WASHINGTON — Following American Simone Biles' surprise withdrawal from the women's gymnastics teams final, one of the big questions that remained was whether the six-time Olympic medalist would compete in the individual all-around final on Thursday. USA Gymnastics announced that it won't be the case.
The 24-year-old U.S. star, considered to be the greatest gymnast of all time, huddled with a trainer after landing her vault during the teams final Tuesday. She then exited the competition floor with the team doctor. When she returned, she put on her warm-up suit and it was announced she would exit the team competition.
A short time later, USA Gymnastics said "Simone Biles has withdrawn from the team final competition due to a medical issue. She will be assessed daily to determine medical clearance for future competitions."
However, when Biles was asked by reporters if she would still be competing in the all-around on Thursday, she said she was hoping to still compete then. Hours later, the word came down that she was dropping out of the all-around.
Biles finished first in the qualification round on Sunday. Teammate Suni Lee finished third and also qualified for the all-around. American Jade Carey will replace Biles in the all-around.
Biles also qualified for all four individual event finals later in the Games. Whether she will take part remains to be seen.
The team representing the Russia Olympic Committee surged past the short-handed U.S. to the top of the podium in the team competition, posting a score of 169.258 to win the country’s first Olympic team gold in nearly 30 years.