Simone Biles, widely acclaimed as the world’s best gymnast, has captivated audiences ever more since her departure from the Tokyo Games three years ago. Making a triumphant return, Biles now draws immense crowds, their excitement palpable as she steps back onto the Olympic stage.
In her first Olympic appearance since the dramatic exit at Tokyo, the vastness of Bercy Arena only amplifies the buzz surrounding her. The multitude of photographers present signifies the historic nature of this moment, each one aiming to capture a glimpse of Biles as she performs.
Capturing this significant event requires precision and access, and I had the opportunity to be among a select group of photographers on the floor. With a Sony A9iii camera equipped with a 24-70mm lens, I was able to shoot from a unique angle that included the array of photographers positioned around the perimeter of the field.
AP photojournalist Abbie Parr offers insight into how she documented the four-time gold medalist during her gymnastics debut at the Paris Olympics, providing a vivid snapshot of an athlete’s remarkable return to the global stage.
