“For Life”: Gabby Douglas Receives Unexpected Message From Former US Teammate Over Paris Return

Three-time Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas is making a return to an elite gymnastics event, adding gravity to her phenomenal comeback. A trailblazer in the gymnastics domain, Douglas is heading to compete this coming February 24 at the Winter Cup competition, to decide her fate for making it to the Paris Olympics.

Among those cheering for Douglas’ return includes her former teammate McKayla Maroney. Part of the legendary “Fierce Five” at the 2012 Summer Games with Douglas, Maroney is enthusiastically rooting for her this Olympics.

McKayla Maroney cheers for Gabby Douglas’s Olympic return

A recent Facebook post published by Inside Gymnastics gives insight into the reception of Gabby Douglas’s return as retired gymnast McKayla Maroney celebrates it. Maroney remarks, “Amen girl. Let’s Go! Cheering you on for life.”

Gabby Douglas and McKayla Maroney were together a part of “Fierce Five,” alongside Aly Raisman, Kyla Ross, and Jordyn Wieber. Together they had delivered the first Olympic gold medal since 1996 for the US in the team all-around at the 2012 Olympics.

McKayla had terminated her international career in gymnastics in 2016 due to consistent injuries and health issues, including the Larry Nassar’s abuse case. Douglas, now 28, after winning gold at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, also took a hiatus. Her experience perpetrated the gruesome reality of being a black girl in the hegemony, facing public backlashes that pushed her into forced retirement. Douglas was also one of the many female gymnasts who was sexually abused by Larry Nassar.

Despite past challenges, Douglas’s return is met with enthusiasm. And now, with her comeback to gymnastics again, Maroney is there to support her “for life.”

Comeback after six years

During an interview on “Hallie Jackson NOW,” Douglas remarked, “I’m still a competitor at heart.” For Douglas, gymnastics always occupied a special position. “I never wanted to have a hatred for the sport that I love,” she took to reclaim during the interview.

Read More: “Never Announced Retirement”: 28-Year-Old US Gymnast Gabby Douglas Makes a Confession Ahead of Paris Olympics 2024

Now, Douglas feels rejuvenated and determined to excel with the forthcoming event in Louisville, Ky. On February 24, it is a qualifying round for the 2024 U.S. Gymnastics Championships, which will determine the road to Paris.

Showcasing her excitement through her social media for her fans, including her rigorous training regimen, it shows her resolute determination for the Olympics.

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