Suni Lee, a decorated Olympic gymnast, has announced her return to the sport with aspirations of competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Games. The six-time medalist shared the news on social media on Tuesday, signaling a potential return to elite competition nearly two years after the Paris Olympics.
Lee, who won the all-around gold medal at the Tokyo Games in 2021, has been taking a break from gymnastics since the Paris competition. During this period, she explored endeavors in fashion and modeling. Her announcement, accompanied by a video of her back in the gym, suggests a renewed focus on her athletic career. "I know what I'm capable of," Lee stated in the clip. "I'm willing to do whatever it takes to get there. Back in the gym... we'll see."
This development comes as the Olympics are set to return to American soil in Los Angeles in 2028. Lee added to her announcement with the intriguing phrase, "This is more than a comeback, stay tuned."
Lee first gained widespread recognition in 2021 at the age of 18, securing the all-around gold and uneven bars bronze medals. Following her Olympic success, she experienced a surge in public attention, appearing on "Dancing with the Stars" and returning to her studies at Auburn University.
Her plans for future Olympics were significantly impacted in early 2023 when she was diagnosed with an unspecified, incurable kidney disease. The condition led to a six-month hiatus from the sport. Lee described experiencing swelling that resulted in a 40-pound weight gain, with initial medical assessments misattributing the symptoms to allergies. A kidney biopsy eventually confirmed the diagnosis. The health challenge presented both physical and mental hurdles, impacting her ability to train and compete and raising concerns about the future of her gymnastics career.
Despite the obstacles, Lee, with the support of her team, including Dr. Marcia Faustin, overcame her illness. She was recognized for her resilience, receiving the Comeback Athlete of the Year award at the 2025 ESPYs. Reflecting on her journey to the Paris Olympics, Lee previously commented on the challenges and the importance of the support she received. "I was just so happy I was able to overcome everything and keep working towards that goal. I’m happy that I had the support that I had, I wouldn’t be here without them."
Lee joins other members of the 2024 Olympic team, such as Jade Carey, who have returned to competition and are targeting the 2028 Games. The intentions of fellow prominent gymnast Simone Biles regarding a potential 2028 Olympic appearance remain unconfirmed.