Day 2 Roundup of the Paris 2024 Olympics
Simone Biles made a spectacular return to the Olympic arena on day two of the Paris 2024 Games. She dazzled the audience with a stunning beam routine in gymnastics qualifying. Despite some concerns about her calf, which required strapping during her vault routine, Biles topped the all-around standings. Celebrities like Snoop Dogg, Ariana Grande, and Tom Cruise cheered her on enthusiastically at the Bercy Arena.
British athletes experienced mixed fortunes. Rower Helen Glover, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, started strong in the women’s four event, advancing to the final with her team. On the other hand, judoka Chelsie Giles, who won bronze in Tokyo, faced an unexpected early elimination in the second round. Boxer Rosie Eccles also exited early after a split-decision loss. Additionally, tennis player Cameron Norrie withdrew from the men’s singles due to injury just hours before his first-round match.
Steven van de Velde’s participation in beach volleyball for the Netherlands sparked controversy due to his past conviction for rape. Despite an online petition and audible boos from the crowd at the Eiffel Tower Stadium, van de Velde and his partner lost their match against Italy.
With the sun shining, the women’s street skateboarding competition kicked off after a delay caused by heavy rain. However, organizers had to cancel a planned triathlon training session in the River Seine due to poor water quality following recent rains. They remain optimistic that conditions will improve before the triathlon events start on Tuesday.
Day two of the Paris 2024 Olympics showcased emotional highs and lows, remarkable performances, and ongoing challenges, highlighting the resilience and determination of the athletes.
Re-reported from the article originally published in BBC.
