At the 2023 U.S. Classic in Chicago Olympian Simone Biles the most decorated gymnast in the world—made her comeback to the competitive world for the first time since the 2020 Olympics. And as if she had never taken a step back from the sport, the 26-year-old finished first in the all-around, vault, floor routine and balance beam. She placed third on the uneven bars.
“Everyone that was cheering, made posters and all of that in the crowd, it just made my heart melt that they still believe in me,” she gushed to NBC Sports after the competition. “I’m very shocked.”
Back in 2021, she had withdrawn from several finals at the Tokyo Games, citing mental health concerns and a case of the “twisties,” or mid-air disorientation, before making a comeback and winning a bronze medal in the balance beam final.
However, in June, after two year away her return was announced. Her reemergence for the event is especially significant as it marks the last chance for athletes to qualify for the national championships in San Jose, Calif. later this month.Ahead of Saturday’s competition, her coaches Cecile Canqueteau-Landi and Laurent Landi told Sports Illustrated that Biles was in a good place mentally and physically. “We wouldn’t be here if she had any hesitations,” Canqueteau-Landi said. “It’s her will to be here. We’re supportive.
Indeed, all signs point in that direction. Ahead of the U.S. Classic, she took to Instagram Stories Aug. 3 to show a red, white, blue, silver and gold balloon display with an Olympic rings-themed sign that read, “Welcome to NOW Arena. The journey to Paris 2024 starts here
Source: News365
In other news – WATCH: Somizi’s weight gain cost him
Popular South African media personality, television presenter, actor, choreographer, and socialite, Somizi Mhlongo is set to donate his clothes after a weight gain. The Idols SA judge is one man who has managed to keep his weight in control over the years.
It, however, seemed as if Somizi was set to lose the battle with weight management. He shared this on his Instagram. Trying to wear his clothes, but he could not manage to do it. Read more
