“Wasn’t What I Wanted”: Devastating Fall Makes Suni Lee Cheer Herself Up With a Bold Winter Cup Claim

Suni Lee, the 2020 Olympic all-around champion, has faced a challenging year marked by health issues. Still, her determination to make a strong comeback was evident at the Gymnastics Winter Cup 2024. While her performance didn’t go as planned and slipped thrice in two routines, Lee’s positive spirit and resilience were on display.

Struggling in uneven bars and balance beam routines, Lee maintained composure, and even though disappointed, she had a brave smile on. Speaking with the media after the event, Lee expressed, “It obviously wasn’t what I wanted, but in all honesty, I think that it’s good that it happened here rather than somewhere else. Like, you can’t get anywhere without failing“, as shared by Scott Bregman’s handle on X. 

Last year, Lee had to withdraw from the US World Championship and Pan American Games selection due to kidney-related health issues. However, she seemed to be back in good health and high spirits leading up to the Gymnastics Winter Cup 2024 championship. Despite her struggles, she appeared optimistic following a six-week training session. However, her return to the competition took an unexpected turn during the event’s third rotation.

Suni Lee’s devastating fall

The 2020 Olympic all-around champion struggled throughout her first routine on uneven bars, and a similar story followed up in her 2nd routine on balance beams. Lee fell thrice in her two routines. She struggled for a grip on the uneven bar at the start of her routine, and after restarting, the 20-year-old couldn’t latch onto it after a body swing.

Although she made a spectacular landing later, the reigning world champion could only be awarded 11.800 points. Looking to make a comeback on the balance beam, Lee made a great start to her routine. But as she attempted for an aerial somersault, the 20-year-old fell once again.

READ MORE: Suni Lee Nearly Escapes Injury Just Before Gymnastics Winter Cup 2024 Appearance

Lee slipped off the beam and dismounted after only doing a layout. She was awarded 12.900 points, placing her 13th in the discipline standings. It wasn’t the best day for her. As the Winter Cup 2024 unfolds, all eyes are on the remarkable comeback of a 20-year-old athlete. Although her dream to qualify for the Baku World Cup hangs by a thread, she remains determined to overcome all obstacles. Despite grappling to regain her Midas touch, Lee is in good health and high spirits, hoping for a better year ahead. What are your thoughts on Suni Lee’s comeback? Let us know in the comments below!