The Greek on the rings. The Uzbek on the parallel bars. The Mexican on the pommel horse. The Armenian on the vault. The Israeli on the floor.

These are gymnastics specialists. While the Americans, the Russians, the Chinese, and the rest of the elite send full teams and all-around hopefuls, these specialists are often their country's lone gymnastics Olympic representative. They have one event, one chance for a medal. Four years of training, competing, qualifying — one minuscule mistake, and it's all for naught.

The Israeli on the floor is Alexander Shatilov, who has multiple medals in various European and World championship, but has finished 8th and 6th and his two previous Olympics. This time, he made that mistake, not even making it out from qualifying. Alas, this is likely his last chance for a medal.

For in four years, there will be a new wave of gymnastics specialists...