In a historic moment at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Algerian teenager Kaylia Nemour delivered “the performance of her life” to win gold on the uneven bars, marking the first Olympic gymnastics medal for an African athlete.
The 17-year-old French-born gymnast clinched the title with a career-best score of 15.700, surpassing China’s Qiu Qiyuan, who secured silver with 15.500 points. American Sunisa Lee took bronze, while defending champion Nina Derwael of Belgium finished fourth.
“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. “It was my ultimate dream, years of hard work, details. I’m honored to have been able to win this medal, first of all for me and for Algeria too.”
Nemour’s journey to the podium was marked by a series of challenges, including a significant growth spurt that led to bone issues and subsequent knee surgeries. After a legal battle with the French federation, she switched to represent her father’s country, Algeria, two years ago.
“In qualifying, I had 15.600. When I saw her 15.500, I said I really had to fight and gave the performance of my life,” Nemour explained. “It’s crazy, I’m honored to have this medal after all that has happened, it’s a relief.”
Nemour’s triumph was even more significant given the absence of US gymnastics great Simone Biles, who did not qualify for the uneven bars final. Competing last, Lee’s routine earned her a score of 14.800, adding to her team gold and all-around bronze medals from Paris.
“Having seen the others doing so well kind of put the pressure on me to do a good routine,” said Lee, 21. “That’s exactly what I did.”
Despite her remarkable performance, Qiu expressed some regrets at missing out on the top spot. “(Kaylia) did amazing today,” she said. “All the movements were so smooth. Her routine was perfect. She did even better than her previous routines.”
Reflecting on her victory, Nemour said, “I am very happy to have won this medal for Algeria. I hope I made them proud. It has been an intensive road. But right now I am glad I performed well and have the gold.”
Nemour’s stunning high-flying acrobatic performance not only earned her a place in history but also highlighted the resilience and determination that have defined her young career.
