@donnawaters5463 Күн бұрын

This is why the term, “Black Girl Magic”! It’s not easy to be great while being Black and especially a Black woman. Thank you, Simone, for your strength, endurance and letting us in to your vulnerability. We appreciate your bravery in sharing your story, I pray that you have much happiness and success in whatever you choose to do.

@shirleyvllj 2 күн бұрын

Simone Manuel, you make me continue to live happily as a proud Black African American woman in the US. We have endured so very much both from emotional and physical experiences. You and your parents make me proud to be Black. Thank you!

@ileanahulme9254 3 ай бұрын

Simone you are beautiful, what people say doesn’t make who you are. Stay strong and have faith.👍

@alfairefountaine4150 4 күн бұрын

Queen Simone you are Amazing. You have and continue to make us proud. Don’t think that you have to carry us, think about it as we are lifting you up. You are already a Winner and no one can erase that. See you in Paris. Peace and Blessings Queen Simone 🙌🏾

@jeannebrooks6003 2 күн бұрын

I can’t speak en masse, but as a mother of children and grandchildren of color, I’m so proud of you, not only for your swimming accomplishments but also for your honesty and for speaking out about mental health for black athletes representing USA

@trienasee2136 3 күн бұрын

I with team Simone. She has such a beautiful spirit. Love her supportive family as well. So sorry for her to feel alone on these teams. I wish the other girls could be more a receptive of her beautiful spirit.

@kejohnson123 Жыл бұрын

so grateful Simone shared her story with us

@unomaazuah 3 ай бұрын

You are awesome Simone! Thank you 🙏🏾

@candunc23 Жыл бұрын

Omg I wish I had seen this before my family, and I had the pleasure of meeting her. She's so humble and caring. Wow, you and your parents have the most beautiful souls we have ever felt. Thank you, Simone, we love you! Be selfish when you need to! God has a 7-year plan for you. Protect your spirit at all cost because you are a rare gem. Priceless❤

@dawnfussell9240 6 ай бұрын

I cried.. Cause it pains me to see the hatred we should never have for another human being because of skin color. However, they are tears of joy as well seeing you and your family staying together through this trying time. All praises to God and keep letting God shine through because He will always truimph... God bless you!

@lilactuliee6953 3 ай бұрын

People like that who spread hate just because of color are disgusting. It's too bad more women of color are simply not interested in the sport. We would probably shut it down. 😄

@yvonneplant9434 12 күн бұрын

It's hard! No doubt about it. I spent most of my career in IT being a token woman of color. So I understand her. But she will make history. She already has. ❤

@TheRetroWoman80 10 күн бұрын

I feel you Simone. And this is why "strong" people usually keep their issues to themselves in the first place. The berating and dismissing would have any decent percent retreating within. People are so ignorant to real problems that others suffer in silence with.

@paulahughes5486 Жыл бұрын

i love this piece and will never stop loving simone's story

@turragorman59 2 ай бұрын

Incredible swimmer, incredible woman. Thank you for sharing your story.

@MarioGalit22 Жыл бұрын

Being an Olympic and World champion like Simone Manuel, brings the nation and its people on top of the world👍that money can't buy. Proud to have Simone Manuel as part of Team USA, I love to cheer for. Nice to see her again in pool🙂Go Simone...Go Team USA🇺🇸🇵🇭

@jameslawson2455 Жыл бұрын

And the sport loves you, Simone. This piece shows your loving family that has helped create you to be you. You are still a shining star. I love to see you happy again, and enjoying the sport.

@evondagibbs5733 3 күн бұрын

I'm glad you didn't give up!❤ Luv ya Simone! Look forward to see you in Paris! Go win the Gold!🏊

@musiclover7840 Жыл бұрын

When I was in college in the late '70's, it was called "failing adaptation". I had all the symptoms of Simone, but I couldn't tell my coach because she thought I wasn't training hard enough. I didn't realize what I experienced was something serious until years after I graduated. We didn't have the information nor the support services there are now. Had I knew then what I know now, I would've spoken up to someone.

@TheRetroWoman80 10 күн бұрын

I'm sorry nobody was there for you like they should have been. Hugs💚💚

@sknmwms6516 2 күн бұрын

You go SIMONE AND NEVER LOOK BACK SWIM ON!

@berthasherman6929 2 күн бұрын

So proud of Simone. You would never know how dominant she is & has all of those accomplishments. She deserves the spotlight. We are here to support and lift her up. Stay strong Simone❤💜👍👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🎉🎉🎉🎉

@ajustice822 2 күн бұрын

So glad I found this story. We fight on every hand. All the best to you Ms, Simone, 🎉❤

@daviabraxton3099 3 ай бұрын

Such a beautiful inspiration ❤young lady.

@AmberU Жыл бұрын

I’m rooting for her to make it back and succeed again !

@lanettabritt3778 4 күн бұрын

Simone you are awesome 👏🏾

@lifehaznolimit 10 ай бұрын

I hate I had never even heard of her a d. All myself a well-rounded Sport follower. This broke my heart and inspired me at the same time.

@jordyaaaa2990 9 ай бұрын

Same

@angelredou-breaker9753 Жыл бұрын

You are a phenomenal woman and have been very encouraging to my swimmer. Thank you for standing so graciously through adversity and leaning on your faith. You are appreciated.

@jlomax4403 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your story Simone! My daughter is about to turn 6 tomorrow and she watches your videos. She had questions about something’s you said. It was awesome watching my daughter trying to understand what your talking about. Keep inspiring! My daughter loves you! ❤️ 💕

@monicalawal5236 Күн бұрын

Simone so glad to hear your story and to tell you I have been a fan from the beginning, hold your head up High because you are awesome and extremely talented, often as black people we have to always prove our selves worthy to be a part of something. You have done that. Keep going.

@tewfik8616 Жыл бұрын

When you comeback home with a bronze medal from the olympics and you still devastated then you know you're a true champion.

@Gloriaamaofahayah Күн бұрын

Bless you thank you for representing, it is a load but the Lord is your strength and sit in his love and allow time to heal the wounds of living in a wicked nation and the processes of overcoming the mountains to achieve your goal. Ahman

@DinNDee 6 күн бұрын

The coach at Stanford should be ashamed of the lack of support given to one of their top athletes. However, as a black woman, I am not at all surprised at the lack of support and understanding she received because that is the norm and not the exception.

@jasoniyasara1149 4 ай бұрын

INSPIRATION!

@jamieledbetterlovern1325 4 күн бұрын

You are amazing and inspirational!

@thornewaugh1503 Жыл бұрын

Continue to extend your reach!!!!!

@marcianlewis 8 күн бұрын

You make us proud. 😊

@Milden79 Жыл бұрын

She´s great!!

@najjalawson5332 9 ай бұрын

I LOVE this. God bless you Simone ❤

@hattiewhitfield2629 6 күн бұрын

❤❤❤Find the JOY Simone find the Joy!

@MyChannel-1999 Жыл бұрын

We love and proud of you.

@danejohnson8430 3 ай бұрын

Stay strong. That’s what you did & continue to do. To me it’s a shame to say you’re the first African or the first black or the first whatever to say in a country that you represent. I say do you, no matter what, do you. set the example for others. A leader in the making is what you are and carry-on for others. Blessings God‘s blessings.

@ronniejohnson196 3 ай бұрын

Totally Ditto That!!!!!

@oyandakona5994 3 күн бұрын

❤️

@casapinka9715 4 күн бұрын

Swim for the joy!

@hillaryd.t.gillings8567 21 сағат бұрын

I did not know she had gone through all of this. I had sensed it though, I am black. Keep up the good work!

@cath1409 Жыл бұрын

thank you for sharing simone’s story 💙

@drpepperr 7 сағат бұрын

Swimming was a big part of my young life. Simone Manuel's story was a curiosity to me. Thank you for this revealing piece. Opportunity and a platform to inspire, Simone? You're inspiring me!

@marciasteele8230 5 ай бұрын

You inspire! You are amazing and humble. Swimming for me is life!

@daviabraxton3099 3 ай бұрын

Love you. Simone ❤you are 👏amazing You inspired me❤😂😊

@larryjohnson1191 2 күн бұрын

What you have already accomplished is quite amazing, Appreciate you! I do! Congratulations!

@johnanguyen1 Жыл бұрын

Great video!!! Beautiful family! Keep swimming!

@k.celeste1301 2 күн бұрын

Thank you, Simone! You are much appreciated by many.

@francesdelrosario1193 7 күн бұрын

I enjoyed this story. Simon you are awesome.

@sdavis6438 Жыл бұрын

Enjoyed the piece and love you SImone 😍. Will continue to and look forward to watching you grow and prosper.

@williamokuda8882 7 күн бұрын

A very talented beautiful woman.

@carolynl.crudup9103 Күн бұрын

Beautiful Champion inside and out respect and thanks. She's a phonemal barrier breaker and why I watch and follow swimming looking for her. Praying giving thanks for her and her parents faith and class. Blessings and hope ❤❤❤'s goodness and mercy following.

@anitaedwards4967 Күн бұрын

What a beautiful story about a beautiful woman. God Bless you Simon.

@JoseyTurn17 3 күн бұрын

We are not unique, but wonderfully made in the image of God by His Hands. As He was so are we to be. Joyful 🥰

@calicoesblue4703 2 күн бұрын

Amen🙏💯💯💯

@sisterbrothers1677 Жыл бұрын

Weird in a karmic way, Manuel won the Olympics AND World Championships despite not being the favorite. She always had a beautiful smooth stroke. I think the Stanford girls are generally too intense, they seem merely satisfied with achieving goals, not joyous.

@pam18ram Күн бұрын

Thanks for sharing your story. You are a champion not only in the pool, but in life!👏👏👏

@anger101 Жыл бұрын

incredible.

@virgobutterfly1680 2 күн бұрын

I will be watching Simone in #Paris! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

@jedfrassica7932 Жыл бұрын

Great video

@AminahImani 5 күн бұрын

that was beautiful!

@may_laytrucker3127 2 күн бұрын

Forget everything and go on with your life Simone, you won another clutch 50 2024 going to Paris,I'm sure you still are favorite.!

@defneyil_ Жыл бұрын

She is my hero 💙

@FoodNerds 3 сағат бұрын

Congratulations on all your victories.

@shelleystrong8673 6 күн бұрын

Hard to watch. Too painful. Too familiar (in every career path). Working twice as hard as colleagues to be considered as competent. Just be the queen that you are when you walk in the room. You’re not alone Simone.

@charmainewalker8627 4 күн бұрын

I hope she fired her coach

@dvrjang 3 күн бұрын

youre awesome!! win or lose competing or not.....youre awesome

@rudolfplein 2 күн бұрын

Nice story Simone❤

@2listening1 Жыл бұрын

💛

@angrycannibal6625 3 күн бұрын

We send you clouds to lift you up. Take care of self first!

@MelodiesOfMamaAfrica Жыл бұрын

Hated by some for no other reason but her color. Wonder how it would have been celebrated had Weitzel won gold in 100 free.

@tararansom2750 3 күн бұрын

Same way they treated Biles

@alisonwilks302 2 күн бұрын

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

@jackraglin5526 2 күн бұрын

This is an inspiring story and important video. But overtraining syndrome is not a rare condition and research that I have been involved with shows that it affects up to 1/3 of young competitive athletes and up to 2/3 of elite athletes such as Simone at some points in their careers.

@ronaldareyes9899 Жыл бұрын

👌

@bluebarry44 Жыл бұрын

Perhaps Simone INADVERTANTLY tore down everything around her. I am sure this would never be a conscious endeavor, but if the results are positive... In the end I believe that a happy person is a true success. I hope Simone is happy and gets to enjoy swimming without pressure. If not, fuck it, as long as she lives a happy, joyful life. She shall always be a champion!

@yvettesmith4991 17 сағат бұрын

American to me is just wicked, as long as we are giving 100% they love you! if not, we are lazy but we can never be sick ever. But those complaining cannot bust a grape🤔 that’s a wicked person, period.

@floralizo4147 11 ай бұрын

@D.CANNON3 Күн бұрын

🫶🏾🫂

@lasha4585 3 күн бұрын

Check the history, the Indigenous Black Americans were PEARL DIVERS/EXECLECT SWIMMERS!!! Simone, you're GREAT BUT KNOW THIS, YOU'RE NOT THE FIRST BABY, YOU HAVE ANCESTORS IN THE WATER WITH YOU IN SPIRIT, THEY WERE ALSO THE BEST IN THE WORLD!!! YOU ARE NOT ALONE, SO DON'T TELL YOURSELF THAT!!!!

@weidles 3 күн бұрын

Paris here you come, don't blame anyone for your losses or your wins but yourself, you are responsible for your achievements, win or lose, don't blame it on anyone else, or make it a color thing, you're an American. No excuses give it your all, win or lose, and wishing you the best in Paris. God bless.