Simone Biles, often dubbed the undisputed GOAT of gymnastics, has etched her name into the Code of Points not once. But five times! Twice on floor, twice on vault, and once on beam. Her legendary repertoire showcases not just skill but courage, with each element pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the sport. Now, the trend she started continues. At the 2025 Antalya World Cup, China’s Yang Fanyuwei made waves by performing a full-twisting Jaeger on uneven bars during qualifications. Her move, soon to be recognized as “The Yang” (pending FIG approval), is a stunning example of the global inspiration Biles has ignited. And following in that trail of bold innovation, yet another high school gymnast has stepped up. Signaling a thrilling new era of technical creativity.
Gymnastics is evolving. With every competition, we see young, fierce athletes flipping into fame. But despite the rise of new talent, one name keeps echoing through the arena — the GOAT. The Greatest of All Time. Even as fresh faces dazzle us with jaw-dropping routines, the legacy of the gymnastics GOAT pulls us back in like gravity. But why does the world keep looking back? Let’s dive into the story, the symbolism, and the undeniable magnetism of the legend who changed gymnastics forever.
But while names are being added to the Code, Biles’ dominance remains untouched. Paul Juda recently reminded the gymnastics world why Simone’s name still commands unmatched respect. Posting a video on May 19 of himself performing the Yurchenko double pike vault just before the 2023 Core Hydration Classic. He captioned it perfectly, “That’s why she’s the GOAT 🤯.”
The clip needed no music, no effects, just raw skill. And it brought back memories of Biles’ exclusive relationship with that very vault. She’s only competed in it five times: at the 2021 U.S. Classic, the Olympic Trials, the 2022 and 2023 World Championships, and finally, the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she blew the field away with a 15.766. Five times in four years. That’s how rare and risky this vault is.
Juda’s effort proves that, with enough grit, even the scariest elements in gymnastics can be approached. But there’s still a difference between doing the move and owning it. For now, that ownership belongs solely to Simone. As we edge closer to the 2025 World Championships, one can’t help but wonder: will the queen herself return? And remind the world who still sets the standard? With her history, her moves, and her aura. One thing’s for sure: nobody steals the spotlight quite like Simone Biles.
As fresh talent flips onto the scene, it’s only natural to focus forward. But when a figure like the gymnastics GOAT reappears in headlines, we’re reminded why we fell in love with the sport in the first place. New stars may shine, but the GOAT? They’re the North Star — guiding, inspiring, and forever a part of gymnastics’ heartbeat.
