Simone Biles’ triumphant return: ‘Rising’ Part 2 showcases a champion’s resilience

Paris 2024: A fresh start for an Olympic icon

Three years after stepping back from the Tokyo Olympics, which were held in 2021 due to the pandemic, Simone Biles made a vehement return to the Olympic floor in Paris. Determined to reclaim her title, Biles faced skeptics who had criticized her decision to prioritize her mental health over competition.

Simone Biles Rising, a four-part docuseries directed by Katie Walsh, intimately chronicles Biles’ journey. The first episodes delve into her illustrious career and the struggles that led to her withdrawal in Tokyo. The latter episodes, however, shift the focus to the 2024 Paris Games, presenting a raw and inspiring portrait of an extraordinary athlete reborn.

A calm before the storm

In Part 2, the narrative begins in July 2024, capturing Biles and her family – mother Nellie and sister Adria – savoring moments in Paris. It’s a serene prelude that quickly contrasts with the upcoming intensity. During a heartfelt confessional, Biles admits to grappling with a calf injury incurred during qualifications. Although mentally fortified, physical challenges cast a shadow over her ambitions.

Reflections from March: Training and trials

Episode 3, titled “I Will Defy the Odds,” rewinds to Biles’ 27th birthday on March 14, 2024. Despite celebrations from her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, and her mother, Biles faces another grueling day at the gym. As one of the few gymnasts competing well into her twenties, Biles not only defies age expectations but also prepares to become the oldest female American gymnast at the Olympics since the 1950s.

The evolution of gymnastics: Past and present

Rising masterfully intertwines Biles’ career with the historical tapestry of gymnastics. Through interviews with historians, and legendary gymnasts like Nadia Comăneci and Laurie Hernandez, the series explores the evolution of the sport. The iconic pixie gymnast archetype emerged after Comăneci’s gold medal win at the 1976 Olympics when she was just 14. Biles competes in her third consecutive Olympics at an age where most have long retired, underscoring how balancing mental and physical health can set a new standard for future athletes.

The Olympic trials and triumphs

Following Biles’ birthday reflections, the series moves forward to the gymnastic Olympic trials in Minnesota and the Paris Games. Fans who watched the summer contests may recall Biles’ harrowing hop off the mat the day before the team final, evoking memories of Tokyo. The calf tear was alarming, but Biles’ resilience shone as she pushed through the pain, unwilling to be subdued by external expectations.

Reclaiming the narrative

The initial episodes of Rising emphasize Biles reclaiming her voice and exposing the toxic culture embedded within competitive gymnastics for decades. In contrast, the final two episodes celebrate the artistry and beauty of the sport. Episode 4, titled “I Will Rise,” spotlights Biles’ rivalry with Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade, a contest brimming with technical excellence and difficulty.

A personal glimpse into Biles’ life

Rising also provides a window into Biles’ personal life. In Episode 3, Biles and Owens address the public backlash that ensued when Owens revealed he hadn’t known who she was before their romantic connection. This revelation sparked media frenzy, leading Biles to defend her marriage and temporarily delete her social media account. Despite the external noise, the series portrays the couple’s unwavering support for each other. Touching moments like Owens throwing out the first pitch at a Chicago White Sox game or donning a personalized Biles T-shirt at the Paris Games reveal the couple’s strong bond, reminding viewers of the humanity behind the public personas.

Capturing lighter moments and legacy

While Simone Biles Rising Part 2 may not match the captivating depth of Part 1, it remains compelling. The series highlights the friendly rivalry between Biles and Andrade in the Women’s All-Around, while also showcasing lighter, more personal moments. From Biles and teammate Jordan Chiles’ reactions to their Ralph Lauren Opening Ceremony attire, to Owens comforting Biles before competitions, the series is rich with emotional depth and humor. The culmination of the series sees an overflow of tears and relief as the games conclude, offering a poignant look at a champion who defied the odds.

Simone Biles Rising Part 2 is available to stream starting October 25, capturing the essence of an athlete who continues to inspire and amaze.

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