HAMPTON ROADS — Gymnastics fans in the 757 have some skin in the game for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Gabrielle Douglas, 2012 and 2016 Olympian and Virginia Beach native, has announced her return to gymnastics.
Douglas won the gold medal in the all-around competition at the London 2012 Olympics along with the team gold medal. In 2016, she also accompanied the Rio 2016 Olympic team, where she won a gold medal in the team competition.
She paused training after the Rio 2016 games.
On July 13, Douglas announced her return to the competition floor via social media.
“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. I wanted to find the joy again for the sport that I absolutely love doing. I know I have a huge task ahead of me and I am beyond grateful and excited to get back out on the floor,” Douglas said on Instagram.
According to the rules by USA Gymnastics, Douglas can petition to compete at the US Classic, slated for Aug 4-6. She would need to compete at the U.S. Classic and earn qualifying scores to attend the U.S. Championships meet scheduled for late August.
In her statement, Douglas also shared her thanks to the fans for their support.
“Even more grateful for all of your support and love. It truly means so much. There’s so much to be said but for now, let’s do this,” Douglas said.
Douglas’ announcement comes weeks after Simone Biles announced her return to competition. With reigning all-around champion Sunisa Lee also training for 2024, Team USA Gymnastics could boast three all-around gold medalists on its squad for the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games.
Elite gymnastics returns to primetime on Aug. 4 during the U.S. Classic. For more information on all things USA Gymnastics, visit usagym.org.
