Shilese Jones, an American gymnast, is aiming for the 2028 Olympics after missing out on Paris due to a left knee injury.
Jones, 22, posted on social media late Monday that she tore her ACL and meniscus in the knee while warming up for vault on the opening night of the United States Olympic trials last month.
Jones did put together a magnificent bars routine after the injury, but she withdrew from the competition and Olympic consideration the following day.
“My journey hasn’t been a simple one, and I’m still tackling obstacles as they come,” Jones claimed. “This pain is temporary, but the scars will only fuel me that much more as I continue to chase my dream.”
Jones was a major contender for a spot on the five-woman team that is expected to win gold in Tuesday night’s Olympic final. Jones has likely been the finest American gymnast other than Simone Biles during the previous three years, capturing six world championship medals, including silver and bronze in the all-around.
The Seattle, Washington native plans to continue competing at the elite level until 2028, when she will be 26, a year younger than Biles is today. The decision reflects a changing paradigm in women’s gymnastics, with competitors competing far into their twenties.
“Now, I’m shifting focus to the future and my next chapter ahead — which is why I’m excited to announce you will see me on the road to LA 2028,” the actress tweeted.