Simone Biles has once again proven her dominance in the world of gymnastics by securing her spot on the U.S. Olympic team for the 2024 Paris Games. At 27, Biles is the oldest female American gymnast to make the Olympics since the 1950s. Her victory in Minneapolis on Sunday, with a two-day all-around score of 117.225, placed her more than five points ahead of the competition. Joining her on the team are Jordan Chiles, Sunisa Lee, Jade Carey, and Hezly Rivera.
Reflecting on her journey, Biles said, “I knew I wasn’t done after the performances in Tokyo. Getting back in the gym and trusting the process with Cecile and Laurent, I knew I’d be back.” Her co-coaches, Cecile and Laurent Landi, have been instrumental in her return to form.
Biles’ floor routine at the trials was a highlight, earning her a score of 14.275 and a standing ovation from the crowd. She soared 12 feet above the floor on her first pass, showcasing her incredible athleticism and skill. The routine, which has become a fan favorite, concluded with Biles flashing a bright smile as she soaked in the moment.
This will be Biles’ third Olympic appearance, and she is heavily favored to win her second all-around Olympic gold medal. Her teammates, Chiles, Lee, Carey, and Rivera, are also poised to make significant contributions to the team’s success in Paris.
Suni Lee, who has overcome a kidney disease that once threatened her gymnastics career, expressed her gratitude and excitement after making the team. “I was just reminded of my goals every day and constantly surrounded by people who never let me give up,” she said, choking up with emotion. “I’m so thankful because a year ago, I didn’t even think this was possible.”
Jade Carey described the trials as the most stressful meet of her life but credited her past experiences and support system for helping her succeed. “Those past experiences really helped me, reminded me why I’m doing this sport and where I wanna go,” she said.
Jordan Chiles, who dedicated her performance to her late grandfather and aunt, emphasized the importance of faith and support from her loved ones. “I wouldn’t be where I am right now if it wasn’t for him, if it wasn’t for these amazing ladies, my coaches, my family, my friends,” she said.
Hezly Rivera, the youngest member of the team, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity. “I’ve made a lot of sacrifices to be here, so I’m incredibly grateful forever,” she said.
Biles, often referred to as the “grandma” of the team due to her age, has embraced her role as a mentor. “I’ve been in their exact same spot, I know exactly how they’re feeling and if I can be a mentor and a guide, then that’s what I’m gonna do to lighten the load,” she said.
Despite a fall on the balance beam during the trials, Biles’ overall performance was stellar. She scored 13.900 on the beam, even with the fall, and continued to lead the all-around standings. Her bars routine earned her a score of 14.200, and her Yurchenko double pike vault, a move so difficult that few men attempt it, scored 15.5.
Suni Lee also had notable performances, scoring 14.100 on vault and 13.850 on floor. Her routine on uneven bars, her signature event, earned her a score of 14.875, vaulting her into second place behind Biles.
The trials were not without their challenges. Lee had a rough go on the balance beam, falling on her mount and needing to put her hands down later in the routine. However, Biles was there to offer a pep talk, reminiscent of their supportive dynamic at the U.S. championships.
The final scores from the trials were as follows:
– Vault: Simone Biles (15.500), Jade Carey (14.675), Jordan Chiles (14.500)
– Bars: Sunisa Lee (14.875), Hezly Rivera (14.300), Simone Biles (14.200)
– Beam: Hezly Rivera (14.275), Simone Biles (13.900), Jade Carey (13.625)
– Floor: Simone Biles (14.725), Jordan Chiles (14.100), Suni Lee (13.850)
During a commercial break, Biles showed her appreciation for a 106-year-old World War II veteran in attendance, making a heart sign with her hands as the crowd applauded.
Shilese Jones, who sustained a knee injury in warmups, was present at the trials to support her teammates. Despite her injury, Jones could still be named to the Olympic team, though it seems unlikely given her limited participation in the trials.
Jordan Chiles’ vault on the second night of trials earned her a score of 14.500, further solidifying her place on the team.
As the trials concluded, the women’s Olympic team was officially announced: Simone Biles, Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey, and Hezly Rivera. Joscelyn Roberson and Leanne Wong were named as alternates.
Biles, reflecting on her journey and the importance of mental health, credited her therapist for helping her stay in a good mental spot. “Seeing my therapist every Thursday is kind of religious for me, so that’s why I’m here today,” she said.
The 2024 Paris Olympics will begin with the Opening Ceremony on July 26, with gymnastics competition starting on July 27. The U.S. women’s gymnastics team, led by Biles, is poised to make history once again.
Source: USA TODAY, NBC
