The world of sports often sees several celebrated sportspersons take an astonishingly early retirement. While many choose to say goodbye to the sport forever, others give in to their inner calling and make a comeback. A US wrestling sensation has decided to do the same and come out of retirement after four long years. 

Hayley Augello is a 29-year-old freestyle wrestler who competed in the 48kg weight class. The wrestling sensation decided to part ways with the sport at the age of 25. Now, the former Olympian will be stepping back on the mats and competing again. In fact, Augello is very keen on bagging a spot for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

The return of Hayley Augello to the wrestling mat

Hayley Augello is an accomplished American wrestler who boasts an Olympic appearance at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Augello put up a strong competition in the 48kg category in Rio and stood seventh overall in freestyle wrestling. Hailing from Lockport, Illinois, Augello will now resume her wrestling journey and make her way to the Olympic trials. The 29-year-old will now compete in the 53kg weight class instead of 48kg, as she’ll fight her first bout in four years.

Hayley Augello has her sights set on the upcoming Bill Farrell Memorial International on the 17th and 18th of November. The domestic tournament will bolster her chances of making it to the Olympic trials which will be held in April next year. Speaking to FloWrestling, the 29-year-old said that she returned because she didn’t wish to live with any regrets. She even attended the world championships in Belgrade this year, which made her homesick for the wrestling mats.

According to Augello, “Being at the World Championships this year was so electric and it’s hard to shove (those feelings) back down.” The wrestling star also added that she has been keeping track of all major tournaments and also watched the Tokyo Olympics. But now, she wants to be a part of everything again. In fact, she said that she would also take part in the 2028 Olympics in LA.

A full-throttle, reverse gear for a long haul this time

Hayley Augello mentioned that she is back for the long haul this time. She stated, “I’m training again to compete and hopefully to make the 2024 Olympic team and potentially 2028, as well.” She said that she just woke up one day and didn’t want to overthink about lost opportunities. Looking forward to living every day to the fullest, the American decided to return to something she truly loves.

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Augello is currently training with the Izzy Style Wrestling in Illinois and is preparing for the Bill Farrell Memorial International. She has already won the 2011 Cadet World Champion and also bagged three WCWA Championship wins for King University. Moving forward to relive her Olympic Dream, the 29-year-old has resolved to give things a 110 percent effort. Excited to do everything right this time, Augello is set to re-establish as well as surpass herself in wrestling.

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