A touching scene unfolded at the 2024 Xfinity U.S. Championships, and the gymnastics community was deeply moved by it. Tiana Sumanasekera, a 16-year-old emerging talent in the sport, was called up to the senior national squad. This milestone caused an emotional outburst, which was beautifully recorded in a video that became popular on social media.

In the video, which was tweeted by @ILoovEnglish, Sumanasekera could be seen crying with joy and giving her fellow gymnasts sincere hugs. “Tiana Sumanasekera in tears after being named to the senior national team my heart 💜❤️,” the caption read, highlighting the friendship that characterizes these athletes’ experiences.

Sumanasekera’s path to the senior national squad demonstrates her hard work and commitment. She began her competitive gymnastics career at West Valley Gymnastics, near San Francisco, and gradually rose through the ranks. She showcased her talent in 2022 when she placed ninth in the junior all-around at the U.S. Championships. In a conversation with Olmypics.com, the teenager stated, “So, just being able to do it every day made myself happy and my heart happy,” she continued, “Just knowing that I’ve come this far is something that makes me so incredibly proud and emotional.”

She made a crucial decision in her pursuit of greatness, moving from California to train at the World Champions Centre (WCC) in Texas. Sumanasekera improved her skills, especially on the uneven bars, under the guidance of renowned coaches Cecile and Laurent Landi – who have also trained the GOAT Simone Biles. The uneven bars had always been challenging for her; she was unable to break 11.000 on either day of competition at the 2022 U.S. Nationals. After working with the Landis for a year, she reached a maximum score of 12.800 during the event.

The outcomes were apparent. Sumanasekera’s skill on the bars increased dramatically as a result of improved core strength and arm training. Tiana Sumanasekera’s results were impressive, and she put on a great performance at the 2023 U.S. Championships, tying for eighth place. Due to her accomplishments, she was invited to the Pan Am Games and the U.S. Women’s World Championships, where she eventually qualified for the national squad.

Tiana Sumanasekera’s thoughts and focus on the ’28 Olympics

Tiana Sumanasekera is full of passion and dedication as she looks forward to her new role as a senior member of the national squad. Her primary goals are to perform well in upcoming tournaments and make substantial contributions to her team. Her vital inspiration came from the advice and leadership of seasoned gymnasts like Jordan Chiles. Sumanasekera’s goals go beyond what she has accomplished thus far.

Tiana Sumanasekera believes that her moment is finally within reach after being motivated by athletes like Simone Biles and Jordan Chiles, who have achieved extraordinary longevity. Encouraged by the accomplishments of her role models, who are now in their mid-20s, Tiana aims high for the 2028 Olympics.

Furthermore, she stated, “I would love to try for the ’28 Olympics.” Noting importance and fun along the route towards the next Olympics, she expressed her joy mentioning, “I mean, whatever happens, happens, but that is the goal, and I’m just going to enjoy the process and have fun with it.” With an optimistic outlook, Tiana is committed to her personal development and eager to take on new challenges as she moves closer to the 2028 Olympics. She also plans to enjoy every moment of the journey.