I’m always interested to see Andy Thornton’s opinions on the American gymnasts:
Kyla should definitely be going to worlds, and could certainly contend for an all-around medal. She won’t have as much difficulty as some of the other top contenders, but her execution could outscore all of them – assuming the judges are willing to throw some 9’s in Antwerp. …
McKayla Maroney looked fantastic. Her floor was awesome, especially considering it’s a brand new routine with some brand new tumbling passes. The music – although not necessarily original – fits her style well, and she can perform a routine as well as any gymnast out there. The double layout is a smart move and looks very good on her – she won’t be able to take that many steps into it …
Maroney is likely the best female vaulter of all time – PERIOD. The Amanar was as big and clean as ever, and that Mustafina was one of the best she has ever done. I think she solidified her spot on the world team with those two vaults, and she should certainly be the front runner to win gold on this event in Antwerp. …
Although I enjoyed seeing Mykayla Skinner’s laid out double-double on floor – and she is certainly the only female to ever compete two double-doubles in one routine – she didn’t look nearly ready to compete in a world championships in my opinion. She has a ways to go in terms of polish and confidence, and I don’t see Martha putting her on the world stage – at least not yet. The Cheng on vault is impressive – though I would like to see more block and height on it – but I definitely think Maroney and Biles can both score higher in a vault final. Huge props to her for all of her big skills, though, including that Arabian and full twist on beam, both done in combination. …
American Gymnast – Maroney and Ross Shine At U.S. Classic…Full Thoughts On The Meet!
Click PLAY or watch Maroney’s 2nd Vault slow mo on YouTube.
I’d send Mykayla Skinner to a World Cup. 🙂
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