The 2016 Olympic all-around champion is set to compete for the first time since Tokyo 2020 on Saturday (5 August).
Seven-time Olympic gymnastics medallist Simone Biles showed total readiness for her return to competition on Friday (4 August 2023) during the official practice at the 2023 U.S. Classic in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, a northwestern suburb of Chicago.
Biles, 26, is competing for the first time since the Tokyo 2020 Games, where she withdrew to prioritise her her mental health while dealing with what gymnasts call the ‘twisties’ – a condition where the body and mind fall out of sync.
Earlier in the week, the 2016 Olympic all-around winner shared on social media that while bars had typically been the most difficult event for her to recover after time away from the sport, this time the American says it’s been about twisting.
“Mainly because when the twisties happen, you go right into the gym and work on it…,” Biles said during an Instagram story Q&A. “I took over a year off and then came back, so I was petrified. But I’m fine. I’m twisting again. No worries. All is good.”
Better than good – Biles looked to once again be the world’s best.
She began her training session on the uneven bars, where she performed a Weiler half, Maloney, giant full pirouette, piked Tkatchev to Pak salto sequence. Her routine concluded with a Maloney-half and toe-on full pirouette to full-twisting double back dismount.
Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast of all time, made a powerful statement during the official practice session at the 2023 U.S. Classic. After a two-year hiatus from competitive gymnastics, Biles returned with unmatched precision, skill, and confidence, leaving fans and experts in awe. Her flawless execution and breathtaking moves reaffirmed why she is considered the greatest gymnast of all time.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into her official practice session, breaking down her routines, skills, and what this means for her comeback.
Simone Biles’ Comeback: A Moment the Gymnastics World Has Been Waiting For
Simone Biles last competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she courageously prioritized her mental health. Since then, fans have eagerly awaited her return, and her official practice at the 2023 U.S. Classic proved that she is back and stronger than ever.
A Powerful Statement Through Practice
Biles didn’t just show up—she dominated. Her routines were packed with high-difficulty elements, proving that she’s ready to reclaim her place at the top.
Breaking Down Simone Biles’ Stunning Performance at the U.S. Classic
Vault: Power and Precision
- Biles executed her signature Yurchenko double pike, a skill so difficult that no other female gymnast has attempted it in competition.
- She landed with remarkable control, showcasing both power and poise.
Uneven Bars: Defying Gravity
- Known as her weakest event, Biles displayed incredible improvements in her bar routine.
- Her transitions were smooth, and her handstands were perfectly aligned.
Balance Beam: A Masterclass in Control
- Biles performed an incredibly difficult routine, including her signature wolf turn and back handspring series.
- Her confidence on the beam was undeniable, a sign that her mental strength has returned.
Floor Exercise: A Performance to Remember
- Her tumbling passes were explosive, featuring sky-high flips and twists.
- Biles’ artistry and energy made the routine both technically perfect and entertaining.
What This Performance Means for Simone Biles’ Future
A Strong Indicator for the 2024 Paris Olympics
- If this practice is any indication, Biles is a top contender for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
- Her routines already display Olympic-level difficulty, making her a favorite to dominate the competition.
Mental Strength and Resilience
- Biles’ return isn’t just about skill—it’s about mental toughness.
- She has been open about her struggles with mental health, and this performance shows she has found balance.
A Message to the Next Generation
- Young gymnasts look up to Biles, and her return proves that setbacks don’t define a career.
- She is inspiring athletes to prioritize both mental and physical health.
Reactions from Fans, Experts, and Fellow Gymnasts
The Gymnastics Community Reacts
- Fellow gymnasts praised her for setting a new standard.
- Coaches and commentators highlighted her incredible execution.
Fans Celebrate the Return of a Legend
- Social media erupted with excitement, with #SimoneBiles trending worldwide.
- Fans expressed their admiration for her resilience and skill.
