Gabby Douglas’ LA 2028 Bid Ignored by Fans as “New Era of Gymnastics” Looks More Hopeful

Just two months before the Paris Olympics, fans are already hedging their bets on who will make the next quad for LA 2028. Gabby Douglas, a gymnastics icon, is known for her incredible talent and achievements. Recently, Douglas’ bid for the 2024 Paris Olympics ended abruptly as she withdrew from the U.S. gymnastics championships due to an ankle injury. At 28, her aim was to be the oldest U.S. Olympic gymnast since 1952, but now attention turns to LA 2028.

Gabby Douglas’s withdrawal from the Xfinity Games ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics has left her fan community in doubt and turning their heads to other compelling gymnasts. Fans seem more inclined towards younger gymnasts, indicating a potential gap between Douglas and her supporters as she continues her athletic journey.

Recently, r/Gymnastics posted a prediction, “just for fun,” on Reddit about who will have the chance to make it to the LA 2028 US female gymnastics team. They suggested a few gymnasts, including Suni Lee, Konnor McClain, and Simone Biles. Another name on the list was Gabby Douglas, who made her comeback last year after 8 years which was exemplified by Douglas’ own statement where she said she has not given up hope yet. “I love this sport and pushing my limits,” Douglas told ESPN. She hopes to inspire peers and the next generation, proving age is just a number and hard work can achieve anything.

Gabby Douglas’ most recent competitive event was the Core Hydration Classic in Hartford, Connecticut, earlier this month. Unfortunately, she withdrew after encountering difficulties on the uneven bars. Her next target will be the 2028 LA Games: “I proved to myself and the sport that my skills remain at the level.” Before the US Championships, Douglas sustained an ankle injury that rendered her unable to compete for Paris. Even if Douglas had competed at the US Championships, she would only be eligible for three events: vault, uneven bars, and balance beam as she did not meet the minimum score to compete in the all-around.

As quite evident from the post’s comment section, fans have now moved on to younger and upcoming talent. Especially LSU’s Konnor McClain, who has been a part of the US National Team since 2019. Joscelyn Roberson excels at vaulting, balance beaming, and floor exercises. People also have eyes on Katelyn Jong, who won a bronze medal on the uneven bars at the 2024 Winter Cup. Even Nola Matthews is a strong contender, as she has been consistently performing at the senior level since 2022. Another mention was Reese Esponada, the first gymnast from Montana in forty years. However, it seems that fans are no longer getting high hopes about seeing Gabby Douglas return. 

Gymnastics fans anticipate the LA 2028 line-up 

Gymnastics enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the star-studded line-up to grace the stage at the LA 2028 Olympics. Fans eagerly anticipate the Games, curious to see which athletes will captivate the world with their performances. A follower of gymnastics gushed about the current lineup of athletes participating in the game. The mix of veterans with young upcoming stars is sure to generate a lot of anticipation. They wrote expressing their excitement, “This new era of gymnastics is so exciting, because not only are we seeing gymnast from 2+ previous quads still in the game, but we are seeing them kill the game! It broadens the field so much in an amazing way.”

Another fan was in support of Tiana Sumanasekara, they emphasized on how her young age gave her an upper hand in a sport like gymnastics where flexibility is key. He excitedly enthused, “Tiana definitely. She’s so young, and is already a really good competitor.”

Another user pointed out that Shilese Jones was considering another Olympic run after this year’s as well. Her versatility, coupled with the fact that she placed 4th this year, is a testament to her talent. “During the Twitter AMA, Sarah said that Shilese is considering doing one more quad!” 

A die-hard fan of Konnor McClain also expressed their hope and anticipation of watching her return to the mat in 2028. Especially since McClain heartbreakingly withdrew after an ACL injury this year. They wrote, “So help me, if Konnor isn’t healthy and doesn’t make the Olympic team in 2028, I will be UNWELL. She has what it takes to be one of the greatest ever. And she’s been through so much. I just want her to have her moment.”

Another user speculated about potential strategies, such as aiming for team gold, seen in the past Olympics. It could create the foundation of a strong team where gymnasts are chosen based on their value in the team. Stating, “Curious if there will be a stated goal for the team/individuals for LA, a la team gold in Atlanta. That could shape how the team comes together.”

Douglas’s ongoing inspiration through resilience and dedication promises renewed support and recognition in her gymnastics journey. With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, fans are eagerly anticipating the LA 2028 Games, where Douglas could leave a mark.