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Legendary American gymnast, Simone Biles, is set to make a triumphant return to where her meteoric rise in gymnastics began. Biles is gearing up to lead the US team at the 2023 world championships scheduled to take place in Belgium in early October.
This championship will mark Biles' sixth appearance, a record-breaking feat for an American woman in the event. Joining her are three of her teammates from the 2022 world championship-winning squad — Shilese Jones, Leanne Wong, and Skye Blakely. The team will also welcome the talented 17-year-old, Joscelyn Roberson.
The event holds a special place in Biles' heart as it's the very arena in Antwerp where she clinched the first of her five world all-around titles as a promising 16-year-old. Now, a decade later, she has her sights set on etching her name as the most decorated gymnast in history.
With a tally of seven Olympic medals — including the prized 2016 Olympic title — and an impressive 25 world championship medals (19 of which are gold), Biles is currently tied with Soviet Union's Larisa Latynina. Both have a total of 32 medals from the sport's two premier events. As Biles returns to Antwerp, fans eagerly anticipate her breaking this tie and setting a new record.
Following the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which saw her grappling with a mental challenge known as "the twisties," Biles made an awe-inspiring comeback. Her prowess was evident when she clinched her eighth national title in San Jose, right after her mesmerizing performance at the US Classic in Chicago.
However, the journey isn't without its bumps. During a recent selection camp in Houston, Biles faced a few challenges, including a fall on the uneven bars and over-rotating her signature move. But, demonstrating her champion spirit, she bounced back with a stronger performance the next day.
"Yesterday was a rough day but it's better now (than to) get it out over there (at worlds)," she said.
"Today's two-event was obviously a lot better getting the nerves out. I feel like everybody was nervous yesterday, not just me and I don't know why," she added.
Given her unparalleled track record and indomitable spirit, the world will keenly watch Biles as she aims to make history once again at the upcoming world championships.
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