Gabby Douglas’s bond with her family runs so deep that at one point, she considered leaving gymnastics altogether because she was overwhelmed by homesickness. It was then her brother, Jonathan, who intervened at that time with a reminder, “I even gave up my ice skating lessons in eighth grade because Mom couldn’t afford to keep us both in a sport! “ His words sparked a pivotal moment of self-discovery for Gabby which made her pursue gymnastics further. Yet, beyond her connection with Jonathan, Gabby shares strong ties with her other siblings as well.

Everything about Gabby Douglas’s three siblings

Gabby Douglas was born on December 31, 1995, to parents Timothy Douglas and Natalie Hawkins. After her parents’ separation when she was young, Douglas was primarily raised by her mother, who bravely navigated single parenthood. Among her siblings, she is the youngest of four, with two older sisters named Arielle Hawkins and Joyelle Douglas, and an older brother, Jonathan Douglas, who also distinguished himself as a talented athlete, excelling as a top sprinter at Landstown High School.

Meanwhile, Gabby Douglas provided a profound insight into her family dynamics through the Oxygen reality series, “Douglas Family Gold,” released in May 2016. The show documented Gabby’s journey when she geared for the 2016 Rio Olympics, supported wholeheartedly by her family. She acknowledged her family’s immense contributions, “They encourage me, offer great advice, and bring laughter into my life.”

Reflecting on her mother’s profound impact, Gabby added, “[My mom] told me that it’s the times that I have fallen and gotten back up that inspire her the most. She always tells me that no matter the outcome, I am a champion in her eyes.” However, it was her sister Arienne who inspired her to pursue a career in gymnastics.

Gabby Douglas shared with Cosmopolitan that her sister, Arielle Hawkins played a significant role in her gymnastics journey. She expressed gratitude, acknowledging that her sister initially encouraged their mom to enroll her in gymnastics. Gabby highlighted her sister’s support and belief in her abilities, recalling moments when her sister encouraged her to persevere, even when she felt like giving up.

Gabby emphasized the invaluable advice and relatable perspective her sister provides, noting that she often turns to her for guidance. This testimony illustrates the profound impact of sibling support on Gabby’s path to success in gymnastics. Even Gabby serves as an inspiration to her sister, as Arielle Hawkins revealed.

“She inspires me every day to be better, to work for my dreams. Sometimes I put myself on the back burner and focus on everybody else. But she’s that one person that’s always like, ‘You can do it. Go after your dreams!’ She lives by it. She’s accomplished so much in her young life. No matter what the age, you can always be inspired by someone.” This reciprocal inspiration highlights the supportive dynamic between the siblings and emphasizes the power of encouragement in achieving personal aspirations.