Over the weekend, Olympic medalist Simone Biles began her quest to join the 2024 Paris Olympics team with an impressive victory at the Core Hydration Classic.
The event showcased Biles’ determination to reclaim her top spot but was also poignant as Gabby Douglas withdrew from the competition.
14.55 for Simone Biles with this beam set! #CoreClassic pic.twitter.com/BdU03p8MCO
— Gymnastics Now (@Gymnastics_Now) May 18, 2024
Her routines on the beam, floor, and vault were exceptional, earning her the highest scores from the judges. She achieved an incredible 14.550 on the balance beam, where she is the reigning world champion.
“I was just happy to be back out there,” Biles said. “As long as we’re there cheering each other on and hoping for the best and having confidence in each other’s gymnastics, then it’s going to work.”
Additionally, Biles performed her signature move on the floor exercise, the triple-twisting double salto, which she hasn’t showcased since the 2020 Tokyo Olympics qualifying round. She also earned the highest score of the night, an impressive 15.600.
Here’s @Simone_Biles’ new floor routine. Triple Double first pass???????????? #CoreClassic pic.twitter.com/DxiDvw1bgy
— MaryK Myal (@MaryKMyal) May 18, 2024
Gabby Douglas Withdraws
However, not everyone found success at the event. Three-time Olympic medalist Gabby Douglas withdrew from the competition after struggling on the uneven bars.
Despite a flawless routine during warmups, Douglas fell twice during her performance, scoring 10.100. This withdrawal means Douglas will not qualify for the all-around at the U.S. Championship.
Saturday’s competition was the final opportunity for qualification for the U.S. Championship later this month. While Biles and her fellow champions had already secured their spots in Fort Worth, this event was essential for determining the five-member team for the Paris Olympics.
As for Douglas, the 28-year-old will need to petition to compete in all four events at the championship.
Simone Biles won the all-around gold at the U.S. Classic, a key Olympic qualifying event. Gabby Douglas withdrew from the competition – her return to action eight years after she last competed. pic.twitter.com/vbqyWVnm33
— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) May 20, 2024
and
She was possibly the greatest gymnast of her generation. She had one off day on the same day Gabby Douglas had her best day. Lesson: Always bring your A Game. pic.twitter.com/EzvSaFkGAt https://t.co/oNG9xnLrpJ
— James Jones (@jamesjonesesq) May 13, 2024
and
Congratulations to Gabby Douglas for returning and attempting! So proud and hope to maybe see you soon!????????♀️????#CoreClassic pic.twitter.com/slye2cKk7G
— ???? Zahra ???? (@Zahrugh) May 18, 2024
