Gabby Douglas decides to not pursue qualification for Paris Olympics as a gymnast

Three-time Olympic champion Gabby Douglas has withdrawn from this week’s national championships, putting an end to her bid to make the U.S. Olympic team for the upcoming Paris Games. The 28-year-old gymnast cited an ankle injury sustained during training as the reason for her withdrawal, according to USA Gymnastics.

Douglas, who last competed at the U.S. Classic in May, struggled on bars during the competition and decided to withdraw after failing to meet the required score to compete in the all-around event. Despite making her season debut in April after an eight-year competitive layoff, Douglas was unable to secure her spot at the national championships.

The national championships will see the top female gymnasts competing for a chance to qualify for the U.S. Olympic trials in June. The top two finishers based on their all-around scores will automatically advance, with additional athletes also receiving invitations to compete.

Although Douglas will not be participating in this year’s Olympic trials, she remains determined to continue training with the goal of making the Olympic team in 2028. Reflecting on her decision to step back from competition, Douglas expressed her love for the sport and her desire to end her gymnastics career on a positive note.

With a storied career that includes winning the Olympic all-around gold medal in 2012 and helping the U.S. women’s team secure gold in 2016, Douglas has left a lasting impact on the sport of gymnastics. Despite this setback, her resilience and determination are sure to inspire future generations of athletes.