Gymnastics fans were eagerly anticipating Gabby Douglas' return to competition at the Winter Cup in Louisville, Kentucky, this weekend. However, the 2012 Olympic champion had to withdraw from the event after revealing on social media that she had tested positive for COVID-19.
Douglas, who last competed at the 2016 Olympics where she contributed to the American team's gold medal win, was set to participate in three out of the four events at the Winter Cup. Despite her disappointment at having to pull out, the 28-year-old gymnast expressed her determination to return to competition soon.
The Winter Cup serves as a crucial preparatory event for American gymnasts aiming to secure a spot on this summer's Olympic team. While Douglas will be absent, fans can still look forward to seeing reigning Olympic champion Suni Lee in action on the beam and uneven bars. Lee, who has been dealing with health issues that have impacted her training, will be making her first competitive appearance since the 2023 U.S. Championships.
Other notable competitors at the Winter Cup include former NCAA champion Trinity Thomas and two-time world championship gold medalist Skye Blakely. The event promises to showcase the talent and skills of these elite gymnasts as they gear up for the upcoming Olympic Games.
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