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The 2024 Paris Olympics witnessed an unprecedented setback for the United States in women's gymnastics, as neither Simone Biles nor Suni Lee managed to secure a podium finish on the balance beam. This marked the first time since the 2000 Sydney Olympics that the US failed to medal in the event.Biles, a three-time Olympian, had hoped to redeem herself on the beam after winning bronze in both Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020. However, she suffered a major setback when she fell during her acrobatic series, ending her streak of consecutive Olympic medals in the event.Lee, who had won bronze on the uneven bars earlier in the competition, also faced disappointment on the beam. She stumbled and fell during a flip, landing awkwardly and eventually falling off the beam. Despite completing her routine, she was visibly upset with her performance.Italy's Alice D'Amato emerged as the surprise gold medalist with a score of 14.366, marking her country's first beam gold and her first individual Olympic medal. China's Yaqin Zhou earned silver, while Italy's Manila Esposito took bronze.D'Amato's clean routine stood out among the finalists, four of whom, including Biles and Lee, fell during their performances. Lee expressed her disappointment but remained optimistic, stating, "I just need to go and do the work and put all the effort in and maybe one day you'll have it."The absence of Biles and Lee on the balance beam podium was a significant upset, highlighting the challenges and pressure faced by elite athletes at the highest level of competition. Despite their setbacks, both athletes demonstrated resilience and determination, vowing to return stronger in future competitions.

Suni Lee's Olympic journey has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and challenges. After winning the all-around gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games, she faced intense scrutiny and online harassment. Amidst this, she was diagnosed with two incurable kidney diseases in 2023, forcing her to withdraw from college and halt her gymnastics training.The diagnosis was a devastating blow to Lee, who feared her gymnastics career was over. However, with the support of her family and coaches, she returned to the gym in early 2024. Despite the lingering effects of her kidney disease, Lee persevered, determined to prove herself once again.On Tuesday, Lee made a triumphant comeback at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Competing in three rotations, she helped Team USA secure the gold medal. Her performance was a testament to her resilience and unwavering spirit.Lee's journey is an inspiration to anyone facing adversity. She has shown that with determination and support, it is possible to overcome challenges and achieve one's dreams. Her story is a reminder that even in the face of setbacks, hope and perseverance can prevail.