U.S. gymnast Jade Carey marked a triumphant comeback by capturing the bronze medal in the women's vault final at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This achievement comes three years after a mishap at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics where a trip on her first vault derailed her medal hopes.

"I've been anticipating this day for a really long time, and it was one of my biggest motivators to get back here and be in the vault final,” said Carey, proudly displaying her bronze medal alongside teammate Simone Biles and reigning champion Rebeca Andrade. "To be able to just prove myself and prove to myself that I can do two vaults in a final and to walk with the medal is really special for me."

Carey's journey to the podium was marked by adversity. She revealed she had been ill in the lead-up to the competition, falling sick before Team USA’s women's podium training session on July 25. The illness took a toll on her energy levels and ability to eat, posing a significant challenge during her preparation.

“I started my week throwing up, so that was kind of hard because it just takes all your energy,” Carey said. “You can’t eat, you feel like you just want to lay in bed, but I didn’t really have time to lay in bed. I, obviously, really wanted to compete.”

Despite the setback, Carey's determination remained unwavering. She credited Dr. Marcia Faustin with helping her navigate the difficult days leading up to the competition. "Dr. [Marcia Faustin] was in my room, and I said, ‘I’m competing still. I’m fine,’ and she was like, ‘No, no, I’m not going there yet. Let’s just see if we can get through these next few days and see what happens.’”

Carey gradually regained her strength and by the day of the vault final, she felt ready. “Today, I actually woke up and it’s like, ‘Okay, I think it’s going to be a good day.’”

Her instincts were correct, as she successfully executed her vaults, earning a well-deserved bronze medal. “Bad timing,” said Carey. “I’m just proud of myself for being able to push through and stick with it and get a medal today.”

Carey's story is a testament to resilience and determination, highlighting her ability to overcome physical challenges and mental hurdles to achieve Olympic success.