ATHENS, Greece, Aug. 29 (UPI) -- Alina Kabaeva of Russia improved on her bronze medal performance from 2000 Sunday by taking Olympic gold in individual rhythmic gymnastics.
Kabaeva had a final score of 108.400 to edge compatriot Irina Tchachina, who had 107.325. Anna Bessonova of Ukraine was the bronze medal winner with a total of 106.700.
Kabaeva is a two-time world champion who should have won gold four years ago, but lost control of her hoop. Following her world championship in 2001, she tested positive for a diuretic and had to endure a one-year suspension.
