The first leg of the "redemption tour" is now complete.
The U.S. women's gymnastics team has reclaimed its place atop the Olympic medal podium after securing silver at the Tokyo 2020 Games with a score of 171.296. Italy earned its first Olympic team medal in 96 years with a silver medal, scoring 165.494, while Brazil achieved its inaugural Olympic team medal, taking bronze with 164.497.
Simone Biles has now amassed eight Olympic medals, including five gold, surpassing the legendary Shannon Miller to become the most decorated U.S. Olympic gymnast of all time.
Rivera, the youngest member of the entire U.S. delegation across all sports, was not chosen for any of the lineups, as the team opted to rely on its veteran gymnasts. Biles and Chiles participated in all four events, while defending Olympic all-around champion Lee competed on the uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise.
"It's been an incredible experience," Rivera said. "Even just practicing with them has been amazing because I see how hard everyone is working, both mentally and physically. I was thrilled to support them on the floor tonight. Despite everything we've been through, we came together on the crucial day. I'm so proud of this team and loved cheering them on."
Great Britain made a remarkable comeback after finishing seventh in qualifications to advance to the final. Although the team had won bronze in Tokyo, injuries to many top athletes before the Games had cast doubt on their medal prospects. The team ultimately finished in fourth place.
