Why Are American Gymnasts Breaking?
Three women who hoped to compete in the Olympic team are watching from afar, with injuries. (Illustration by The Free Press, photos via Getty Images)
In an Olympic sport plagued by a history of abuse, where is the line that separates “grit” from self-harm?
Shilese Jones swung on the uneven bars at the U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials a month ago with mesmerizing grace. Her arms extended, her toes pointed, her expression one of total focus, the 22-year-old flung herself backward into the air, pulled her knees in for two flips, then hit the mat in a near-perfect landing. The crowd erupted in cheers.
From afar…
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