Gymnastics fans from all over the world are gathering in Jakarta, Indonesia, for the 2025 World Gymnastics Championships. This is a big deal since it’s the first time this event is taking place in Southeast Asia. This year, there’s no team event on the calendar, so all eyes are on the individual athletes as they compete for the all-around and apparatus world titles at the Indonesia Arena. It’s such an exciting vibe with both experienced pros and up-and-coming talents going head-to-head on one of the biggest stages in the sport, all trying to make their mark in history.

In the midst of the intense competition, American gymnast Donnell Whittenburg wrote a story of perseverance and triumph that resonated with everyone in the sport. As reported by Kensley Behel on X, “Donnell Whittenburg is World Champion on Still Rings.” She added a crucial note on the significance of the victory, stating, “I believe this is the first gold for USA Gymnastics on still rings at a World Championships.”

At 31 years old, Whittenburg has made history as the first American man to win a world title on the still rings. It’s an incredible achievement that highlights a career full of determination and grit. Whittenburg’s journey to this gold medal wasn’t exactly a smooth ride. He was an alternate for the Olympics twice and ended up tearing his Achilles tendon a little over a year before the championships in September 2024.

Also, his sixth appearance at these world championships puts him on par with the legendary Simone Biles for the most by an American gymnast, highlighting his commitment and lasting presence in the sport. And after six showings, he nailed it with his victory, beating a tough lineup that had the 2022 World Champion, Adem Asil from Turkey (14.566), and the 2021 Champion, Lan Xingyu from China (14.500).

This world title isn’t just a win for Whittenburg; it’s a big moment for USA Gymnastics as a whole. He just made history for the United States by winning a gold medal in the still rings event at the World Gymnastics Championships. But with the way he’s performing right now, that gymnast might just pull off another record.

Donnell Whittenburg opens up about his big dream

Donnell Whittenburg stood out at the World Gymnastics Championships, and it was a great day for the American team in Jakarta. His teammates, Joscelyn Roberson, snagged a bronze in women’s vault, and Patrick Hoopes also brought home a bronze on the pommel horse.

Whittenburg’s win at 31 is nothing short of impressive. It also makes him the oldest American to compete at a gymnastics worlds in over 35 years, breaking those old stereotypes about when gymnasts are at their best.

But his story isn’t over yet. Whittenburg, who has endured a series of “What ifs” and “Almosts” when it came to making the US Olympic teams, has shared that he’s not letting the dream die. The goal is Los Angeles 2028.

“I just want to be able to say that yes, I competed at the Games. There’ve been so many times I’ve been close – but not quite. I’m still here because I believe I can get there,” Whittenburg said. If he makes the team, he’ll be the oldest U.S. Olympic gymnast since 1952, showing that for some athletes, the peak of their career is still out there, just waiting to be reached.