Algerian Teenager Kaylia Nemour Makes History with Olympic Gold in Uneven Bars.
The 17-year-old’s exceptional performance earned her a score of 15.700 outscoring China's Qiu Qiyuan (15.500) and USA's Sunisa Lee (bronze) in the uneven bars final for Algeria’s first medal in Paris.
Nemour wept tears of joy as she became the first African athlete to win an Olympic gymnastics medal with gold on the uneven bars in Paris, outshining several big names in the competition and registering her country’s first medal at the 2024 Olympic Games.
The Algerian’s fast-paced routine, featuring a number of complex release-and-catch manoeuvres, delighted the crowd.
As she landed her final dismount, she burst into tears, knowing she had achieved something extraordinary.
Emotions ran high for the young gymnast when her win was confirmed, she wrapped herself in the Algerian flag, basking in the applause.
“I’m so shocked, it’s the dream of all my life. I can’t believe it has happened, I’m speechless,” said Nemour.
“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,” said the Algerian.
She added, “It’s crazy. I’m honoured to have this medal after all that has happened. It’s a relief.”
Born in France, Nemour began competing for Algeria last year after a dispute with the French gymnastics federation.
She switched to represent her father’s country after the French federation blocked her from competing on medical grounds after a dispute.
Fans roared and jumped to their feet as soon as Nemour completed her dismount.
Defending Olympic uneven bars champion Nina Derwael of Belgium finished fourth with 0.034 of a point off the podium.