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Despite Scoring Higher Than Simone Biles’ in First Event, Suni Lee Forced to Sit Out of Events Due to Health Issues at US Classic 2023

Published 08/05/2023, 11:00 PM EDT

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The US Core Hydration Classics are currently underway and have already made a great splash among the fandom. As the buzz built with some exceptional performances, the gymnastics arena witnessed brilliance, with Suni Lee’s performance shining the brightest. Despite battling kidney issues, she delivered an awe-inspiring routine. Lee earned a remarkable 14.5 score in the 2023 Core Hydration Classic Senior women’s first round. Surpassing even the gymnastics GOAT Simone Biles, Lee proved her mettle.

However, her health took precedence, forcing her to withdraw from the remaining events. But that doesn’t mean she is out of the championship.

Suni Lee’s exceptional performance despite health challenges

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On Twitter, a 13-second video showcased the perfection of Suni Lee’s routine – arms straight, hips open, and a vertical landing. “Suni Lee scores a 14.5 on beam and a 13.5 on vault at the US Classic, then calls it a night,” the caption read. This outstanding score secures her spot in the national championships that will happen later this month. However, despite surpassing the 7X Olympic gold medalist, Simone Biles, Lee chose to back out due to her ongoing kidney issue.

Back in February, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic gymnastics all-around gold medalist felt better than ever, mentioning her peak physical condition and excitement over new skills. Unfortunately, a kidney-related health problem emerged, forcing her to end her Auburn University season prematurely. For the past five months, Lee has been on the challenging journey of recovery and training. Today, with teary eyes, her performance at the meet showcased her incredible potential and determination. It resulted in a much-coveted prize for her.

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Lee secures her Championship ticket

Lee secured her Championship ticket at the U.S. Classic on August 5. According to Opelika Auburn News, she expressed delight in her performance in an interview with CNBC. With renewed confidence, Lee anticipates the upcoming U.S. Championship in San Jose, California. The event, to be held between Aug. 24-27, is a crucial event leading to the 2024 Paris Olympics. During the Classic, viewers witnessed Lee radiating with a smile and embracing her coach Jess Graba.

Read More: “Mentally I Could Be Better”: US Olympic Gymnast Suni Lee Gives Fans Bleak Update on Her Condition

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Having earned a solid 14.500 on the beam and a safe Yurchenko full-on vault, Lee achieved a qualifying score of 26.400 over two events. Regrettably, she chose to skip the bars. The return of both Lee and Biles added further excitement to the U.S. Classics in Chicago. Now, all eyes are on Lee as she prepares to shine on the big stage in the Championship and the impending Olympics.

Watch This Story: Simone Biles Made a Heartwarming Gesture to Suni Lee’s Dad 

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Written by:

Gincy Abraham

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Gincy Abraham, an accomplished sports news writer at EssentiallySports, has a profound passion for surfing and a talent for covering the latest developments in sports. With expertise in Olympic news, Gincy captures the essence of the global sporting event. With a bachelor's degree in journalism and years of experience as a news reporter, Gincy is always in pursuit to deliver accurate content religiously.
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Edited by:

Purva Jain