Suni Lee returning to gymnastics: American star eyes third Olympics at 2028 LA games

Suni Lee is back in the gym and chasing history. The American gymnastics standout announced her return to elite training on Tuesday, around two years before the Los Angeles Olympics. The 23-year-old 2020 Olympic all-around champion and six-time Olympic medalist posted a video on Instagram confirming she is ready to resume work and pursue a third Games appearance.

Details about the announcement

Suni Lee shared the news directly with followers through a simple yet powerful Instagram video. In it, she revealed she is back training and eager to get to work. The post has already sparked excitement across the gymnastics world. After taking time away following the 2024 Paris Olympics, Lee is the latest member of that gold-medal team to signal plans for 2028. Fellow champion Jade Carey has already returned to competition, and now Lee joins her in eyeing the home Games.

She announced her return with a caption, "I am back."

A remarkable journey filled with resilience

Suni Lee burst onto the world stage at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. She captured all-around gold, becoming the first Hmong-American to win the event, while also earning team silver and uneven bars bronze. Her path to Paris 2024 was even more inspiring. Battling kidney disease that forced breaks from training, she fought her way back and delivered again. In Paris, she helped the US women win team gold and added individual bronze medals in the all-around and uneven bars.

Those six Olympic medals tell only part of her story. Lee has become a role model for perseverance, showing young athletes that setbacks do not have to end dreams. Her return now adds another layer to a career already marked by courage and excellence.

What Suni Lee’s comeback means for US gymnastics

Suni Lee’s decision strengthens the outlook for the American team heading into 2028. The Los Angeles Games will mark the first time the US hosts the Summer Olympics since 1996, creating a special atmosphere for home athletes. With Lee and Carey potentially in the mix, the squad gains valuable experience and star power.

Emerging talents will also benefit from training alongside proven champions. Lee’s presence could help bridge the gap between Paris veterans and the next generation, keeping the US among the world’s top gymnastics nations.

Now that she is back in the gym, Lee will focus on rebuilding skills, strength, and timing. At 23, she remains in prime competitive years, and her Olympic experience gives her a clear advantage. The process will require smart training and attention to both physical and mental health, areas Lee has navigated carefully throughout her career.