Aly Raisman, as a two-time Olympian and a captain of the US women’s gymnastics team, has fairly trodden the path well in the sport. Olympics, Pac Rim, and World Championships, the stages have been hers numerous times throughout her career. So when ESPN fetched the icon for the role of gymnastics analyst as a phase of her life, none could have filled the shoes better.

Aly Raisman announced her retirement from gymnastics early in 2020 stating no specific reason. Since then, the 29-year-old has taken on numerous roles, including that of an author and a trainer. But come 2024, a new chapter awaited Raisman, keeping her close to her roots. And upon debut, gratitude and love enclosed the famed gymnast.

“Never too old” to be grateful

4 days ago, ESPN confirmed the news that Aly Raisman was going to join the team alongside John Roethlisberger as NCAA gymnastics analyst. For the first assignment of her new role, the Olympian was amidst the showdown between LSU Tigers and Kentucky. Hours of practice and a season-high score witness later, Raisman had many to thank, including her mom – for which she agreed she would never be too old for. “Thank you SO much for all the support. Your comments mean so much!!!,” Raisman started in her caption. “I am so grateful for this opportunity to talk about gymnastics & share my love for the sport with you all.” 

After thanking the entire team for helping her get through, Aly Raisman ensured to mention her mom, who came in to lend her support. “Thank you to @lynnraisman for coming to support me (I’m never too old to need my mom right??). The gymnast garnered praise for being a natural from the fans and LSU who put in their best performance yet. After a combined sense of excitement and nervousness, and after hours of preparation, the gymnast’s efforts seemed to have paid off.

Aly Raisman aims for perfection

Aly Raisman has admittedly been off the grounds and out of touch for quite some time. So getting back on track and her homework, the gymnast reveals to have caught up on clips extensively for the first time since she was 8. “I feel like a little kid again,” Raisman admitted to PEOPLE. Her further practice sessions involved recording herself, taking notes, and watching her performances. To get through the process, the gymnast even formed a trick for her mind.

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She reveals to have imagined herself in a living room with her friends who are unaware of the gymnastics proceedings. Walking them through and explaining as she goes is the idea Aly Raisman focused her mind on. A trick or not, the 3-time Olympic gold medalist sure won the first day of her job.

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