Gabby Douglas Returns to Gymnastics After Nearly Eight-Year Hiatus

"I'm Still a Competitor at Heart"

Douglas, the first Black woman to win the highest individual Olympic gymnastics competition, is set for a comeback at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Three-time Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas announced her return to competitive gymnastics on Thursday in an Instagram post. Douglas, who took a prolonged break from the sport, says she used the time for deep reflection.

"I'm still a competitor at heart," Douglas wrote in her post. "I love the sport of gymnastics and I'm ready to give it my all again."

Douglas, who became the first Black woman to win the highest individual Olympic gymnastics competition in 2012, is now training under legendary coach Liang Chow. Chow is known for coaching Douglas to her Olympic gold medals, as well as other top gymnasts like Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liukin.

Douglas's comeback is sure to be a major story in the lead-up to the Paris 2024 Olympics. She is one of the most decorated gymnasts in American history, and her return to the sport is sure to inspire a new generation of athletes.