February 23rd 2024.
Just days before her highly anticipated return to the world of competitive gymnastics, Gabby Douglas shared some devastating news with her fans. In an emotional post on Instagram, the 28-year-old revealed that she had tested positive for COVID-19, effectively preventing her from making her comeback debut this weekend.
"I'm so sad to say that I won't be competing this weekend," Douglas wrote. "I was beyond excited to get back on the competition floor, but unfortunately, I just received a positive COVID test result."
According to reports from Today, the event scheduled for February 24 would have marked Douglas' first elite meet since the 2016 Rio Games, where she helped the U.S. women's team secure their victory. She was set to compete against Olympic champion Sunisa Lee in the Winter Cup, taking part in three events: vault, beam, and floor exercise.
The news of Douglas' return first came to light earlier this month during an interview on Hallie Jackson NOW. The gymnast explained that she didn't want to end her career on a low note, like she felt she did in 2016. "I wanted to take a step back and work on my mental state...I never wanted to walk away from this sport on a bad day," she shared.
After teasing her potential return on social media back in July 2023, Douglas went on to share photos and videos of herself training, accompanied by the simple caption "loading." But now, with her COVID diagnosis, it seems that her comeback will have to be put on hold once again.
Douglas' incredible journey as a gymnast has been marked by numerous challenges, including injuries and setbacks. And now, with the added hurdle of COVID, her resilience and determination are truly inspiring. "I'll see you guys soon," she promised her followers, despite the tough news.
As one of the most decorated gymnasts in U.S. history, Douglas has etched her name in the record books. At the 2012 London Games, she made history as the first Black athlete to win the Olympic all-around gold title. And although she never officially retired after Rio, she did not compete for a spot on the 2020 Tokyo team.
If she is selected for the 2024 Paris team, Douglas will become the first American woman since Dominique Dawes to make three Olympic squads. Her journey serves as a reminder of the enduring challenges that athletes face, and her determination to continue pushing forward is a true testament to her strength and resilience.
"I may be facing another setback, but I will be back," Douglas assured her fans. And with her unwavering determination and incredible talent, there's no doubt that she will continue to inspire and amaze us all.
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