Suni Lee reveals what made her fall off balance beam and lose gymnastics medal at Paris Olympics
PARIS, FRANCE: Suni Lee faced a devastating moment at the 2024 Paris Olympics when she fell off the balance beam, shattering her hopes of securing a third medal at this summer's Games.
The USA gymnast blamed the silent atmosphere at the games on Monday, August 5 for her disastrous fall, according to Daily Mail.
Simone Biles consoles Suni Lee after she falls from balance beam at Olympics
Having already claimed two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics, Suni Lee's unexpected mishap has significantly dented her chances of another podium finish.
Following the fall, teammate Simone Biles was seen consoling Lee. Biles, who has also competed impressively at these Games, offered support and encouragement to the 21-year-old's spirits before she competed in the same event later that morning.
Suni Lee's disappointing end to her Olympics
Suni Lee's routine scored 13.100, resulting in her missing out on a medal in the balance beam final.
This led to her disappointing conclusion at the Paris Olympics after securing bronze medals in the all-around and uneven bar events and a gold medal in the team's final.
Simon Biles fails her balance beam routine
In an unexpected turn of events, Simone Biles also experienced difficulties during her balance beam routine after already winning three golds in Paris.
The 27-year-old briefly lost her footing and received the same score of 13.100, missing out on a medal.
This marks the first time the US gymnast has not made it onto the podium at the Paris Olympics.
Suni Lee says she's 'so sad' about her beam routine
While fans were surprised by Simone Biles' shortcomings, they were particularly devastated for Suni Lee, whose excellent performance potential shot at securing gold ended in disappointment.
Despite the setback, Lee expressed that she gave her best at the event.
"I'm so sad about my beam routine. But I gave it my all, so that's ok," said Lee.
She further suggested that the tense atmosphere in Bercy Arena may have contributed to her fall. She admitted that the silence during the competition added to the pressure.
"I feel like it was the pressure, the atmosphere. It was really silent when you get up there," Lee continued. "I could literally hear myself breathing."