Alexa Moreno Eyes Olympic Vault Podium After Tokyo Miss

Mexican gymnast Alexa Moreno, who narrowly missed the podium at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, is aiming for a medal on the vault at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Moreno, recognized for her achievements both on and off the mat, is relying on her extensive experience and the absence of some top competitors to make her mark.

Mexican gymnast Alexa Moreno is banking on her extensive experience and the absence of some leading contenders to secure a spot on the vault podium at her third Olympics in Paris.

Moreno, 29, narrowly missed a medal at Tokyo 2020, finishing just 0.017 points behind bronze medallist Yeo Seojeong of South Korea. Back at the Olympic stage, Moreno exudes calm and focus. 'I'm not someone who naturally has a lot of self-confidence, but when it's time to compete, I feel at home,' she said after a training session at Paris's Bercy Arena.

The field has opened up in the absence of Russian gymnasts, faced with competition sanctions linked to the Ukraine conflict. 'There are more opportunities now,' Moreno acknowledged. 'Although it's a shame they're not here, it's a chance for others to shine.'

Having made history as the first Mexican female artistic gymnast to win a world championship medal in 2018, Moreno's achievements have been widely recognized. She was named one of Forbes Mexico's 100 most powerful women and has a Barbie doll made in her likeness. 'All my experience supports my efforts. I feel calm and expect everything to go well,' said Moreno, who had knee surgery in November and now focuses on maintaining her composure rather than endless routine repetitions.