Raisman going for gold

"Aly's success today just proves that hard work pays off," USA coach Martha Karolyi said.

"She's one of the most serious and hardest-working girls in training. So finally it came true, and she was able to perform at the (highest) level."

Raisman was the least fancied of the American trio but she insists the lack of attention has helped her quest.

"I was OK with being under the radar because I just felt more calm going into this," she said.

"I didn't feel the pressure. I just wanted to do it more for myself and my coaches because we've been working so hard together. I really felt real confident that I could get my goal."