Piers Morgan has spoken out against Simone Biles pulling out of the Olympics, saying "mental health issues" are a "go-to excuse for poor performance".
On Tuesday star gymnast Biles pulled out of the women's artistic gymnastics final just moments after the worst vault performance in her career.
She later cited mental health concerns, saying she needs to focus on her own wellbeing.
"We have to protect our body and our mind. It's very unfortunate this has to happen at this stage... it just sucks when you're fighting with your own head."
The controversial British commentator spoke out on Twitter, asking whether mental health issues are "the go-to excuse for poor performance in elite sport?"
"What a joke. Just admit you did badly, made mistakes, and will strive to do better next time."
He added that "kids need strong role models not this nonsense."
Comments on the tweet blasted Morgan for his lack of compassion, saying it was "unbelievable" he would criticise Biles for being honest about her struggles.
"Don't dismiss mental health as weakness Piers, it's a terrible colour on you".
Others mocked the irony of Morgan telling Biles to toughen up, when he walked off the set of Good Morning Britain after receiving mild criticism from a co-host.
In March Alex Beresford critiqued Morgan for the way he treats Meghan Markle, saying the Duchess was within her rights to cut Morgan out of her life, given how he speaks about her.
"Okay, I'm done with this, sorry can't do it, see you later," Morgan announced as he walked off the set.
It's not the first time Morgan has attacked young female athletes. He also criticised Naomi Osaka for withdrawing from the Grand Slam for similar reasons, calling her an "arrogant spoiled brat" and "world sport's most petulant little madam".
