Fans expecting to see a comeback from Gabby Douglas will have to wait for another day. The Olympic gymnastics champ has pulled out of the 2024 US Winter Cup mere hours before the event goes live. While Douglas was all set to return to the mat, a severe health compromise forced her to pull out of the contest.

Gabby Douglas has tested positive for the Covid-19 virus which has resulted in her exit from the contest. The Winter Cup would have marked the first elite tournament appearance by the 28-year-old in eight long years. Notifying her fans of the unfortunate development, Douglas added a post on Instagram.

According to Gabby Douglas, “Hey guys. I’m so sad to say that I won’t be competing this weekend. I was so excited to get back out on the competition floor, but unfortunately, I just tested positive for covid 🙁 Thank you so much for all of your support and positive energy – it really does mean the world to me.” 

While this was a sad update from her, she tried to end her message on a positive note. Gabby Douglas wrote, “I’m crushed but I’ll see you guys soon! Sending my best to everyone comepeting 🖤 x.” The Kentucky International Convention Center was going to be packed with several of her fans. But now, they’ll have to witness the competition unfold without their 3x Olympic Champ.

Gabby Douglas was preparing for this day for over a year and trained rigorously in the gymnasium for it. The 2012 London Olympics all-around gold medalist had also said that her target was the 2024 Paris Olympics. But, with the Winter Cup out of her hands now, Douglas doesn’t have many chances left. Despite this, fans showed a greater concern for the health of Douglas.

Gabby Douglas fans huddle together with their wishes for the champion

Fans asked the Olympic Champion to not worry about the Winter Cup and to focus on her health instead. One fan wrote, “Rest up gabby. We’re rooting for you❤️.” This sentiment was echoed by another fan comment that read, “Get better champion 👏👏😍 well will see you soon.”

Many fans also became fearful of the health of Gabby Douglas, as one of them wrote, “Nooooo! Praying for you that you get well soon and that we get to see you compete soon too!” The fans also cursed the persistent Covid-19 virus that is still active and wrote, “Sending well wishes covid su**s feel better soon🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏.” 

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Lastly, one fan also asked if Gabby Douglas would still be competing in Paris. They wrote, “I feel gut punched. I’m just getting over Covid too. Was having a whole party this weekend. Does this mean no Olympics???? @gabbycvdouglas.” Do you have the same thought running through your head? Especially when the Olympics are just 154 days away? Pour down your thoughts in the comments.

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