Have you been keeping up with Simone Biles lately? If not, you’re missing out on one of the most phenomenal athletes in gymnastics history. Biles is seriously unstoppable.
Biles first made headlines at the 2013 World Championships, and she has been breaking records ever since. With an astonishing 25 World Championship medals—19 of which are gold—she has set a benchmark that no one in history has ever reached. Additionally, she has amassed seven Olympic medals, including four golds from the 2016 Rio Olympics. Her ability to consistently perform at such a high level is nothing short of extraordinary.
Known for doing the seemingly impossible, Biles has executed signature moves like the “Biles” and the “Biles 2” on floor exercise, and the “Biles” on the vault. These moves are so complex that other gymnasts don’t even attempt them. Her return to competitive gymnastics after a break to focus on her mental health has been nothing short of impressive. Far from resting on her laurels, Biles has continued to push herself, integrating even more intricate elements into her routines.
Her focus on mental health has become a beacon of inspiration for athletes everywhere. Biles has managed to balance the mental and physical demands of her sport with remarkable poise and strength. This balance is particularly evident in her recent performances, including her record-setting ninth all-around title at the US Gymnastics Championships. Scoring a total of 119.75, Biles not only clinched the title but also swept every individual event—bars, beam, floor, and vault—demonstrating her dominance across the board.
On the floor exercise, Biles scored a 15.1 despite stepping out of bounds on her first tumbling pass. Her ability to score so highly even with a mistake highlights her exceptional skill level. On the balance beam, she delivered a flawless performance, scoring a 14.8 and making the beam look like flat ground. Her vault, including the “Yurchenko Double Pike” or “Biles 2,” had a minor error but still earned her the highest score of the night. Her bar routine, which included a complex double twisting double somersault dismount, also topped the charts despite a small landing step.
Biles’s new routine showcases not just difficulty but a level of creativity and innovation previously unseen. She has incorporated moves that no one else dares to attempt, presenting a routine that combines artistry with high difficulty. Her performance opens with her signature triple twisting double somersault, followed by a series of intricate dance elements that blend seamlessly into one another.
The advancements in her routines are clear. Biles has taken her already high-level skills and pushed them even further, raising the bar for the sport. This evolution reflects her growth as a gymnast, combining difficulty with artistry and execution.
Biles’s dedication extends beyond her personal achievements. She is a leader and mentor, offering support and encouragement to her teammates, such as Sunisa Lee, during challenging moments. Her influence is profound, and her commitment to mental health has been a source of support for many in the gymnastics community.
Looking ahead to the Paris Olympics, Biles has ambitious goals. She aims to add more Olympic gold medals to her collection and continue challenging herself with new and complex elements. Her focus on maintaining both physical and mental health is a testament to her holistic approach to training.
