Simone Biles Makes History with Gold
Simone Biles has once again made history, winning the all-around final at the Paris Olympics and securing her ninth gold medal. She held off fierce competitor Rebeca Andrade of Brazil to solidify her status as the only American gymnast to win gold in the all-around final more than once.
The margin of victory Biles’ had over Andrade was narrow, equivalent to a fall, but with the late decision to bring out her “Biles II” vault, Simone was able to secure a gold medal.
Biles commented, “I don’t want to compete with Rebeca no more. She’s way too close. I’ve never had an athlete that close, so it definitely put me on my toes and brought out the best athlete in myself.”
Teammate Sunisa Lee also had a standout performance, clinching the bronze and earning her second consecutive all-around medal. After a kidney disease threatened her Olympic comeback, Lee didn’t expect to be standing on an Olympic podium ever again.
“I didn’t think that I could, but it is taken a lot. I’m so grateful that I had my coaches and, you know, having Simone here today definitely helped me a lot because we were both freaking out.” Lee said.
Both Biles and Lee admitted to feeling the pressure, especially with Andrade’s strong performance. Biles took a moment to thank her coaches and her therapist, who she has been maintaining virtual contact with to ensure she stays mentally prepared for the high-stakes competition.
Simone Biles has now won the following medals in Paris:
- GOLD: Women’s Artistic Team All-Around
- GOLD: Women’s Artistic Individual All-Around
- GOLD: Women’s Vault – Artistic Gymnastics
- SILVER: Women’s Floor – Artistic Gymnastics
Biles is now tied for the second most Olympic career medals by a female gymnast, with a total of 11.