We're excited for the Tokyo Olympics to commence this summer, and taking a look back at incredible performances from the previous Games always gets the adrenaline pumping. Ganna Rizatdinova, representing Ukraine, is a rhythmic gymnast (different from artistic gymnasts such as Simone Biles and Aly Raisman), and her routine set to Annie Lennox's version of Jalacy "Screamin' Jay" Hawkins's iconic "I Put a Spell on You" showcases everything that amazes us about this specific gymnastics discipline introduced as an Olympic event in 1984. It highlights out-of-this-world flexibility, beautiful artistry, and undeniable precision — how else would Rizatdinova be able to utilise the ball prop with such ease?
In the video above from the 2016 Rio Olympics, you'll see Rizatdinova contort her body; execute dizzying turns, overextended leaps, and balance-demanding pirouettes; and dance dramatically all while manipulating the ball with ease (apparatus handling is one aspect of a routine that gymnasts are scored on). Rizatdinova makes catching a ball perfectly behind her back after throwing it feet upon feet in the air look like a breeze.
Rizatdinova placed third all-around in Rio, receiving a bronze medal, and this routine gives off major Halloween vibes (it's never too early for a little Hocus Pocus). Bravo!