Olympic Gymnast Jessica Gadirova Initiates Courageous Phase in Rehabilitation Journey Post World Championships Injury

Jessica Gadirova’s Paris dreams aren’t looking too bright right now. The Olympic medalist sustained a freak injury in October this year, which looks to crush her European plans for next year. As gymnastics stars from around the world buckle up for the Paris Olympics, Gadirova braces for a long and arduous recovery process. Gadirova suffered a nasty anterior cruciate knee ligament injury while warming up for the World Championship finals in Antwerp.

This cast a looming shadow on the possibility of Gadirova’s chances in the Paris Olympics. However, the 19-year-old gymnast looks focused on her journey back to full health as she shares crucial images of her post-op condition.

British gymnast shares injury update

In her latest Instagram post, Gadirova gave fans a sneak peek into her current situation. The British gymnast of Azerbaijani descent revealed that the surgery procedure went well, and she’s looking to get back in shape at home. “The procedure went very well yesterday and I’m back home resting and recovering, stated the five-time European Championship gold medalist. Jessica uploaded multiple images of her knees before and after the surgery but cautioned viewers not to swipe on the first image if they aren’t up for some skin-crawling photos.

“Please don’t swipe if you are Squamish“, advised Gadirova. In the last photo, the young athlete can be seen comfortable in her home and on a couch as her left knee sports multiple patches. However, the gymnast looks to be in good hands, as there seem to be enough fruits around her to help her regain strength quickly.

Gadirova also shared short video clips of her walking around the hospital on crutches, assuring fans that she’s well on her way to being able to do all the things she does on the mat. Jessica didn’t forget to thank the doctors, the surgeon, and her coach Joshua Rio, who has been tireless in helping Jessica get rid of her pain.

Gadirova has a lot on her plate

Jessica’s road to recovery will also be accompanied by her attempts to get her mental mojo back. Gadirova has been vocal about mental health on multiple occasions and was a staunch supporter of Simone Biles when the latter decided to step down from 3 to 5 events at the Tokyo Olympics.

Read more: Watch: 19-Year-Old Rising Gymnast’s Inspiring Comeback Following Brutal Injury at World Artistic Championships

Gadirova has been documenting her time at the IRU while she recovers from the brutal injury. With the fans’ good wishes behind her, it waits to be seen what 2024 bodes for the gymnastics prodigy.

Watch this story: Inching Closer to Simone Biles and Shilese Jones, Gymnastics’ Rising Star Unveils Her Next Steps