"I’m devastated beyond words"-Shilese Jones recalls her injury at the U.S. Olympic Gymnastics trials as she announces her goal to compete at LA 2028 

Shilese Jones revealed her goal to compete at the Los Angeles Olympics scheduled in 2028 after pulling out of the U.S. Gymnastics Trials due to an injury.

Jones began the 2024 season on the podium at the U.S. Core Hydration Classic, where she finished second in the all-around. She began battling shoulder concerns following the competition and finally opted to withdraw from the Xfinity U.S. National Championships to focus on the U.S. Olympic Trials.

The 22-year-old suffered an injury on her left knee on Day 1 of the podium training at the U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials which ultimately led her to withdraw from the race to Paris altogether. As the Paris Olympics are underway, Jones released a statement regarding her goals as well as recalling some of the tough times of leaving her Olympic dreams unfulfilled.

"I’m devastated beyond words... 4 weeks ago I was ripped away from the biggest dream of my career. Unfortunately, I tore my ACL and meniscus just minutes before competing at my second Olympic Trials 💔 Despite the pain, the fighter in me still wanted to continue with competing on bars," she wrote.

Furthermore, she remained optimistic and expressed her goal to compete in the 2028 LA Olympics.

"My journey hasn’t been a simple one, and I’m still tackling obstacles as they come. This pain is temporary, but the scars will only fuel me that much more as I continue to chase my dream. Now, I’m shifting focus to the future and my next chapter ahead - which is why I’m excited to announce you will see me on the road to LA 2028," she added.

Shilese Jones receives support from Gabby Douglas encouraging her for

Gymnastics - 2024 Core Hydration Classic - Source: Getty

Gabby Douglas sent a heartfelt message to Shilese Jones after her withdrawal from the U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials, encouraging the gymnast for her future endeavors. She expressed that she believed Jones would be making a stronger comeback in the future.

"I’m completely heartbroken. @shicanfl no one deserved it more. I know you will come back stronger and greater. I am so proud of everything you’ve accomplished. sending you healing, warmth, and love," she wrote.

Jones will be undergoing recovery sessions for her injury before she gets back to the gym to pursue her Olympic dream once again.