American gymnast Shilese Jones, 22, has set her sights on the 2028 Olympics after a left knee injury dashed her hopes of competing in Paris. Jones took to social media to reveal that she tore her ACL and meniscus while warming up on the vault during the U.S. Olympic trials last month. Despite the setback, she delivered an impressive bars routine before withdrawing herself from consideration the following day.
In a message shared online, Jones reflected on the challenges she has faced and expressed determination to overcome them. She emphasized how the temporary pain from her injury will only serve to motivate her further as she pursues her Olympic aspirations. Jones, a standout gymnast who has amassed six world championship medals in the last three years, was a strong candidate for the U.S. Olympic team set to compete in the upcoming final.
Hailing from Seattle, Washington, Jones has her sights set on continuing to compete at an elite level through to the 2028 Olympics. Her decision aligns with a growing trend in women’s gymnastics, where athletes are extending their careers well into their 20s. Looking ahead, Jones is enthusiastic about the journey leading up to the Los Angeles Games in 2028, where she aims to make her mark on the sport once again.
