Paris, France - Simone Biles' gymnastics skills are so insanely impressive that's all people ever think about. But perhaps her real worth lies in the strength of her incredible spirit.
Sunday, in front of a packed house at Bercy Arena, Biles battled through a lower leg injury to lead the United States to a first-place finish during the women's gymnastics qualifiers at the Paris Olympics.
According to Biles' coach, Cecile Landi, she tweaked her left calf muscle while warming up for the floor exercise. Biles did show a noticeable limp. But after a heavy tape job to her lower leg, Biles eased all concerns by posting the highest scores in the floor as well as the vault.
On the first day of women's gymnastics, the most decorated gymnast of all time appeared bound and determine not to allow history to repeat itself.
During the 2020 Summer Games in Tokyo, mental health concerns forced Biles to withdraw from multiple competitions, including the team finals. On Sunday, Biles finished what she started by displaying great mental and physical toughness - posting an impressive score of 59.566 during qualification. The women's team finished first with 172.296 points, more than five points ahead of Italy.
Team USA has dubbed The Paris Olympics as "The Redemption Tour" after settling for a silver medal in 2020. Tuesday they will try to win gold during Tuesday's team finals. If the women's team can reclaim the gold, it will be their third time over the past four Olympics.
All eyes will be on Simone Biles come Tuesday. With the grit and determination she displayed during her Paris debut, expect Biles to deliver as only she can.
Desmond Purnell
