Three-time Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas said Thursday she is returning to competitive gymnastics with an eye on participating in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Douglas made history in 2012 at age 16 when she became the first Black woman to win the Olympic all-round title at the London Games.
“For many years, I’ve had an ache in my heart. But I didn’t want to keep carrying anger, pain, sadness, or regret and through my tears and hurt, I’ve found peace,” Douglas said on Instagram. “I wanted to find the joy again for the sport that I absolutely love doing.
“I know I have a huge task ahead of me and I am beyond grateful and excited to get back out on the floor.”
Now 27, Douglas also was part of the United States team victories in 2012 and 2016 (in Rio de Janeiro).
Douglas didn’t attempt to make the USA Gymnastics team for the Games held in Tokyo in 2021.
Douglas also was among the gymnasts who came forward with sexual abuse allegations against Larry Nassar, the longtime team doctor now in prison. Nassar pleaded guilty in 2017 and was sentenced for up to 175 years in prison.
Douglas isn’t the only high-profile gymnast looking to make waves again. Simone Biles, the 2016 all-around champion and four-time goal medalist, plans to take a shot at making the team. Also, 2021 all-around champ Sunisa Lee is hoping to regain her health and perform. She was forced to end this past college campaign at Auburn early due to kidney issues.
–Field Level Media