Three-time Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas is celebrated for her historic achievements. But besides winning on stage, she also proved triumphant on a more personal front.

Douglas shared her struggles with hair damage a few years ago on Instagram. She attributed the situation to years of intense gymnastics training.

The Olympian shared a photo of her long natural hair from behind, with a caption entailing her story.

"From a very young age, I always had to put my hair in a tight ponytail to do gymnastics," she stated. "And due to that, my hair became completely damaged.”

Douglas added how this took a toll on her confidence.

“I was so embarrassed and self-conscious that I put a bunch of clips over the spots to try and cover them up," she wrote.

Her struggle further intensified after she cut all her hair. A moment that evoked a lot of questions and disappointment.

"Most days I didn't even want to go to the gym because I felt so embarrassed that all my hair was gone," she recalled.

However, amidst everything, she showcased her resilience and kept moving forward.

She went on to celebrate herself for having persevered through the situation. Notably, this period coincided with her collecting accolades in multiple competitions, including three World Championship medals.

"Now here I am today - no extensions - no clip-ins - no wigs - no chemicals - all me."

Fans praised her for being brave and showing vulnerability online. In a separate post, Douglas expressed her gratitude for the immense support she received.

“I've been reading your comments on my last post, and I want to thank you for all of your kind & supportive words," she stated.

She also posted a picture of herself sporting long, blond strands.

"I am forever grateful to have this platform to inspire and encourage u all," she said.

Besides her gymnastic legacy and numerous accolades, Douglas' personal story also serves as a huge inspiration. And she seems keen to add to her legacy, possibly closer to home.

What are Gabby’s Plans for the Future?

Gabby Douglas has forged a remarkable career. In 2012, she became the first African American woman to win an all-around title at the London Olympics.

At Rio 2016, Douglas was part of the U.S. women's gymnastics team, famously known as the "Final Five," alongside Simone Biles. She added to her Olympic haul by winning the team gold.

After an ankle injury sidelined her for Paris 2024, she immediately set her eyes on the LA Olympics in 2028. Speaking to People magazine in 2024, she expressed her intent to compete on home soil.

“I know it’s four years away, but I’m looking forward to it,” she stated.

She expressed her excitement for the event and for continuing to represent her country.

“Still representing the USA, still continuing to do gymnastics, so I'm excited,” she added.

While acknowledging that she will be 32 at the tournament, the gymnast had no intentions of letting age slow her down. She stated that a proper diet and structure will enable her to perform to the best of her ability.

“I feel like at this point, age is really just a number because my body can still do amazing things even at 28,” she said.

This, along with her longevity in the sport, leaves little doubt for a comeback. With the Summer Olympics just over two years away, it will be exciting to watch her perform again on the floor.

Read more at the Gymnastics Digest!

Written by

Sebi Mehta

Edited by

Sijo Paul