U.S. Gymnastics Team Prepares for 2028 Olympics

The upcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles marks a significant event for the U.S. gymnastics team, as it will be their first time competing on home soil since 1996. Interestingly, there’s a possibility that Simone Biles, a key figure in gymnastics since 2012, might not be part of the team this time around.

Shawn Johnson, who secured one of the U.S.’s two gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Games, commented on the team’s prospects without Biles. “Historically, the USA is the most dominant gymnastics team we’ve ever seen, and always has been, so I have the most confidence in the USA gymnastics team,” she shared.

With less than two years to go before the competition, Johnson expressed her thoughts on the likelihood of the U.S. team clinching gold without Biles. The anticipation is palpable, but there’s a lot to consider, really.

“Simone is certainly the greatest of all time and has secured her legacy,” Johnson noted. “But she also set a standard that’s going to have lasting effects on our sport.” It’s clear she has a lot of respect for Biles, and perhaps a bit of wistfulness, too.

As for attending the games, Johnson plans to be there, which is, I think, quite exciting. When asked which gymnast she’s looking forward to seeing, she simply said, “I’m a big believer in the little guys that are coming up… so all of them.” It’s nice to see her support for the younger athletes.

On a serious note, Johnson emphasized the importance of health for aspiring female gymnasts. “I would advise young gymnasts aiming for the Olympics to genuinely listen to your body,” she stated. “Many push themselves to extremes, and it’s crucial to prioritize your well-being, both mentally and physically.” That resonates, doesn’t it?

A landmark change in the upcoming Olympics is that, for the first time, women’s events will precede the men’s. This shift is notable, as it highlights the evolving nature of gymnastics.

However, the U.S. women’s gymnastics team faced challenges recently, with a disappointing outcome at the world championships, managing only two medals and no golds—the lowest total since 2001. Lian Wong and Jocelyn Roberson secured silver and bronze, respectively, but it wasn’t enough to signify a strong showing.

Despite some highlights, like good individual performances, it appears improvement is necessary. Chelsea Memmel, leading U.S. programming, remarked on the mixed results from the championships, highlighting both progress and areas requiring work. There’s a sense that they can bounce back, though.

Notably, since 2006, this is the first time the U.S. did not dominate the women’s medal count, except for a couple of years. The team that featured Biles, Suni Lee, Jade Carey, and Jordan Chiles in Paris didn’t officially represent the U.S. at the championships, making their past success even more interesting.

As for Biles, she hasn’t completely ruled out a return for the 2028 Games, although she’s taking a break from gymnastics for now. “I don’t know what 2028 will bring, but I want to be there in some way,” she said. There’s a sense of uncertainty, but a desire to stay involved, which is refreshing.