Simone Biles and Other Legends on Top List for Suni Lee’s Dream Team for Gymnastics

Suni Lee has returned to the mat, rewriting the playbook on resilience and courage. After previously being diagnosed with two kidney issues that derailed her training and cut her NCAA season short, Lee’s determination never wavered. Her comeback was marked by a silver on the beam at the US Classic and a bronze on the beam at the US Championships this year. But what inspires her?

After finishing second in the all-around, Lee made the US team, where she now stands alongside gymnastics powerhouses, including Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles, and Jade Carey. In a recent post-trial interview, she said, “I’ve been able to train a lot more, and I am just so happy, because I really didn’t think I would be here. To be here is quite incredible.” Her voice echos her journey of redemption and determination, something she acquired from her idols.

Suni Lee, already an Olympic gold medalist from Tokyo 2020, has a clear vision of the gymnasts she admires most. When asked about her dream team a recent interview with Elle, Lee didn’t hesitate to name some of the greatest athletes in gymnastics history. Suni didn’t hesitate to name some of the greatest of all time. At the top of her list is Simone Biles, whom she calls “absolutely incredible” and who is a constant source of inspiration. Lee is inspired by Biles’ unparalleled skills and her ability to push limits of the sport.

Joining Biles on Lee’s dream team is Nastia Liukin, the queen of lines and artistry. The list also includes Aliya Mustafina, Svetlana Khorkina, and Dominique Dawes – each a legend in their own right. Mustafina is fierce and technical, Khorkina’s innovative routines have left a lasting impact on the sport. Dawes is a trailblazer for American gymnasts, bringing elegance and power to her performances. For Lee, these gymnasts represent the pinnacle of excellence and the diverse strengths that have shaped modern gymnastics. Their influence is evident in her performances, as she incorporates elements of their styles into her routines.

As Lee heads to Paris, she reflects on her connections with these icons. Having interacted with Biles and Liukin, she values the guidance they’ve provided. Lee’s admiration for Mustafina, Khorkina, and Dawes further fuels her ambition as she strives to honor their legacy with her performances. This seamless blend of past inspiration and current aspirations sets the stage for her Olympic journey.

Reigning Paris 2024

Suni Lee, the reigning all-around Olympic champion, will be joining Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey, and newcomer Hezly Rivera in Paris. This Olympics marks a comeback for Simone Biles as well, who, after overcoming the “twisties” in Tokyo, will be returning to the beam. Suni Lee, inspired by Biles’ said, “I know that I can do that too.” Furthermore, Chiles joins the team bringing versatility and energy, particularly on bars and floor. While Carey, the Tokyo gold medalist in floor exercise, aims to redeem herself on the vault and defend her title on the floor.

The substitute athletes, including Hezly Rivera, Leanne Wong, and Joscelyn Roberson, play a crucial role in Team USA’s strategy. Rivera, at just 16, is a rising star with great potential. Wong, a four-time world medalist, will attempt the Cheng vault this year. Roberson, the 2023 World team champion, adds significant depth with her recent successes. With this diverse and skilled lineup, Team USA is bound to make a significant impact on the world stage.