Paris Highlights: Simone Biles Shatters Another Record, US Women’s Rugby Achieves Historic Triumph

PARIS, France — Simone Biles and Team USA have reclaimed their status at the pinnacle of women’s gymnastics, achieving a gold medal in the team final on Tuesday at the Bercy Arena. This achievement follows a second-place finish in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Featuring Biles, Sunisa Lee, Jordan Chiles, and Jade Carey, the team executed a performance worthy of their “Redemption Tour” moniker. Their success captivated a crowd filled with notable figures including Nicole Kidman, Natalie Portman, and Serena Williams.

This victory marked Biles’ fifth Olympic gold medal, solidifying her legacy. Additionally, Biles became the most decorated American gymnast, surpassing Shannon Miller with her eighth Olympic medal.

Italy took home the silver medal, while Brazil secured the bronze.

The U.S. swimming team experienced mixed outcomes. Australian Kaylee McKeown triumphed over Regan Smith in the 100-meter backstroke, finishing in 57.33 seconds. Smith managed a silver with a time of 57.66, while Katharine Berkoff added a bronze for the U.S.

In the men’s 800-meter freestyle, Daniel Wiffen of Ireland earned a historic gold, the first for the country since 1996. Defending champion Bobby Finke of the U.S. came in second place. The men’s 4×200 freestyle relay saw Britain retain its title, leaving the U.S. with another silver.

In soccer, the U.S. men’s team ended a 24-year drought by advancing to the knockout stage. They secured their place with a 3-0 win against Guinea in Saint-Etienne. The win included two goals from Kevin Paredes and a free kick by Djordje Mihailovic.

Next, the U.S. will face Morocco in Paris on Friday. The team’s journey has been significant, marking their return to Olympic competition for the first time since 2008 and their best showing since 2000.

Meanwhile, the U.S. women’s rugby sevens team achieved a historic feat by winning their first Olympic medal. Alex Sedrick’s remarkable last-minute try against Australia secured the 14-12 victory. Despite losing to defending champion New Zealand in the semis, the U.S. women rallied to clinch the bronze, igniting cheers among the 60,000-strong crowd at Stade de France.