Suni Lee, the reigning Olympic all-around gymnastics champion, has announced her departure from competitive gymnastics due to an incurable kidney disease. The 21-year-old star, who captivated the world with her extraordinary performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, made the heartbreaking announcement through a social media post on Tuesday.
Lee, who has been a beacon of hope and inspiration for many, revealed that she has been battling a severe kidney condition for several months. Despite her efforts to manage the illness and continue training, her medical team advised that she must step away from the sport to focus on her health.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce my departure from competitive gymnastics,” Lee wrote. “I have been diagnosed with an incurable kidney disease, and my doctors have advised that I prioritize my health above all else. This has been the hardest decision of my life, but I know it’s the right one.”
Lee’s departure marks a significant loss for the gymnastics community. Her journey from a young gymnast in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Olympic champion has been nothing short of extraordinary. She is celebrated not only for her athletic prowess but also for her resilience and dedication.
Fans and fellow athletes have flooded social media with messages of support and admiration. Simone Biles, a fellow gymnast and close friend, tweeted, “Heartbroken for Suni. Her health is the most important thing, and I know she will face this challenge with the same strength she showed on the mat. We love you, Suni.”
The gymnastics world will undoubtedly feel the absence of Lee’s exceptional talent. As she steps away to focus on her health, she leaves behind a legacy of perseverance and excellence. Her story serves as a reminder of the incredible resilience of athletes and the importance of prioritizing health above all else.
While her competitive career may be over, Suni Lee’s impact on the sport and her inspirational journey will continue to resonate with fans and aspiring gymnasts worldwide.
