Three Years After Backing Simone Biles Exit, US Gymnast Gives Two Cents on Her Paris Olympics Berth

The 2024 Paris Olympics are scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11. This year, Simone Biles, Gabby Douglas, and Sunisa Lee are aiming to secure their places. However, amid this excitement, a notable gold medalist from the 2008 Beijing Olympics has something to say about this team. In 2010, she even founded The Nastia Liukin Cup aimed at showcasing USA Gymnastics’ Women’s Development.

Furthermore, she consistently stands as a steadfast supporter of gymnastics and its female athletes as it was seen in 2021. After Simone Biles took a break from gymnastics in 2021 citing mental health reasons, Nastia Liukin stood by her side in support. However, Liukin recently engaged in conversation with E! News at the Gold Meets Golden event on March 9, where she provided insights into the USA’s preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Nastia Liukin’s insights on Team USA hopefuls for Paris 2024 including Simone Biles

Nastia Liukin recently offered her perspective on the Team USA hopefuls preparing for the Paris 2024 Olympics. She remarked, “They are really well-trained.” However, she also emphasized that the greatest challenge lies in the mental aspect  which is major issue in gymnastics. She also stressed to stay true to oneself amidst the pressures of competition. “As long as you feel like you’re being the best version of you,” Liukin shared, “that’s the most important thing.”

It’s noteworthy that Nastia Liukin has been supporting Biles throughout her career. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, when Biles took a break due to the “twisties,” Liukin publicly expressed, “Thank you for showing the depth of who you are beyond an athlete as a leader, role model, mental health warrior, and person.” Liukin also thanked Biles, “for creating a safer space for current and future athletes to unequivocally be themselves.” However, as a former gymnast, she has one more piece of advice for Team USA.

Nastia Liukin’s timeless advice for Team USA

Liukin emphasized the importance of being present and savoring every moment. Reflecting on her own Olympic journey, she confessed to experiencing homesickness and regrets about not fully embracing the fleeting moments of competition. She says, “Try to be present and be in the moment.”

Liukin’s message resonates with a sense of urgency, urging her fellow athletes to cherish the journey as much as the destination. Drawing from her personal experience, she advocates for the practice of keeping a detailed journal, highlighting its role as a timeless treasure trove of memories. However, it will be interesting to see if the USA once again dominates on the global stage.

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