Jade Carey confirmed on 5 July 2026 that she will chase another Olympic medal and step into a mentorship position for the U.S. women's gymnastics team ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Games. The two‑time Olympic gold‑medalist spoke candidly about training adjustments, mental preparation, and her vision for the next generation.
What sparked the comeback?
After a season focused on brand partnerships and media work, Carey said a lingering desire to compete drove her back to the gym. "I missed the feeling of nailing a vault on the world stage," she explained. The decision came after consulting with head coach Laurent Landi, who assured her that a tailored program could bring her back to peak form without overtaxing her body.
How will her new role differ?
Carey will serve as a senior athlete advisor for USA Gymnastics, a role created to bridge elite competitors and up‑and‑coming talent. She will lead weekly technique clinics, offer feedback during national team camps, and help shape the team’s strategic approach to vault and floor routines. "It's about giving back while still chasing my own dreams," she noted.
What are the performance targets?
The gymnast set a clear benchmark: to place in the top three on vault at the 2027 World Championships, the primary qualifier for LA 2028. She also aims to improve her floor execution score to at least 9.300, a figure she missed by a tenth in her last major outing. "Those numbers keep me honest," Carey said.
Why does this matter for Team USA?
Carey's experience adds depth to a squad that lost veteran power after the Tokyo cycle. Her presence offers a tangible example of longevity and resilience, qualities the coaching staff hopes will filter down to younger athletes like Katelyn Jong and eMikaela Kelly. "Having someone who’s been there and succeeded gives the team a confidence boost," Landi remarked.
What’s the timeline?
Training ramps up immediately, with a focus on vault difficulty upgrades slated for September. A series of domestic meets in early 2027 will serve as dress rehearsals before the World Championships in Stuttgart on 2 November 2027. Success there would lock her into the LA 2028 roster, cementing her dual role as competitor and mentor.
How is she balancing media commitments?
Carey signed a multi‑year deal with a major sports apparel brand earlier this year. The contract includes clauses that allow flexible scheduling, letting her prioritize training blocks. "My sponsors understand this is a unique chapter," she said, adding that her visibility will help promote gymnastics ahead of the home‑games hype.
What challenges lie ahead?
Returning after a hiatus brings injury risk, especially on high‑impact vaults. Carey will incorporate low‑impact conditioning and yoga to safeguard her joints. She also acknowledges the mental pressure of living up to past successes while nurturing younger gymnasts.
What does the future look like?
If Carey lands her comeback vaults at Stuttgart, she could become the first U.S. gymnast to compete in three separate Olympic cycles since Shannon Miller. Her advisory role could set a precedent for athlete‑led development programs within USA Gymnastics, potentially reshaping how future Olympians are cultivated.
How can fans follow her journey?
Carey will document her training on Instagram and TikTok, offering behind‑the‑scenes looks at skill drills and recovery routines. Fans can also tune into USA Gymnastics’ live streams of the upcoming national team camps, where she’ll be a regular presence.
The path ahead is demanding, but Jade Carey’s blend of ambition and mentorship promises to energize both her own Olympic quest and the broader U.S. gymnastics landscape.