Simone Biles has once again proven herself as a legendary gymnast by winning the gold medal in the women’s vault final at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This victory marks her third gold medal in the current games. In the history of the Olympics, Biles is only the second woman to achieve this feat, with her previous vault gold coming in the 2016 Rio Summer Games.
Entering the final with the highest qualifying score, Biles outperformed her competitors with her signature Yurchenko double pike vault, which she landed flawlessly in her first attempt. This challenging vault was even named after her in 2023 when she became the first female gymnast to successfully execute it in international competition. Her second vault, though less difficult, also earned her a high score, resulting in an average score of 15.300 and securing her spot at the top of the podium.
Teammate Jade Carey also had a strong performance, earning the bronze medal with a score of 14.466, while Rebeca Andrade of Brazil claimed the silver with a score of 14.966. Biles’ dominance in the vault event adds to her impressive medal count, making her one of the most decorated gymnasts in history.
Biles’ success in the Paris Olympics did not stop at the vault final. Earlier in the week, she led Team USA to gold in the women’s gymnastics all-around team final, surpassing Shannon Miller to become the American gymnast with the most Olympic medals. She continued her winning streak by clinching her sixth gold medal in the women’s individual all-around with a stunning floor exercise routine.
With her latest victories, Biles joins the ranks of Vera Casalavska of Czechoslovakia as the only women to win the vault event twice. Her total of 10 Olympic medals ties her for the third most by a female gymnast, and she now boasts a total of 40 medals from major international competitions, the highest among all gymnasts.
Simone Biles’ outstanding achievements in gymnastics have solidified her legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time. Her dedication, skill, and unwavering determination continue to inspire fans and aspiring gymnasts around the world.
