Aug 3, 2021 - Sports

Simone Biles wins Olympic bronze in individual balance beam final

Simone Biles

Photo: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

U.S. gymnast Simone Biles made her Olympic return on Tuesday, winning bronze in the individual balance beam final.

Why it matters: Biles is now tied with Shannon Miller as the most decorated U.S. Olympic gymnast of all time, with seven total medals.

  • It's Biles' only individual medal at this year's Games, having dropped out of the three other event finals — as well as the all-around and team events — to prioritize her mental health.
  • U.S. gymnast Sunisa "Suni" Lee, who won gold in the individual all-around last week, failed to medal on the balance beam. China's Guan Chenchen and Tang Xijing won gold and silver, respectively.

The big picture: Biles, considered the greatest of all time, has won praise from athletes, commentators and fans for putting her mental wellness over all else at these Games.

  • Last week, she thanked her fans and supporters on Twitter, saying: "the outpouring love & support I’ve received has made me realize I’m more than my accomplishments and gymnastics which I never truly believed before. 🤍"
  • Biles received a standing ovation from the other athletes after completing the event.
On the ground
Simone Biles
Photo: Ina Fried / Axios
Simone Biles
Photo: Ina Fried / Axios
Simone Biles
Photo: Ina Fried / Axios
Simone Biles hugs coach
Biles hugs Team USA coach Cecile Canqueteau-Landi after her performance. Photo: Jamie Squire/Getty Images
Simone Biles and Suni Lee
Suni Lee and Simone Biles. Photo: Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Go deeper: Simone Biles lauded for "bravery in prioritizing" mental wellness

Go deeper