Simone Biles became the most decorated American gymnast in Olympic history after Team USA won gold in the Women's Artistic Team All-Around in Paris on Tuesday.
The 27-year-old American claimed her eighth Olympic medal , surpassing previous record holder Shannon Miller and becoming Team USA's most successful gymnast at the games. Team USA finished atop the standings with a score of 171.296, followed by Italy in second and Brazil in third.
Biles and Jordan Chiles competed in all four events, while Suni Lee shined on bars, beam, and her floor routine. Jade Carey delivered in the vault as the team completed its "redemption tour" after coming up short and winning silver in Tokyo three years ago. 16-year-old Hezly Rivera did not compete in the final but still contributed to the team and received a medal.
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Biles was the final competitor for the U.S. women's gymnastics team and faced immense pressure and scrutiny as she prepared for her floor routine. Concerned broadcasters underscored her nagging calf injury, adding to the suspense as she sat through a series of routines on the sidelines before it was time to perform.
With her teammates spectating and locking hands in prayer, Biles took deep breaths and approached the floor. The competition watched with bated breath, aware of the decorated Olympian’s potential to deliver a stunning performance despite her physical challenges.
The decorated Olympian began her routine from the corner, a familiar starting point. Her first move saw her step out of bounds, but she continued unfazed. The seasoned gymnast launched her second vault flawlessly, showcasing her skill and resilience. Her dexterity and grace were evident as she spun low to the ground, setting up for her third vault.
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The third vault mirrored her initial struggle, with Biles stepping out of bounds again and rolling her eyes in a brief moment of frustration. However, her determination remained unshaken. Biles executed her fourth vault perfectly, earning a smile and blowing kisses to the crowd, signifying her triumphant return to form.
Her performance was met with overwhelming support from her teammates and the audience. She was pictured excitedly saying, "We ------- did it!!" The U.S. team united in their prayers and hopes, erupted in applause as she completed her routine, particularly Lee, who was heard on a hot mic running up to Biles and discussing which Tiktok trends they should perform following the win.
The Bercy Arena in Paris crowd responded with enthusiastic cheers, acknowledging her perseverance and excellence. This was different from her previous nightmare, plagued by "the twisties" in Japan.
Biles was blighted by the "twisties" in Japan, losing her coordination in the air. She withdrew from the event—and numerous others—following a sketchy landing on the vault. A prolonged break followed to focus on her mental health.
But she returned to competition last year in stunning style and earned her way back onto the Olympic squad with a series of high-class performances. And on the biggest stage, she delivered a mesmeric performance to put the demons of Tokyo to bed.
Former USA swimmer Michael Phelps, who has 28 Olympic medals, including 23 golds, attended the historic event. The official Olympic Games X account acknowledged Biles in a tweet, signaling Team USA's fourth Gold in the event.
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