Gabby Douglas Announces Her Comeback to Gymnastics, Aims for Paris 2024 Olympics

Gabby Douglas, the three-time Olympic gold medallist in gymnastics, has confirmed her return to training and her intention to make a comeback in the sport. The announcement came after months of speculation online, and Douglas took to Instagram on Thursday to share her excitement and gratitude for the support she has received. She expressed her determination to get back out on the floor and compete, stating, “let’s do this #2024.”

Douglas had taken a break from the public eye for almost a year, citing the need to focus on her mental health. However, during this time, she engaged in self-reflection and journaling, which led her back to the sport that she loves. She shared two images on Instagram, where she can be seen performing split leap elements on the balance beam at WOGA Gymnastics in Plano, Texas.

With Douglas’ announcement, all three of the last Olympic all-around gold medallists in women’s gymnastics are now training for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Earlier, USA Gymnastics had confirmed that Simone Biles and Sunisa Lee, the champions from 2016 and 2020 respectively, will be competing at the U.S. Classic in August. However, the inclusion of Douglas in this competition was not previously announced.

To be eligible for the U.S. Championships, Douglas would first have to participate in the U.S. Classic and achieve a qualifying score on at least two events. At 28 years old, she would be the oldest woman to make the U.S. women’s gymnastics team since 2004. Despite her age, Douglas has proven her skills and tenacity, having been part of the U.S. team that won consecutive gold medals at the Rio 2016 Games.

Douglas’ return to gymnastics adds to the already high anticipation surrounding the sport as the Paris 2024 Olympics draw nearer. The presence of Biles, Lee, and now Douglas ensures a fierce competition among some of the world’s best gymnasts. It will be interesting to see how Douglas navigates her way back into top form and whether she can secure her spot on the U.S. team.

As fans eagerly await the U.S. Classic and the U.S. Championships, Douglas’ announcement serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination required to excel in the sport of gymnastics. Her return brings a new chapter to her storied career and adds another layer of excitement to the upcoming competitions. Gymnastics enthusiasts everywhere will be eagerly watching as Douglas strives to make her mark once again on the Olympic stage.