Viral Sensation Katelyn Ohashi Announces Elite Gymnastics Comeback

Sports Money Viral Sensation Katelyn Ohashi Announces Elite Gymnastics Comeback By Caroline Price,

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Olympic Sports Analyst and Published Author Follow Author Jun 24, 2026, 12:06am EDTJun 24, 2026, 12:14am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Summary Katelyn Ohashi, once an Olympic hopeful and later a viral UCLA gymnastics star, has announced her return to competitive gymnastics. This marks her first competition in over seven years and elite routine in 13, as she pursues a childhood dream. Ohashi is celebrated for her authenticity, having spoken out against toxic coaching before finding joy and viral fame with UCLA's perfect-10 routines. Her comeback at age 29, following Simone Biles' lead, challenges traditional age limits in the sport. Ohashi, who once defeated Biles, now aims to qualify for the 2026 World Championships, with the gymnastics community eagerly awaiting her potential appearance at upcoming qualifiers like the American Classic.

FORT WORTH, TX - APRIL 20: Katelyn Ohashi #711 of the UCLA Bruins performs a floor routine during the Division I Women's Gymnastics Championship held at the Fort Worth Convention Center Arena on April 20, 2019 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo by Timothy Nwachukwu/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)NCAA Photos via Getty ImagesIn 2013, Katelyn Ohashi was the next great Olympic hope for American gymnastics. Five years later, she captivated millions worldwide, achieving perfection and viral fame on the intercollegiate stage for UCLA Gymnastics. Now, gymnastics is pulling her back in.