"Obviously 2028 is the goal"- Gabby Douglas opens up on ambitions after heartbreaking injury that shattered her Paris Olympic dream

After her withdrawal from the U.S. Classic ended her dream to make a comeback at the Paris Olympics 2024, Gabby Douglas has set her sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The American gymnast said she had returned to training after a major setback in the Olympic year.

Douglas took the gymnastics world by storm when she announced that she would be ending her eight-year hiatus from the sport and returning at the Paris Olympics. After making her first appearance at the American Classic, she qualified for the Core Hydration Classic.

The event did not go according to plan as Douglas fell twice during her routine on the uneven bars. Although she completed her routine, it was later announced that the former Olympic medalist had withdrawn from the event, thereby missing out on a chance to qualify for the U.S. National Championships. It also ended her Paris Olympic dream.

Speaking to E News about returning after the setback, Gabby Douglas recently said she hopes to compete at the LA Olympics in 2028.

"Before championships, I had a spill on the beam and I hurt my ankle. It’s just getting back to normal healing at this point. So, I’m just taking it one day at a time and it’s off-season, so I’m just getting back into it. Right now, I’m playing around with my skills and my routines. I’ll take it from there, we’ll see. But obviously, ‘28 is the goal, but I’m trying not to get super overwhelmed. It’s also four years out and we can see where things go from here," she said.

Gabby Douglas on her withdrawal earlier in 2024

Gabby Douglas- Gymnastics - 2024 Core Hydration Classic - Source: Getty

Right after her ankle injury, Gabby Douglas took to Instagram to express her thoughts on missing out on the opportunity to compete at the Paris Olympics. She assured her fans that this setback would not end her gymnastics journey.

"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.This may be the end of this chapter but not the end of my gymnastics story," Douglas wrote.

Moreover, she thanked her fans for their support and encouragement in such a tough time.