Simone Biles and the U.S. women’s gymnastics team brought glamour and athletic excellence to the women’s artistic gymnastics qualification event on Day Two of the 2024 Paris Olympics on Sunday. Wearing sparkling leotards by GK Elite, the team produced a high total score of 172.296, putting the U.S. in the lead for the final on Tuesday.
Biles, as well as her teammates Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey and Hezly Rivera, debuted at the Olympics wearing a crystal-covered leotard designed by GK Elite, the world’s leading brand of gymnastics competition and training apparel.
As previously reported by WWD, the women’s leotards feature more than 47,000 Swarovski crystals, some applied by hand at GK’s Pennsylvania-based production facility. The crystals create a starry pattern reminiscing the night sky
The GK Elite and Swarovski collection for the Team USA women’s gymnastics are inspired by American patriotism and old Hollywood glamour. Along with crystals, Swarovski pearls are also featured on USA Gymnastics leotards as a tribute to Parisian fashion.
We are so proud to have partnered with GK Elite on the USA women’s gymnastics leotards,” said Swarovski creative director Giovanna Engelbert in a statement. “One of the most watched and celebrated events of the Games, it is an honor to help bring sparkle to the world’s biggest stage.”
At the women’s artistic gymnastics qualification event, Biles and the U.S. team were cheered by many celebrities, including Lady Gaga and Tom Cruise.
Biles reached the top all-around score of 59.566, leading the competition by a significant margin. During warm-ups, she experienced discomfort in her left calf. Despite this, she continued to compete after having her leg taped.
Biles is sponsored by Athleta. Previously, she had deals with Nike and beauty brand Caboodles.
The women’s team final is scheduled for Tuesday at 12:15 p.m. ET.
