Algeria wins Africa’s first gold in asymmetric bars
More good news for the Algerian Olympic team, with boxer Imane Khelif ensured to win a silver medal, and now Kaylia Nemour makes history by becoming not only a Gold medallist but the first African gymnast to win an Olympic medal on August 4th, reported Reuters and agencies.
The 17-year-old secured first place with a breathtaking routine featuring multiple release-and-catch manoeuvres, delighting the crowd in Paris’ Bercy Arena.
Nemour, who previously represented France, scored ahead of China’s Qiu Qiyuan, who was world champion in 2023 and now holds a silver medal. Sunisa Lee of the United States captured her second consecutive Olympic bronze on the asymmetric bars with 14.800 points.
The finishing dismount of the Algerian gymnast’s fast-paced routine was met with roars from the crowd who witnessed the awe-inspiring performance, scoring an astounding 15.700 points. Nemour immediately broke down in tears as she won Algeria’s first medal of the Paris Olympics.
Despite being the favourite to claim gold, Neymour was completely in disbelief after the competition.
READ: Iran demands exclusion of Israel from Paris Olympics
After winning her first gold at the most prestigious global competition of her career, Neymour said, “I can’t believe this has happened […] this is too much. I have no words.”
Qiu Qiyuan, also 17, had executed a spectacular routine and briefly topped the standings with 15.500 points before Nemour approached the bars.
“When I saw her result of 15.500 points, I told myself that I would really need to fight,” Nemour said. “I re-focused quickly and got the best mark of my life, and it was the right time to get it.”
Nemour has been recognised as a legend, according to a statement released by the Algerian Olympic Committee, adding that she had shown “the world the strength and determination of Algeria with your wonderful victory.”
Bronze medallist Sunisa Lee was seen cheering for Nemour throughout her routine.
“I was really aiming for third place because I actually really wanted Kaylia to win, just because she’s so incredible,” said Lee, who has now won her sixth Olympic medal after being an all-around champion in the Tokyo Games.
Reuters and agencies
