Two years after stepping away from gymnastics to prioritize her physical and mental well-being, Suni Lee announced that she is ready to return. The Olympic all-around champion from Tokyo 2020 confirmed her return to training with a message that quickly captured the attention of the sports world: “I’m back.” At 23 years old, the American gymnast begins a new chapter with a clear goal: arriving at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games at her best and pursuing what would be her third appearance at the world’s biggest sporting event.
Lee’s return represents much more than the comeback of one of artistic gymnastics’ biggest stars. Her story is defined by overcoming challenges both on and off the competition floor. After winning six Olympic medals between Tokyo and Paris, the gymnast faced chronic kidney disease as well as episodes of depression and self-doubt that led her to step away from the sport. Now, with renewed motivation, she is determined to once again demonstrate the level that made her one of the leading figures in world gymnastics.
A comeback built on resilience
The last time Suni Lee competed was at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where she once again proved her quality. She helped the United States win the team gold medal while also earning two bronze medals in the individual all-around and uneven bars. That performance added to an outstanding career that already included the historic individual all-around gold medal she won at Tokyo 2020, when she stunned the world by becoming Olympic champion at just 18 years old.
Behind those achievements, however, was a silent battle. In 2023, she was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, which completely disrupted her preparation. On top of that, she experienced mental health challenges that she later revealed had affected her between the Tokyo and Paris Olympic cycles. Together, those difficulties led her to step away from competition to focus on her recovery, making a comeback built on patience, self-care, and determination even more meaningful.
Los Angeles 2028 as the ultimate goal
The announcement came through a video posted on her social media, where she shared footage of herself training in the gym again alongside a message that reflected her confidence heading into this new chapter. “I know what I’m capable of. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to make it happen. Back in the gym. We’ll see. This is more than a comeback. Stay tuned,” Lee wrote, making it clear that her ambitions extend far beyond simply competing again and that her sights are firmly set on the Olympic Games on home soil.
With this decision, Suni Lee becomes the latest member of the United States team that shone at Paris 2024 to confirm her intention of competing at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Jade Carey has already returned to competition after taking time away, while the biggest question mark remains Simone Biles, who has yet to decide whether she will pursue another Olympic appearance. In that context, Lee’s return adds a new layer of excitement on the road to Los Angeles, where the United States women’s gymnastics team could once again bring together several of its biggest stars in its quest to remain at the top of the sport.
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