Not many gymnasts can boast of being able to pull off the dreaded Yurchenkco Double Pike, and that’s what sets Simone Biles apart from the rest of the pack. Officially named the Biles II, this move has been a bane for gymnastics stars around the world, until the Olympic gold medalist first executed it with perfection in 2021. Understandably, her loyal fans believe this singular feat is enough for Biles to be recognized as the greatest ever, and an NCAA star is in agreement.
Michigan Wolverines’ star Paul Juda secured his spot in the national team for the Paris Olympics after a stellar display at the US Gymnastics Team Trials last week. The YDP is only one weapon in his arsenal, but the sheer difficulty of the vault move makes him understand why Biles is placed in such a revered status by her peers.
In an interview with NBC Chicago from earlier today, Juda noted why Simone is truly the greatest gymnastics star of all time beyond doubt. “What’s really difficult about it is that there aren’t too many men’s athletes that do it,” the 22-year-old stated about the YDP. Subsequently, he hailed his celebrity colleague, who he will be joining on the flight to Paris. “…when you put it into perspective, there’s never been a female that’s done it until Simone, right?” said Juda, noting just how elusive the move has remained until only recently.
While Paul did acknowledge that the move itself is incredibly challenging, he also seemed to make it clear bout his opinion of the country’s most decorated female gymnast ever. “…putting Simone already into her own kind of G.O.A.T category is one thing. But yeah, the vaults extremely difficult,” Paul was quoted in the interview.
