Suni Lee, 23, announced on July 14 that she is returning to gymnastics after a break following the 2024 Paris Olympics. [1, 2, 3] Lee shared a video on Instagram with the caption "I'm back" and said, "I know what I’m capable of. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to get there." [4, 1, 2, 3, 5] She intends to prepare for her third Olympic Games appearance in Los Angeles in 2028, about two years from her announcement date. [4, 1, 2, 3, 5]
Lee won three medals at each of her first two Olympics. At Tokyo 2020, she earned all-around gold, team silver, and uneven bars bronze. At Paris 2024, she won team gold, all-around bronze, and uneven bars bronze. [4, 2, 3] Overall, Lee has six Olympic medals to her name. [4, 1, 2, 5]
Her gymnastics career was interrupted in April 2023 after a sudden onset of severe kidney disease cut short her collegiate gymnastics at Auburn University. [2] Lee plans to resume training at Midwest Gymnastics in Minnesota, the elite club where she has long trained. [2]
Lee is the third member of the 2024 U.S. Olympic gymnastics team to announce her return to elite competition. Teammates Jade Carey and Hezly Rivera have already resumed training, with Carey winning two gold medals at the American Classic in late June. [2, 3] Former collegiate and elite gymnast Katelyn Ohashi also announced a comeback for 2028 and competed recently at the American Classic, joking, "I’m pretty much a senior citizen." [2, 3]
Simone Biles, the most decorated U.S. gymnast, has not yet confirmed her 2028 plans but has indicated there is a 50% chance she will compete. [3]
Lee’s return marks a significant step as she looks to regain elite form ahead of the 2028 Games in roughly two years. Her Instagram post makes clear her determination: "I’m willing to do whatever it takes to get there." [2]
