Simone Biles and Team USA win historic gold in women’s gymnastics at Paris Olympics

Simone Biles and her U.S. women's artistic gymnastics team clinched the gold medal in the team finals at the 2024 Paris Olympics. 

This victory marks Team USA's first medal of the Games and underscores Biles’ remarkable return to competitive gymnastics. 

The team scored 171.296 points, outshining Italy, which earned silver with 165.494 points. Brazil, finishing close behind Italy, secured their first-ever Olympic medal in women's gymnastics, taking home the bronze.

The final took place on Tuesday at Bercy Arena, featuring Biles along with Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey, and Sunisa Lee. This competition was especially significant for Biles, who had to withdraw from the 2020 Olympics due to a mental block, known as "the twisties," which affected her performance. 

Despite concerns over a recent calf injury, Biles performed outstandingly, delivering a high-impact routine on the floor exercise that received a standing ovation. Lee, Chiles, and Carey also contributed crucial scores, with Lee scoring 13.9 and Chiles achieving 13.966 on the floor.

The team’s performance included impressive routines on the vault, uneven bars, and balance beam, maintaining a strong lead throughout the competition. The American squad faced competitors from Italy, China, Brazil, Japan, Canada, Britain, and Romania, demonstrating superior skill and coordination.

This victory adds another gold to Biles’ illustrious career, making her the most decorated American gymnast with eight Olympic medals, surpassing Shannon Miller’s record. 

Biles’ triumphant return and the team’s success continue to solidify their status as the top gymnasts in the world.