Gabby Douglas | Return to Gymnastics

After nearly 8 years since competing in the 2016 Rio Olympics, Gabby Douglas has announced her return to professional gymnastics. She is set to make her comeback debut at the Winter Cup in Louisville Kentucky on February 24th. 

Douglas will be competing across all events but a special focus on the uneven bars. The Olympic Trials, which begin in June, will dictate whether Douglas will make history in becoming the first American women, since Dominique Dawes, to qualify for three Olympic teams. Teammate Simone Biles will also be vying for a third Olympic appearance. 

In 2012 Douglas secured the All-Around Gold Medal in London as part of the “Fierce Five”. Inspired by the 2022 Olympics, she felt the compelling desire to get back into the gym affirming that she is “still a competitor at heart” (Hallie Jackson NOW). 

In an interview with “Time Person of the Week” Douglas said, “I never wanted to have a hatred for the sport that I love. I don’t want to end it that way. I’ve never announced retirement. I always kept in the back of my mind, like, we have to finish on a better note.”

At 28 years old, Douglas will be the eldest competitor at the Winter Cup marking a remarkable comeback for an outstanding athlete.