Ian Gunther’s fans still haven’t fully come to terms with the news. While the Stanford alum doesn’t have much to show for on the Olympic stage, his popularity in the NCAA circuit is undeniable. A four-time national champion, the gymnastics star announced his retirement just a couple of days ago. However, before settling into a quieter life, it seems Gunther is taking one final moment to reflect on the highs and lows of his professional career.

While Ian didn’t join Simone Biles, Brody Malone, and others in Paris for the 2024 Olympics earlier this year, he soon teamed up with them for the Gold Over America Tour. After two months of crisscrossing the country, Gunther announced his retirement last weekend. However, it seems he still hasn’t entirely moved on from the exhilarating journey!

Ian Gunther’s glory speaks for itself

In his post from December 9, the 25-year-old gymnast shared his gratefulness for being a part of the iconic Vera Caslavska Sokol Grand Prix in 2024. Gunther won silver at the mixed cup competition, joining hands with Czech gymnast Vanesa Masova. Named after the legendary Czechoslovakian gymnast who voiced discontent against the contemporary political situation in her country, the Vera Caslavska Sokol Grand Prix features some of the most prominent stars from around the world.

Justifiably, being part of a competition of such status is like being part of an exclusive club, and Ian Gunther couldn’t be more elated to be able to do so. “Čáslavská, Czech Olympic champion and the namesake of the meet, protested Soviet oppression in 1968, showing how athletes can use their platforms beyond their sport. I’m honored to compete in a competition under her name!” Ian noted how his career has enough to ensure his retirement days aren’t spent with regret for having missed out on anything.

Without a doubt, Gunther will easily go down as one of the most celebrated NCAA gymnasts in history. While fans might be feeling the heartbreak of missing seeing Ian in action, they should be glad to have also had the time to witness the athlete in action.

What lies ahead for the NCAA celebrity?

Even the Product Design major grad seems to be assuring his fans that this is not the end of the road. Instead, Gunther believes more incredible things are waiting to happen. With numerous national and international awards under his belt, the gymnast is now keen to make the sport reach new heights in new ways after years of reveling in the fans’ applause. “I’m committed to staying even more engaged and finding new ways to give back to gymnastics and the community that has given me so much,” Ian wrote in his Instagram post when dropping the big announcement, underscoring that he’s hopeful that his tryst with gymnastics isn’t ending yet.

Instead, fans wait to see if Gunther’s social media personality continues its triumphant run. Today, the gymnast has a substantial social media presence across different platforms, and regularly connects with the followers to share snippets from his life. Even during the Simone Biles-led GOAT, Gunther regularly uploaded BTS from the tournament to keep them informed about the fun the whole squad was having. So what do you foresee for Ian Gunther in the coming days? How do you think he’s planning to make gymnastics better? Share your thoughts below!