Competing as an Olympic gymnast is challenging. It takes a physical and mental toll on athletes, which is why it is impressive to see those who are considered older continue to shine.
In 2016, Needham, Massachusetts' Aly Raisman became the oldest American woman to ever win a gold medal in Olympic gymnastics, at 22 years old. When the U.S. women won the all-around in Paris this week, Raisman relinquished that title, which now belongs to her former teammate, 27-year-old Simone Biles.
Get top local stories in Connecticut delivered to you every morning. Sign up for NBC Connecticut's News Headlines newsletter.
An unfortunate shadow was cast over the two-time gold medalist's love for the sport after she came forward as one of the many victims of Larry Nassar, the former Olympic team physician, who was arrested in 2017 for sexual abuse. Raisman filed a lawsuit against USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Olympic Committee after Nassar's sentencing.
Raisman retired in 2020, and it was unclear whether or not she would continue in the gymnastics industry. But she has remained a strong presence in the world of gymnastics, and in January, joined ESPN as an NCAA gymnastics broadcast analyst.
Now 30, Raisman has proven her versatility by commentating on collegiate gymnastics meets, speaking from years of experience while providing wisdom and entertainment for audience members of all backgrounds.
Raisman's return to the media world brought about new revelations about a major challenge she faced. On a recent appearance of the "Call Her Daddy" podcast, Raisman revealed that she was hospitalized on two occasions since 2020 due to "stroke-like symptoms," contributing to her battle with post-traumatic stress disorder related to health care professionals.
Since her medical emergency, Raisman has focused on her mental health, avoiding stress and prioritizing her well-being. She is open about going to therapy and looks to eliminate the stigma that surrounds it.
And at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Raisman has been an official hospitality ambassador, taking part in interviews and watching the events from a new perspective.
