Simone Biles, determined to rewrite her Olympic story, tweaked her calf during a qualifier but still dominated at the Paris Olympics 2024.
The scene brought back memories of the Tokyo Olympics, where Biles withdrew from multiple events due to mental health concerns.
However, this time, the issue was physical but common among gymnasts.
During her warm-up on the floor exercise, Biles suffered a minor calf injury. Despite this, she posted the top score in the all-around, finishing at 59.566, ahead of reigning Olympic champion and teammate Sunisa Lee. Biles, with her leg heavily taped, walked with a noticeable limp but performed exceptionally well on the competition floor.
U.S. coach Cecile Landi described the injury as minor, with no consideration of Biles pulling out. Landi and her husband Laurent, who have long coached Biles, encouraged her to continue, applying heavy doses of tape to her leg.
Biles went on to score highest on floor and vault, even after the injury, adding to her impressive career total of seven Olympic medals.
Biles opted not to attempt a unique skill on the uneven bars that she had submitted to the International Gymnastics Federation. However, she may still perform it during the team final, which could see it added to the sport’s Code of Points with her name.
The U.S. team, heavily favored and seeking redemption after finishing second to Russia three years ago, scored 172.296, more than five points ahead of Italy.
Biles, Lee, and Jordan Chiles went 1-2-3 in the all-around during qualifying, though Chiles will miss the all-around final due to rules limiting countries to two athletes per competition.
Despite the injury, Biles’ leg improved as she progressed through the events, and Landi expects her to be available for upcoming finals.
The Americans, especially with Russia out due to the war in Ukraine, do not rely on her as heavily as in previous Games.
The stands at Bercy Arena were buzzing with celebrities and athletes eager to watch Biles perform.
Stars like Tom Cruise, Snoop Dogg, Ariana Grande, Jessica Chastain, John Legend, and Anna Wintour were in attendance. LeBron James and the U.S. men’s basketball team, busy with Olympic qualifying, also expressed interest in catching Biles’ performance later in the week.
Simone Biles remains the face of the U.S. Olympic movement, with NBC heavily promoting her return to the Games.
Her ability to overcome physical and mental challenges continues to inspire athletes and fans alike, as she aims for a golden send-off, one step at a time.
