“I think we all had something to prove from Tokyo,” a jubilant Biles said afterward. “And tonight we did just that.”
Biles’ gold marked her 38th career medal between the Olympics and world championships, extending her record as the most decorated gymnast in history.
By then Biles and Co had opened a yawning 3.102 point lead over Italy, nearly the same margin between second and sixth place. The rout was on.
The Russian team, who pipped the US for the gold in Tokyo, were not entered in Sunday’s final. It must be said their absence left the competition wanting for drama.
At last month’s US Olympic trials, Biles had said: “This is definitely our redemption tour. I feel like we all have more to give.”
On a memorable Tuesday afternoon in the 12th arrondissement, their atonement was complete.