Gymnastics Star Simone Biles Makes History with Yurchenko Double Pike Vault
Gymnastics superstar Simone Biles has once again made history, becoming the first woman to successfully land the Yurchenko double pike vault at an international competition. This incredible feat means that the extremely difficult vault will now be named after her. Here’s everything you need to know about this groundbreaking achievement.
Biles accomplished this remarkable feat during the qualifying round of the 2023 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Antwerp, Belgium. This competition marks her first international meet since the Tokyo Olympics, where she took home a team silver medal and a bronze on the balance beam. Biles’ return to the sport was highly anticipated, as she had taken a hiatus following the Olympics due to struggles with “the twisties,” a term used by gymnasts to describe a sudden loss of air awareness while performing twisting skills.
The Yurchenko double pike vault is currently considered the most challenging vault in women’s gymnastics. With this groundbreaking achievement, it will now be officially named the “Biles II” in the gymnastics rule book. This is not the first time Biles has had elements named after her. She already has five gymnastics elements named after her across vault, floor exercise, and the balance beam, solidifying her status as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time.
In addition to Biles’ historic achievement, the U.S. women’s gymnastics team finished in first place during the qualifying session of the championships. With their sights set on gold, they will compete in the team final on Wednesday.
Biles’ return to competition was met with excitement and anticipation from fans and fellow athletes alike. Her performance at the U.S. Classic in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, on August 5 marked her first meet since the Olympics. She went on to win a record eighth national all-around title at the U.S. Gymnastics Championships later that month, where she also executed the Yurchenko double pike vault.
Reflecting on her definition of success, Biles shared, “I think what success means to me is a little bit different than before because before everyone defined success for me, even if I had my own narrative that I wanted. So, now, it’s just showing up, being in a good head place, having fun out there, and whatever happens, happens.” Her resilience and determination to redefine success on her own terms have been an inspiration to athletes worldwide.
As Biles continues to make history and push the boundaries of what is possible in gymnastics, her impact on the sport cannot be overstated. Her achievements serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence. By naming the Yurchenko double pike vault after her, the gymnastics community recognizes her unparalleled skill and contributions to the sport.
In conclusion, Simone Biles has once again made history by becoming the first woman to successfully land the Yurchenko double pike vault at an international competition. This remarkable achievement has led to the vault being named after her in the gymnastics rule book. Biles’ return to competition after struggling with “the twisties” has been met with admiration and support from fans worldwide. Her resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to athletes everywhere, and her impact on the sport of gymnastics will be felt for generations to come.