U.S. Women's Olympic Gymnastics Team Poised to Win

In 1996, the U.S. Women's Gymnastics team won Olympic gold for the first time in history, inspiring budding gymnasts all over the country. Twelve years later, the best of those tiny tumblers, grown up now into breathtaking athletes, have a chance to follow in the footsteps of their "Magnificent Seven" idols. With the final selections to the U.S. Olympic Team announced on Saturday, Coach Marta Karolyi has assembled a team that promises nothing less than high drama, Olympic style.

Leading the U.S. squad is Shawn Johnson. Small but strong, Johnson is quickly becoming one of America's most recognizable gymnasts. At the 2007 World Championships last September, she became the fourth American gymnast to win the All-Around World title. In 2008, she continued to flourish, placing first at both the U.S. National Championships and the U.S. Olympic Trials. With some of the most difficult gymnastics routines in the world, Johnson has the ability to post high scores on all four events.

Like Johnson, Nastia Liukin has proven to be a strong All-Around competitor. In particular, Liukin shines on the uneven bars, where she often posts scores more than a point higher than her competitors. Among her many accomplishments, Liukin boasts nine World Championship medals. Her effortless artistry makes her a fan favorite.

Alicia Sacramone brings a different set of skills to the squad. At twenty years old, Sacramone has become a seasoned competitor, rarely wavering in major competitions. In the course of her career she has amassed seven World Championship medals, most of which she garnered for her vaulting and floor exercise.

Another veteran gymnast, Chellsie Memmel, seems to have regained her old form after suffering a number of injuries in past years. In recent months, Memmel has shown signs that she is stronger than ever, posting impressive scores at both the U.S. National Championships and the U.S. Olympic trials. As the 2005 World Champion in the All-Around, Memmel has proven her prowess on the international scene.