Simone Biles Shatters Records and Leaves the World in Awe with Unprecedented Gymnastic Triumph
Simone Biles astounds the world, shattering records and amassing an incredible 35 Olympic and world championship medals A true icon in gymnastics, she surpasses all expectations and solidifies her place in history as the most decorated gymnast of all time
Simone Biles continues to shatter records. With tears in her eyes, the 26-year-old received her 27th world all-around medal at the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Antwerp, Belgium, solidifying her status as the most decorated gymnast in history.
"I know it's hard to believe, but I've had something in my eye for the past four hours that I just couldn't get out," Biles shared with the Associated Press on Friday, October 6. This milestone victory marks her as the first female gymnast to secure six all-around world titles. "When I was looking up at the podium, the light really bothered my eye."
However, she acknowledged that it was a significant moment, emphasizing the emotional impact. "Winning my first worlds ten years ago and now being back here, it felt incredibly meaningful," Biles expressed. "It holds great value for me, considering the countless efforts and dedication I have invested to reach this point, to regain my comfort and confidence in competing."
On Friday night, when Biles received her all-around gold medal, she surpassed Soviet Union gymnast Larisa Latynina, who retired in 1966.
"Last night's team finals were an intriguing and unforeseen event! I am immensely proud of the determination displayed by Team USA," shared Biles on her Instagram account on Saturday, October 7. "It is truly a privilege to represent the United States once again at the World Championships!"
Jonathan Owens, Biles' husband whom she married in April, expressed his elation regarding his wife's accomplishments. "I am incredibly proud! Love witnessing your excellence," commented the Green Bay Packers player on Instagram.
The Olympian secured her 28th world medal the following day by winning the silver medal on the vault. She missed out on the gold due to over-rotating and falling on her back while attempting to stick the landing. Before the fall, Biles intentionally incurred a half-point deduction for having her coach on the mat as a safety measure. (During the Tokyo Olympics in 2022, Biles experienced the "twisties" on the vault, which compelled her to withdraw from several events.)
Simone Biles rejoices on the podium following her participation in the Women's Vault Final at the 52nd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships on October 7, 2023. LIONEL BONAVENTURE/AFP via Getty Images
Securing the silver medal elevates Biles' tally to 35 world championship and Olympic medals, a number that is anticipated to increase before the conclusion of the weekend. Despite her fifth-place finish in the uneven bars, which is considered her weakest event, experts anticipate Biles to shine in both the beam and floor finals on Sunday, October 8.
Worlds serves as a milestone on the path to the Olympics. Nevertheless, Biles firmly conveyed in August that she is not currently focusing on the Olympics.
"At this point, I am in a favorable position, but who knows? I don't want to speculate too far into the future," Biles informed reporters after the U.S. Classic. "Every time you get married, people start asking when you'll have a baby. When you participate in Classics, they inquire about the Olympics. Our approach is to prioritize taking it step by step and assess as we progress."
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