Aly Raisman Addresses Comeback Speculation After Simone Biles’ Misunderstood Comment
Aug 9, 2016; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Aly Raisman (USA) competes during the women's team finals in the Rio 2016 Summer Olympic Games at Rio Olympic Arena. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 9, 2016; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Aly Raisman (USA) competes during the women's team finals in the Rio 2016 Summer Olympic Games at Rio Olympic Arena. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
2026 has been the comeback year for many gymnasts by now. And gymnastics icon Simone Biles almost included her Olympic peer, Aly Raisman, in that list.
“Happy Olympic Day, still doesn’t feel real that this girl’s dream came true,” Raisman’s celebratory Instagram caption read on June 23, Olympic Day, featuring a childhood photo of hers. To which Biles replied, “girlllll I thought this was your comeback announcement.”
Biles and Raisman competed together once, at the 2016 Rio Games as part of the "Final Five," becoming the most decorated American gymnastics team in history with 9 Olympic medals.
However, with 6 Olympic medals across 2 appearances, Raisman officially retired in 2020 to prioritize her physical and mental health after a gruelling career.
But Biles, who competed last at the 2024 Paris Games and summed up her career with a total of 11 Olympic and 30 Worlds medals, seemed excited about Raisman’s return. And maybe this could’ve been a “if you jump, I’ll jump” moment between the two.
However, it was only a speculation and a misunderstanding on Biles’ end. And Raisman didn't hesitate to burst the bubble.
Aly Raisman Denied a Comeback Possibility
Her official retirement in 2020 says otherwise about any potential return. Plus, the former gymnast would be 34 during the 2028 LA Games. And if all these factors weren’t enough, there was Raisman’s confirmation.
“lololol I’m not as cool as @katelyn_ohashi,” replied Raisman, referring to the former UCLA gymnast who has just announced her elite comeback on June 24 after 7-years being away from the mats. She’s training at the Pacific Reign gymnastics.
Moreover, no one can blame Biles for the misunderstanding. Her rival, Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade, also made a gold-winning comeback at the 2026 Pan American Games after 2 years of respite.
Biles’ Paris peer Jade Carey is also making an elite return at the American Classics, set for this Saturday. So, no wonder Biles was ready to look forward to Raisman’s return. Except, she isn’t hitting the mats anytime soon.
But do you think she could make a return should she choose to? Let us know in the comments.
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Written by
Deblina Roy