
Olga Korbut's 1972 Olympic Uneven Bars
Gymnastics routineAbout
Olga Korbut's 1972 Olympic uneven bars routine was a groundbreaking performance that showcased her innovative and daring skills. At just 17 years old, Korbut stunned the gymnastics world with her pioneering move, known as the "Korbut Flip" or "Dead Loop." This involved standing on the high bar, executing a backflip, and then regrasping the bar, a feat that was unprecedented in international competition[2][4]. Her routine not only highlighted her technical prowess but also brought a new level of acrobatic flair to the sport. Korbut's performance in the event finals earned her a score of 9.800, tying for the second highest bars score alongside Erika Zuchold, both securing silver medals behind Karin Janz's gold[1]. Despite the technical challenges and risks associated with the Korbut Flip, it became a defining moment in gymnastics history. The move was later banned due to safety concerns, but its impact on the evolution of uneven bars routines remains significant[2][3]. Korbut's charismatic performance captivated audiences, cementing her status as a gymnastics legend.