Algeria’s Kaylia Nemour becomes 1st African gymnast to win Olympic gold
Algerian gymnast Kaylia Nemour has made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics by becoming the first African to win a gymnastics medal. The 17-year-old secured gold in the women’s uneven bars final, marking a significant achievement for both herself and her country.
Nemour’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. Competing in the Bercy Arena in Paris, she delivered an exceptional routine that earned her a career-best score of 15.700 points. This impressive feat pushed her ahead of China’s Qiu Qiyuan, who won silver with 15.500 points, and American Sunisa Lee, who took home the bronze.
“I’m so shocked, it’s the dream of all my life. I can’t believe it has happened, I’m the Olympic champion. I’m speechless,” said Nemour, reflecting on her remarkable victory. She added, “It was my ultimate dream, years of hard work, details. I’m honoured to have been able to win this medal, first of all for me and for Algeria too.”
Nemour’s triumph is particularly notable given her challenging path to the Olympics. After a growth spurt caused significant bone issues, including a required surgery on both knees, she faced exclusion from the French national team. This setback led her to switch allegiances and represent Algeria, a decision that culminated in her historic win.
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In qualifying, Nemour scored 15.600, which set the stage for her final performance. The French-born athlete’s routine was marked by its precision and high-flying acrobatics, factors that contributed to her standing out among her competitors.
“I had to fight and give the performance of my life,” Nemour said. “It’s crazy, I’m honoured to have this medal after all that has happened, it’s a relief.”
Nemour’s victory came in the absence of Simone Biles, the US gymnastics legend who did not qualify for the uneven bars final. Despite the intense competition, Nemour maintained her focus and delivered a performance that will be remembered as a historic moment in Olympic gymnastics.
The podium saw Qiu, who had been the world champion before the Olympics, settling for silver, while Lee, who also secured medals in other events, finished third. “(Kaylia) did amazing today,” said Qiu. “All the movements were so smooth. Her routine was perfect. She did even better than her previous routines.”
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Nemour’s gold medal not only marks a personal achievement but also represents a landmark moment for African gymnastics on the global stage. As she celebrates this historic victory, she has undoubtedly inspired future generations of athletes across the continent.
