The Road to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games: Simone Biles Shines at Qualifying Event, Gabby Douglas Withdraws

Over the weekend, Olympic medalist Simone Biles kicked off her journey to join her team at the 2024 Paris Olympics with an impressive win at the Core Hydration Classic. While the event highlighted Biles’ determination to regain her spot at the top, it also marked an emotional moment for Gabby Douglas, who withdrew from the competition.

Biles dominated the competition with her signature combination of creativity, precision, and strength. Her routines on the beam, floor, and vault were standout performances that earned her top scores from the judges. Biles scored an outstanding 14.550 on the balance beam, where she holds the title of reigning world champion.

14.55 for Simone Biles with this beam set! #CoreClassic pic.twitter.com/BdU03p8MCO

— Gymnastics Now (@Gymnastics_Now) May 18, 2024

“I was just happy to be back out there,” Biles said. “As long as we’re there cheering each other on and hoping for the best and having confidence in each other’s gymnastics, then it’s going to work.”

Additionally, Biles executed her signature move on the floor exercise, the triple-twisting double salto, a skill she has not showcased since the 2020 Tokyo Olympics qualifying round. She also received the highest score of the night, a 15.600.

Here’s @Simone_Biles’ new floor routine. Triple Double first pass👑🔥🔥 #CoreClassic pic.twitter.com/DxiDvw1bgy

— MaryK Myal (@MaryKMyal) May 18, 2024

However, not every competitor had success at the event. Three-time Olympic medalist Gabby Douglas withdrew from the competition after struggling with the uneven bars. Despite performing a clean routine in warmups, Douglas fell twice, resulting in a 10.100 score. Unfortunately, the withdrawal means that Douglas will not qualify for the all-around at the U.S. Championship.

Saturday’s competition was the final chance for qualification at the U.S. Championship set to take place later this month. Although Biles and her fellow champions previously secured their spots in Fort Worth, this competition was crucial for forming the five-member team for the Paris Olympics. As for Douglas, the 28-year-old will have to petition to compete in all four events at the championship.