Gabby Douglas’ Olympic comeback bid ends with ankle injury, withdrawal from USA Gymnastics Championships

Gabby Douglas, the 2012 Olympic all-around champion, has ended her long-shot bid to make the U.S. women’s gymnastics team for the Paris Olympics. The 28-year-old withdrew from the USA Gymnastics Championships due to an ankle injury, putting a halt to her comeback after an eight-year layoff.

Douglas, who also helped the U.S. win gold in the team competition at the 2016 Olympics, had been training hard to make a competitive return to the sport. She made her first appearance at a major U.S. meet at the U.S. Classic in Hartford, Connecticut, but unfortunately fell twice on the uneven bars, ultimately withdrawing from the remainder of the meet.

Despite not meeting the minimum score standard to compete in the all-around, Douglas had qualified for three events – vault, uneven bars, and balance beam. However, with a highly competitive field vying for a spot on the five-woman U.S. team, her chances were limited.

The first Black woman to win the Olympic title, Douglas announced her return to gymnastics last summer, driven by her love for the sport. She had been training under the guidance of Valeri Liukin in Texas, showing glimpses of her former powerhouse self at the American Classic.

While Douglas’ future in gymnastics remains uncertain, there may still be opportunities for her to compete if she chooses to do so. Her determination and passion for the sport are evident, even as she navigates the challenges of a comeback after a significant break.