Katelyn Ohashi reacts to Simone Biles' emotional podium photograph at World Artistic Gymnastics Championships
Former American artistic gymnast Katelyn Ohashi praised compatriot Simone Biles by saying she was a champion. Biles left no stone unturned as she achieved multiple milestones at the recently concluded World Artistic Gymnastics Championships.
Biles completed 10 years of her career, returned to professional gymnastics after a two-year break, and also became the first American gymnast to represent the country for a sixth time. Biles won four gold medals—in the team, all-around, balance beam, and floor exercise events—and also a silver medal in vault.
The 26-year-old posted a photograph of herself being emotional on the podium after being overwhelmed by the magnitude of her achievements. Katelyn Ohashi shared the story on her Instagram and said Simone Biles was a champion.
"Champ," she captioned the photo and tagged the 26-year-old compatriot.
The 26-year-old American gymnast took a two-year break from the sport during the Tokyo Olympics to focus on her mental health and to spend time with her family.
She also married Jonathan Owens, an NFL star, and returned to competitive gymnastics at the 2023 US Classic championships.
Simone Biles gets another skill named after her
Simone Biles was at her best and made heads turn in awe when she flawlessly attempted and finished the Yurchenko double pike vault. The moves, mostly performed by male gymnasts, are some of the toughest in the sport, and the world took notice when Biles attempted and finished the vault.
The organizers of the World Championship went the extra mile after being amazed by the 26-year-old performance and named the skill Biles II. Simone Biles said she was blessed to have another skill named after her. She also has a floor exercise named after her.
"The first time I got a skill named after me was in this arena & 10 years later I got my 5th skill named… I’m speechless. I’m honored. I’m excited and I’m blessed!" she wrote on Instagram.
She thanked everyone for the support, said she has been doing it out of love for the sport, and added that Antwerp will always hold a special place in her heart.
“World championships!!!!! whew Antwerp will always hold a special place in my heart. doing it for the little girl who fell in love with the sport!!!!!" Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love & support," she added with a heart emoticon.