 By 1986, Phillips was considered to be one of the United States' best hopes for a medal at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, and was the subject of a considerable amount of media attention.Her signature move, a reverse straddle planche on beam that was eventually named after her, was featured on the cover of the September 1, 1986 issue of "Sports Illustrated".The caption beside her photo touted the 14 year old gymnast as "The New Mary Lou" (in reference to Mary Lou Retton).