Gabby Douglas gives her take on TikTok being banned in the US

Former Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas reacted to the ban imposed on the social media app TikTok by the American authorities. The app has been restricted in the USA on the government's directive due to security reasons.

Douglas shared a screenshot of TikTok not working on her sister's phone, captioning her Instagram story as:

"My sister was the first to go."

Screengrab of Gabby Douglas' Instagram Story [Image Source: Douglas' Instagram]

A statement from TikTok on the ban proclaimed:

"We regret that a U.S. law banning TikTok will take effect on January 19 and force us to make our services temporarily unavailable. We're working to restore our service in the U.S. as soon as possible, and we appreciate your support. Please stay tuned."

Gabby Douglas wasn't the only athlete to react on the ban. Several celebrities like Stephen Nedoroscik, Ilona Maher, Coco Gauff etc. had mixed reactions on the app being banned in the US.

While some like Nedoroscik were disappointed, others like Gauff revealed that this would allow them more time to do productive things, like read books for instance.

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Gabby Douglas on not making it to the Paris Olympics

2024 Core Hydration Classic - Source: Getty

Gabby Douglas was all set to return to the gymnastics circuit with the Paris Olympics. But a training injury ruined her plans. However, the 29-year-old former Olympic champion has refused to give up on her career. In an Instagram post made in June 2024, Douglas wrote:

"Wow, what a journey. First off, I just wanted to say that I am forever grateful for all of your support, grace, and love. It truly has touched my heart. I’m sad to say that due to a foot injury during practice, I will not be able to continue my 2024 journey. This may be the end of this chapter but not the end of my gymnastics story."

Douglas further added in the post:

"Thank you all for being with me on this journey and lifting me up on my lowest days. I love you all so much! Sending all the best to the girls tonight! Always cheering USA on!"

Gabby Douglas had created history when she became the first African American woman to win the Olympic gold medal in the individual all-around category at the London Olympics in 2012.

Douglas further contributed to USA's gold medal performance in the team all-around event at both the London Olympics and the Rio Olympics. The 29-year-old gymnast may look to make it to the team for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.