Gold Medalist Gabby Douglas Announces Return to Gymnastics

Gabby Douglas is plotting a comeback!

The three-time Olympic gold medalist–who did not compete in the 2020 Tokyo Games–is heading back to the mat, as she teased a return to gymnastics on social media this week.

"hey guys long time no post," the 27-year-old athlete wrote on Instagram Thursday, July 13, after previously stepping away from social media for mental health reasons last year.

"as you all know i stepped back from the socials and in that time i did a lot of journaling, reflecting, soul searching and found myself back where it all began," she wrote, adding, "it’s so easy to suppress and run away from facing darkness and fears."

"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 candidly wrote. "i wanted to find the joy again for the sport that i absolutely love doing." 

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That's when she hinted at her decision to return to the sport, just in time to train for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

"i know i have a huge task ahead of me and i am beyond grateful and excited to get back out on the floor," she stated. "and even more grateful for all of your support and love. it truly means so much🖤."

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"there’s so much to be said but for now….💪 😎let’s do this #2024," she concluded.

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Douglas was met with tons of support from her fellow gymnastics community in the comments, including Aly Raisman, who wrote, "Wishing you all the best of luck!!!!!! 🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍 cheering for you! Can’t wait to watch!!!! 😊."

McKayla Maroney also chimed in, adding, "Amen girl. Let’s go. Cheering you on for life."

Even actress Gabrielle Union celebrated Douglas' announcement, adding her own comment that read, "Lets goooooo."

And Douglas isn't the only gymnastics superstar planning on returning to the sport, as Simone Biles recently registered for the U.S. Classic, her first competition since notably dropping out of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

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