2021 Gold Over America Tour Expands with Male Gymnasts to Boost Exposure

Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, is set to bring back her Gold Over America Tour this fall, but with a twist. This year’s 30-city tour, which begins in Southern California on September 17 and concludes in Detroit on November 3, will feature male gymnasts as well. Biles, who aims to add to her collection of seven Olympic medals at the upcoming Paris Olympics, explained her decision to expand the show by saying, “But this time around we’re like, ‘Okay, that worked, but let’s do it a little bit differently, let’s invite the men.’” Among the men set to join Biles are Fred Richard, the first American male to win a world championship all-around title since 2010, and rising star Brody Malone. The inclusion of male gymnasts is intended to increase exposure to the sport, particularly in the United States, where women’s gymnastics has dominated for decades. According to Richard, “The goal is to get as many eyes on men’s gymnastics side as possible and have more people understand who we are and what we do.” Richard, a University of Michigan student, has gained a large following due to his entertaining social media posts that make men’s gymnastics seem both enjoyable and relatable. The tour will also highlight rhythmic gymnastics and may even include Slamball athletes, who perform acrobatic moves on trampolines. Biles has previously used her platform to raise awareness of mental health issues, and this year’s tour will continue to address such concerns. AP Olympics coverage can be found at apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games.