Gabby Douglas to make a long-awaited comeback after 8 years at the American Classic eyeing Paris Olympics berth

2012 Olympic Gold medalist Gabby Douglas is eyeing a competitive return to gymnastics at the American Classic 2024, which is scheduled from April 25-28. She will be making her first appearance in 8 years after having last competed at the 2016 Olympics.

Reports arrived in late 2022 that Gabby Douglas was looking to make a return to gymnastics after she was spotted in the gym with the WOGA training center's athletes. In July 2023, the 28-year-old confirmed her comeback aspirations via Instagram.

Douglas was all set for the return to glory at January's Winter Cup 2024. Unfortunate circumstances led to the former World Champion pulling out of the event after she tested positive for COVID-19. Later, the USA Gymnastics didn't name her on the 32-member team for the April national camp.

Speaking in an interview with NBC Olympics, Gabby Douglas claimed that she was gutted about not being able to attend the April camp, which could have secured her a place at the U.S. Championships. However, she added that her focus right now was on the American Classic.

“I was so sad that I couldn’t attend the April camp, but honestly, I’m looking forward to doing the American Classic and grateful to be back in the gym getting stronger, detailing the routines,” she claimed.

Douglass added that she was looking to take one step at a time, and importantly enjoy the process.

"What I really want for myself is to take things one step at a time and go out on a note of joy,” Douglas said.

The 28-year-old will become the oldest U. S Olympic female gymnast since 1952 if she secures a berth at Paris 2024. Douglas could also join the elite list of American gymnasts to compete at 3 Olympic Games where Simone Biles is also expected to add her name.

Gabby Douglas was ‘sad’ after missing out on Winter Cup 2024

Gymnastics - Artistic - Olympics: Day 2

While Gabby Douglas confirmed her ambitions to make a competitive return to gymnastics in July last year, the Olympic champion would get the perfect opportunity only in January 2024 at the Winter Cup. However, it wasn't to be for the ‘Final Five’ member.

The 28-year-old claimed that she was feeling ‘very fired before the Winter Cup, also adding her breaths had started shortening.

Prior to the Winter Cup I was feeling very tired, very gassed,” Douglas told NBC Olympics. “I was like, ‘Why is my breathing restricted?’ I did a lot of resting after that … I was so sad I couldn’t be there and it was rough during that week, but I’m feeling great, back in training and going to be out on the floor soon.”

So would the American gymnastics community hope Douglas soon touches the mat at the American Classic.