Yes, it finally happened! Following the issues that came with the COVID-19 pandemic and all the delays to worldwide events that occurred as a result, you would be forgiven for thinking that the Tokyo Olympics would never happen at all, but they finally did. Now, it only seems right to take a brief look back at some of the most memorable moments of the 2021 Olympics that we had been waiting so long for. 

Simone Biles Withdrawing, Then Returning to Win Bronze 

One of the major faces that took to the gymnastics mat at the 2020 Olympics was that of Simone Biles. She is arguably one of the most celebrated American gymnasts of all time. It was heart-breaking to millions as the 24-year-old withdrew from the competition following her first vault, admitting that she didn’t feel comfortable risking a medal for her USA team. 

Simone’s tweet read as, “the outpouring love and support I’ve received has made me realise I’m more than my accomplishments and gymnastics which I never truly believed before.” Now, following this withdrawal, if you were someone who visits US online casinos or is generally a betting person, you would have put your money on Simone Biles not returning to the games. Well, you’d have been wrong. 

In a largely commendable display of mental fortitude and courage, she ended up returning to the competition and took part in the final of the balance beam, giving a fantastic performance and securing a bronze medal as a result. She commented, saying, “at the end of the day we’re not just entertainment. We’re humans, too. We have things going on behind the scenes… I had to take a step back and focus on myself.” 

Elaine Thompson-Herah Makes History! 

It might come as a surprise, but prior to the 2020 Olympics, no woman had ever successfully defended 100m and 200m titles. Well, that was until Elaine Thompson-Herah came along. The Jamaican sprinter bagged gold in the 2016 games for both the 100m and 200m and managed to do exactly the same again this time around. 

Breaking records in the process, Elaine has successfully cemented herself as the undisputed sprinting Queen of the world. She described the feeling as, “amazing,” which if watching the event is anything to go by, is an understatement.

Italy Dominate with Incredible Triple Track and Field

It appears that not even the Euros was enough for Italy as they managed to enjoy a magnificent games, winning 40 medals in the process. Three of those came from track events at the Olympics, which the country absolutely dominated in. Tamberi managed to bag the first in a high jump, followed by Marcell Jacobs winning the 100m and finally the men’s relay team taking it, too. 

Yes, it seems that thanks to the milestones achieved and exciting events that took place in Tokyo, these Olympic games were certainly worth the wait. We just have to wait a few years until the next games.