Check This Out

ATHLETE INTERVIEW: Shawn Johnson

 

Shawn Johnson struck gold by sticking a crazy-amazing routine on the balance beam in Beijing. This 16-year-old superstar also snagged three silver medals in her Olympic debut. And even though Shawn just won a Teen Choice Award for Favorite Athlete, this superstar is more like you than you may think. Who’da thought she’d be watching the Olympics on TV? Keep reading to find out more about your fave gymnast!

 

 

GL: After such tough competition, how do you feel about doing a more fun exhibition, like the Tour of Gymnastics Superstars?

Shawn: I can’t wait!!! But I’m really excited to see my friends first. Then when it’s all over, hopefully I’ll go on a vacation.
 
GL: Did you get a chance to watch any of the other competitions besides gymnastics?

SJ: We got to watch TV every night so I saw quite a bit. Basketball, swimming, diving, men’s gymnastics, track and really a little of everything.
 
GL: Were there any athletes you wanted to meet while at the Games?

SJ: Yao Ming. I actually got to see him but haven’t gotten to meet him yet.
 
GL: Is there any jewelry you always wear? Can you wear it when you compete?

SJ: None while competing, but a [I wear a] peace necklace I got from a really close family friend that I wear every day, and my infinity ring I got from Worlds last year.
 
GL: What are a few of your fave songs?

SJ: SuperGirl, Just Dance, anything by Kelly Sweet, Michael Buble and One Step at a Time.
 

Check out pics from the Olympics (and Shawn's scrapbook!) at nbcolympics.com.

BY JIAE K. ON 8/26/2008 11:25:00 AM 58 COMMENTS