Two-time world champion Kayla DiCello has provided an update on her recovery journey following an injury that unfortunately ended her hopes of competing at the Paris Olympics. The American gymnast revealed that she recently underwent another surgery to address the injury and expressed her eagerness to return to the gym as soon as possible.
After being named as an alternate for the Tokyo Olympics, DiCello marched onto the 2024 season aiming to qualify for the Paris Olympics. She won the Winter Cup which was the first gymnastics meet of the season followed by a third-place finish at the U.S. Gymnastics Championships.
However, tragedy struck DiCello while she was competing at the U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials. While performing a double-twisting Yurchenko, she fell onto the mat and had to be taken off on a wheelchair as she had ruptured her Achilles tendon. After rehabilitation, she returned to the gym to prepare for the upcoming NCAA season.
Amid the holiday season, DiCello took to Instagram to share her wish for Christmas and revealed that she had undergone one more surgery. The 20-year-old expressed her gratitude for being able to take small steps towards making a full recovery and being back in the gym.
"This year i’m asking Santa for two new feet! I’m so grateful to have been able to slowly take steps back into doing what I love. Unfortunately, I had another surgery. Everyone has a different journey in life and this is the plan God has for me. I’ll be back in the gym again soon 🤍," she wrote.
Kayla DiCello on missing out on the opportunity to compete at the Paris Olympics
Kayla DiCello took to Instagram to share her thoughts after the heartbreaking fall at the U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials. She reflected on her hard work over the years to reach the major stage.
Despite falling short of reaching her goal she expressed her elation about working towards her dream as well as learning new skills.
"Unfortunately, I ruptured my Achilles on the opening event at Olympic Trials. While this is not the result I envisioned, there’s so much to be proud of. Years of tireless work and dedication in the gym with the dream of representing my country once more at the Olympic Games. Pushing myself to go after new skills, new dreams," she wrote.
Furthermore, she thanked her teammates, coaches, and fans for their unwavering support which helped her survive through tough times.