Alison Gibson has secured her spot on the 2024 Olympic diving team. In 2021, she fell short and did not get the chance to compete in Tokyo, but after years of hard work, she has finally secured her spot and is officially an Olympian. Gibson’s journey to get where she is today was not easy, but she continues to thank God for the opportunity to compete in Paris. “First and foremost, I want to say all glory to God,” Gibson said as she pointed to the sky after making the Olympic roster.
During the Olympic trials last month, Sarah Bacon finished in first-place while Gibson secured a second-place finish, making the final spot on the roster. Gibson’s best friend and bronze medalist at the Tokyo Olympics, Krysta Palmer, finished in third-place at the trials, just missing the final roster. In an interview following the trials, the three girls were asked about their performance that day. When the interviewer asked Palmer what she said to her best friend after she finished ahead of her to take the final spot on the roster, Palmer said, “You deserve this.’ She’s worked so hard and she’s just such an incredible athlete.” Palmer told Gibson, “I have learned so much from you. To see you grow and see you mature over the last three years is remarkable. Not only do I see it, but everybody else sees it on this pool deck. Gosh, I’m just so proud. I feel nothing but joy for you qualifying, and I know that you’re gonna go kick some booty and have some fun out there because that’s what we do best.” Gibson responded, “I would not be here without Krysta. I would not be here. She called me last June and she said, ‘I want you to come back.’ Without that call and without her prayers and without the support of everyone, I would not be standing here today. This girl right here is amazing!”
Later on, Gibson took to Instagram to thank her best friend. “I’ve said it a thousand times and I will say it again. Sports are about so much more than winning,” she began. “Krysta called me last year to come back to diving and I did. Her and I went on to qualify the United States Olympic quota spot for women 3m synchro and I just qualified for my second Olympics!! God took us on an incredible journey of growth and discovery and that is what all of this is about. The Olympics is a proof point that you are good, but the journey and the dedication and the daily work is what makes you who you are,” she continued. “The Olympics is a resume builder, but the journey is what truly shapes you. @krystapalmer I am so thankful for you and for everything you have taught me. You are a winner and a true champion in my heart and mind. Thank you for everything you have done for me.”
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