Missing the Olympics might seem like the end of the world for some. However, for one LSU gymnast, it seems to have helped her mature as a mat technician, if nothing more. After all, just a year ago, they had the chance to be part of Team USA in Paris in 2024. But the same eyes that were full of hope soon fell into despair when a mishap at the 2024 US Gymnastics Classic meant that they were out of the team. And the reason? A torn Achilles tendon. Now, one year down the line, while they are back on the mat, they have some words to say. So what is it?

Well, before that, you might be wondering who we are talking about. Well, it’s none other than Konnor McClain. Making a comeback to competitive gymnastics, McClain has been showing some impressive form for LSU. Since making her return this season, the young phenom dropped 9.800 on the uneven bars and 9.825 on the balance beam. And as the road to the NCAA championships draws nearer, McClain cannot help but have a changed approach towards the sport and her life as a whole. 

Speaking with Olympics.com recently, McClain shed light on how she has struggled to make it through her recovery. “Although it looks fast online, recovery is really hard. It’s definitely my hardest recovery from all of my surgeries,” said McClain. She further stated that going to rehab every day and toiling hard for three hours made her realize the worth of being healthy and able to compete. McClain stressed that the daily visits brought about a major change in her. 

So what changed? Well, it was her mindset. “My mindset is so much different. I’m just happy to come in here every single day, and I feel so blessed just to walk into this literal palace every single day and just be on this campus and just live my best life, honestly,” McClain continued. Sounding a lot more mature, McClain stated that previously, she used to take her life for granted. However, now, McClain is always trying to value whatever she does.

According to her, McClain tries to soak in each moment and feels happy to be healthy and alive. Surely, with things looking rosy for Konnor McClain, she is now looking ahead to the upcoming NCAA championships. Of course, winning the title would be her first priority, but McClain is once more seeing Olympic dreams.

Is Konnor McClain’s Olympic dream just getting started?

Konnor McClain can’t shake the thought of the Olympics! It’s been a constant in her mind, even as her journey has taken unexpected turns. She unapologetically admitted, “I think about it all the time.” Then she continued, “And I don’t have an answer for you. But my story definitely isn’t over.” Despite setbacks, McClain remains fueled by the possibility of an Olympic future.

Training each day, Konnor reminds herself, “You don’t have to give up. You still got it. Just keep going.” With gymnasts like Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles, and Suni Lee proving longevity is possible, she sees a path stretching far beyond the traditional teenage peak. “I don’t have to be 16 anymore to make the Olympic team. I can be 27, I can be 25, I can be 23.”

For now, McClain is locked in on the NCAA season, determined to help her team defend its title. Once that chapter closes, she’ll take a step back and assess. Konnor stated, “I’m going to let my body speak for me for the rest of my career now.” Whether that path leads to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics remains uncertain. But if one thing is clear, it’s that McClain isn’t done dreaming.