Without their greatest asset, the Americans had to leave the gold in the Nations Cup to Russia. Biles won four gold medals at the previous Games in Rio de Janeiro, including in the all-around. She had set herself the goal of taking six titles in Tokyo.
After the qualifiers, in which she had set the highest score, Biles already announced that she was suffering from the pressure. “I really feel like I have the weight of the whole world on my shoulders right now. I wipe it off and pretend it doesn’t affect me, but damn, sometimes it’s tough. The Olympics are no joke.”
Simone Biles and her American teammates had to settle for silver.
Ⓒ HH/ANP
According to the American Gymnastics Federation, every day is checked whether Biles is able to participate in the apparatus finals in Tokyo next week. “We support Simone’s decision and applaud her courage to put her well-being first. Her bravery once again demonstrates why she is a role model for so many,” said USA Gymnastics.
Biles’ place in the all-around final is taken over by compatriot Jade Carey, who had set the ninth score in qualifying. Since a maximum of two gymnasts per country can participate in the final, Carey had lost weight. Lieke Wevers is the first reserve for the final with 24 gymnasts, Eythora Thorsdottir the second.
demons
The demons in her head were apparently back on Tuesday, although the four-time Olympic champion posted a video clip a few hours before the team final, in which she can be seen in a leotard in front of the mirror. Her dream of achieving six golds in Tokyo will not come true due to the silver in the team competition.
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