Gabby Douglas Plans 2028 Olympic Comeback After Injury
By Movieguide® Contributor
Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas was on her way to the Paris Olympics until an injury kept her from returning to the stage.
Despite not being able to compete in 2024, the gymnast has her eyes set on 2028.
“I know it’s four years away, but I’m looking forward to it,” Douglas told PEOPLE. “Still representing the USA, still continuing to do gymnastics, so I’m excited.”
Douglas was upset with her injury at first, but she changed her perspective.
“It was very bittersweet,” Douglas said of the injury she suffered. “And it was actually doing my signature skill, which is the [standing] full on the beam.”
“I proved to myself and to the sport that my skills remain at an elite level,” she told ESPN, adding, “My plan is to continue to train for the L.A. 2028 Olympics. It would be such an honor to represent the U.S. at a home Olympics.”
Douglas shared her emotions on social media after the injury occurred.
“Wow what a journey. First off I just wanted to say that I am forever grateful for all of your support, grace, and love. It truly has touched my heart,” Douglas began. “I’m sad to say that due to a foot injury during practice I will not be able to continue my 2024 journey. This may be the end of this chapter but not the end of my gymnastics story.
“Thank you all for being with me on this journey and lifting me up on my lowest days,” she continued. “I love you all so much! Sending all the best to the girls tonight! Always cheering USA on!”
Douglas’ love for Gymnastics has been a constant since she was just 6 years old.
“Even when I was younger, I always loved going to the gym and challenging myself,” Douglas told PEOPLE. “I was always a super daredevil. I would always just flip and try new things, and my coach would always say, ‘Wait, hold on. You’re not ready for that. Let’s do the basics to get to the more difficult skills.’ ”
“I feel like at this point, age is really just a number because my body can still do amazing things even at 28,” she added. “And I just think that when you have the proper diet, structure, schedule, and everything that aligns, then you can do anything that you put your mind to.”
Movieguide® previously reported on Douglas’ return to gymnastics:
Three-time Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas has returned to gymnastics after an eight-year hiatus.
Per PEOPLE, “In her comeback meet this past weekend, the 2012 all-around Olympic gold medalist, 28, successfully qualified for the U.S. Gymnastics Championships at the end of May, setting her up for a trip to the Olympic Trials in June—and potentially the 2024 Summer Olympics.”
After the competition, Douglas shared a video of one of her highest scores on the vault.
“8 years later…. Well guys… It wasn’t my best showing this weekend but I was so happy and grateful to be back out there on the floor doing what I love again,” she wrote. “With anything there are always kinks to work out, get better and improve. I’ve never been more excited to get back into the gym and work even harder. Forever grateful for all of your love and support. it means the world. I love you guys and I’ll see you in Hartford ?.”
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