Cassidy Hettesheimer is reporting live from Target Center on Sunday night. Read Jeff Day’s final report on the U.S. Olympic women’s gymnastics trials here.
Simone Biles, Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey, and Hezly Rivera were selected for the United States Olympic team in women’s artistic gymnastics on Sunday night at Target Center.
At the age of 27, Biles is heading to her third Olympics.
Lee, a 21-year-old from St. Paul, received a warm applause from the crowd and will be competing at her second Olympics after winning gold in the all-around in Tokyo three years ago.
Chiles, 23, and Carey, 24, will be returning for their second Games in Tokyo.
Rivera, a 16-year-old from New Jersey, is the youngest member of the team and will be making her Olympic debut.
Leanne Wong, 20, and Joscelyn Roberson, 18, will serve as alternates for the team.
Here’s a summary of the night:
9:28 p.m.: Simone Biles Wins Olympic Trials; Suni Lee Second
Simone Biles secured her spot at the Paris Olympics with a remarkable performance on the floor routine, earning a standing ovation from the crowd.
Biles continued to dazzle with a score of 14.725 on the floor, solidifying her position as a dominant force in gymnastics.
Suni Lee showcased her talent with a strong vault performance, earning a score of 14.100 and capturing second place in the all-around standings.
Hezly Rivera impressed with a score of 14.200 on vault, making her case for a spot on the Olympic team.
The crowd showed their appreciation with standing ovations for each gymnast after their routines.
Jordan Chiles and Jade Carey also delivered strong performances, solidifying their spots on the Olympic team.
Carey finished her routine with a score of 14.150, while Joscelyn Roberson matched her previous score on the floor.
Chiles energized the crowd with her performance and ended the night on a high note.
Final All-Around Standings:
1. Simone Biles – 117.225
2. Suni Lee – 111.675
3. Jordan Chiles – 111.425
4. Jade Carey – 111.350
5. Hezly Rivera – 111.150
6. Joscelyn Roberson – 110.975
7. Leanne Wong – 110.425
8. Tiana Sumanasekera – 109.550
9. Kaliya Lincoln – 109.400
8:50 p.m.: More Wobbles on the Beam
Despite some wobbles, Biles and other gymnasts delivered solid performances on the balance beam. Biles left the beam grinning despite a slight stumble at the end.
Her overall score on the beam was impressive, reflecting her skill and experience.
The crowd was also delighted by a special appearance from a 106-year-old World War II veteran who praised Biles.
The competition continued with strong performances from other gymnasts, including Leanne Wong and Tiana Sumanasekera.
Overall, the night showcased the talent and determination of each gymnast vying for a spot on the Olympic team.
The final team selection will be announced after careful deliberation by the officials.
8:10 p.m.: Suni Lee Struggles on the Beam
Lee faced challenges on the balance beam in the second rotation, preventing her from delivering her usual flawless routine.
Biles also encountered difficulties on the beam but managed to recover gracefully, showcasing her resilience and skill.
Other gymnasts, such as Jade Carey, demonstrated strength in other events, highlighting their versatility and determination in the face of challenges.
As the competition progressed, each gymnast showcased their unique strengths and abilities, captivating the audience and judges alike.
The night’s events set the stage for an exciting climax as the officials prepared to announce the final team selection.
All-around Standings after Second Rotation:
1. Simone Biles – 102.500
2. Suni Lee – 97.575
3. Jordan Chiles – 97.325
4. Jade Carey – 97.200
5. Joscelyn Roberson – 97.050
6. Hezly Rivera – 96.950
7. Leanne Wong – 95.925
8. Tiana Sumanasekera – 95.825
9. Kaliya Lincoln – 95.150
