Overcoming significant challenges, Jade Carey clinched a bronze medal in the vault final at the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking her third career Olympic medal. Carey, battling a severe illness that left her unable to eat or drink properly in the days leading up to the qualifying round, achieved an average score of 14.466 at Bercy Arena.
Competing last in the final, Carey delivered a stellar performance, executing a Cheng and a double-twisting Yurchenko to secure her place on the podium. She finished behind her teammate Simone Biles, who claimed gold, and Brazil's Rebeca Andrade, who took silver.
“This medal means everything to me,” Carey expressed. “Proving myself in the vault final and earning this medal is incredibly special, especially after the disappointment in Tokyo.”
Carey’s triumph is particularly redemptive following her missed podium finish in the vault at the Tokyo Olympics, where she was a favorite but stumbled. She did, however, win gold on the floor exercise in Tokyo.
Despite the pressure of going last, Carey remained focused, saying, "I tried to stay focused on what I needed to do."
Carey’s preparation was compromised due to her illness, leading her to opt for a less difficult second vault to conserve energy. Her father and coach, Brian, also fell ill, missing podium training on July 25. Despite these setbacks, Carey’s determination saw her through, contributing to the U.S. women's team gold in the finals.
Carey's bronze medal in Paris is a testament to her resilience and dedication, solidifying her status as a three-time Olympic medalist.
"It's been so much fun," Carey reflected, "and I think that's bringing out the best gymnastics from us. We all wanted redemption in some way, and I think we all got it."
