“Hurts like Hell”: Gymnastics Community Heartbroken As Rebeca Andrade’s 18–Year-Old Rival Announces Retirement

It’s unfortunate when potential doesn’t blossom into a person who is the master of one’s domain. However, while sometimes that happens due to uncontrollable situations, there are a few times when these things just end on a questionable note. Something similar happened with Luo Rui – the 18-year-old highly talented Chinese gymnast who has just announced her retirement.

It’s unbelievable but it’s true. An 18-year-old who has just started her career has decided to call it quits. The sudden retirement of the two-time national champion as well as the 2021 World Championship bronze medalist in the bars final (Rebeca Andrade won the gold) has left the entire internet shocked. While the reason for her decision is unknown, Luo Rui’s social media post suggests that it was a sudden development for her.

In her retirement post, Luo Rui wrote – “Unknowingly, my sports career has ended. Gymnastics has accompanied me for 13 years. There are countless memories of me, my teammates and my coaches struggling and striving in my gallery. While leaving, I felt very reluctant and tears were flowing uncontrollably down my face. Aiya I’m such an emotional person, I can’t stand myself hahaha.” 

Though Rui tried to end her retirement post on a light note, one could sense her emotions through those words. As of now, it’d be speculations but one couldn’t help but wonder whether some injuries played a role in this. Still, her reasons remain unknown, but Rui’s retirement has impacted the fans worldwide.

Seeing a talented player retire is always a sad experience. But watching someone so young being forced to wave goodbye to something they grew up with is haunting. So it isn’t surprising that people didn’t take this news lightly.

Luo Rui’s retirement sends the Gymnastics world into a frenzy

While Luo Rui hanging up her boots did catch most fans by surprise, there were a few who had a different reaction. “I knew luo rui r-wording was coming but it hurts like hell nonetheless,” a fan commented. It’s quite surprising how this gymnastics lover was able to predict something that most didn’t expect. 

“Luo Rui retired I just fell to my knees in the middle of the freeway,” another fan wrote. Though just 18, Rui was certainly a beloved part of the gymnastics world. “luo rui retiring she’s still a queen tho,” an X user wrote. Despite her stepping away from the stage, fans can’t help but continue to be inspired by the 18-year-old.

“Oh shame! Great gymnast,” a fan wrote. Surely, Luo Rui holds a very special place in every gymnastics fan’s heart. “Luo Rui I miss you i miss you luo rui,” a fan said. Certainly, their sentiment echoed what everyone’s been feeling. It really is a surprising development, but one a few saw coming. However, still, it doesn’t make things any less tragic. After all, Rui’s potential was endless. What greener pastures lie in front of her now? Time will tell.