How U.S. Olympic women’s gymnastics became a true team in an often-solo sport

NY Times | July 30, 2024

PARIS — On the morning of podium training, the U.S. women’s gymnastics team got its first glimpse of Bercy Arena. The building was empty save a few media members and workers, offering the women a perfect private introduction to its home for the Olympic Games. Before the team began its workouts, Simone Biles told Hezly Rivera to take a walk with her, onto the competition floor.

It was a simple suggestion packed with powerful meaning. Biles is a wise old 27-year-old in her third Olympics; Rivera a wide-eyed 16-year-old in her first.