Two steps out of the area cost Simone Biles an eighth Olympic gold medal as Rebecca Andrade edged out the Team USA superstar to take her fourth podium and first gold of the Paris Games for Brazil in the women’s floor final.
There was drama until the last in the decider, where a judging review after the final scores had been read out secured bronze for Jordan Chiles, who celebrated in tears with team-mate Biles.
“It is a surprise but Biles stepped out of the floor twice,” said 2012 Olympic gymnastics bronze medallist Beth Tweddle, speaking to BBC Sport.
“That’s what’s caused her to come in second – she did all the skills. She just had too much power and stepped out twice. Simone has said how much Andrade has been pushing her, and today she took the title. It was just genuinely those two steps out.”
Simone Biles scores 14.133 but it’s not enough to take top spot in the floor final.
Brazil’s Rebeca Andrade leads with just two gymnasts to go. #BBCOlympics #Olympics #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/tBG5eZ1VJS
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) August 5, 2024
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Olympics: Women’s floor final results
Andrade became Brazil’s most successful Olympian, while Chiles took her first ever medal for an individual Games event.
At 27 and with 11 Olympic medals in total since 2016, Biles has not confirmed whether she will return for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
“It’s whether you personally are enjoying it and want it,” said Tweddle. “It’s not an easy thing to do: you’re training for 30-plus hours a week and you’ve got to have that motivation.
“What a Games that would be, to compete in front of your home crowd. But it’s a lot of work. She has said never say never; she’s not announced her retirement or anything, so who knows?”
The look on Rebeca Andrade’s face says it all.. she’s beaten the great Simone Biles to take gold in the women’s floor for Brazil! 🥇#BBCOlympics #Olympics #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/PsVRs2w2t4
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) August 5, 2024
Simone Biles: 2024 swansong?
Earlier on Monday, Biles fell on her way to finishing fifth in the balance beam, looking frustrated as she spoke with her coach and exited to prepare for the floor final.
NFL icon Tom Brady was pictured gaping in astonishment during Biles’ routine as he joined the Team USA fans at the Bercy Arena to watch her secure silver.
“What she’s achieved in our sport [is] not only the medals,” reflected Tweddle. “It’s the constant of pushing the boundaries, creating new elements, creating belief that those elements can be created.
“The way she is with other gymnasts is not all just about her, it’s about that team spirit as well. She’ll be remembered for years and years to come in our sport.”
