Suni Lee’s achievement in the 2024 Paris Olympics stands out even more in light of her past triumphs. Having already secured the all-around gold in Tokyo—a coveted Olympic title—Lee’s recent performances, including a bronze on uneven bars, have taken on added significance.
“I’m really proud of myself. This time around, it’s just been so much more amazing,” Lee shared. “I know I keep saying ‘amazing,’ and it’s probably really annoying, but that’s all the words I have because it’s just amazing. It’s so much fun and I’m so happy with all of my performances.”
Despite winning gold in Tokyo, Lee faced mixed emotions as she left Japan. Critics, fueled by online trolls, questioned the legitimacy of her victory, suggesting she won by default after Simone Biles withdrew from the final due to “the twisties,” and Rebeca Andrade faltered in the floor exercise.
Lee was particularly disheartened by her performance on bars, her signature event. Although she secured a bronze, she was frustrated by mistakes she felt marred her routine. “I told myself I was coming back to redeem myself on bars,” Lee said. “I really wanted to just put a good, clean routine together.”
In Paris, Lee delivered exactly that in a highly competitive bars final, featuring top-tier gymnasts including the Tokyo gold medalist, the reigning world champion, and the current European champion. Jess Graba, Lee’s longtime coach, called it “probably the best bars final I’ve seen in a long time.”
Nina Derwael, the Tokyo champion, set a high bar with a dazzling routine, though a minor landing error cost her the top spot. Qiu Qiyuan, the world champion, and Kaylia Nemour, last year’s silver medalist, performed with extraordinary skill. Nemour’s routine, particularly difficult, earned her a 15.7, securing gold and silver for her and Qiyuan.
Faced with these performances, Lee knew she had to deliver her best. Her routine, the hardest she had attempted this year, earned her a score of 14.8, placing her in third. “I watched everyone go up there and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh. I have to have the best routine of my life.’ And that’s what I did!” Lee exclaimed.
Graba, reflecting on the outcome, expressed a sense of relief. Despite already being an Olympic champion, Lee’s return to competition, especially after battling kidney issues that disrupted her last season, was a risk. “She had everything to lose coming back,” Graba noted. “There was nothing really for her to prove, except to herself. I wanted her to feel proud, and that’s what she had today.”
Lee’s performance in Paris not only highlights her resilience and skill but also underscores her personal journey and dedication to the sport.