Aug 3, 2021 - Sports
Simone Biles wins Olympic bronze in individual balance beam final
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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
Go deeper: Simone Biles lauded for "bravery in prioritizing" mental wellness
