“A picture is worth a thousand words. This recovery has been one of the hardest journeys I’ve ever been through, and I couldn’t have done it without my tremendous support team.” Exactly a year ago, those were the heartfelt words shared by a 26-year-old Canadian gymnastics star in an emotional post marking her long-awaited return to the mat. Just a year prior, she had suffered a devastating full ACL tear, a minor femur fracture, and a small meniscus tear in her left leg in August 2023. As if that wasn’t enough, exactly a year later, she also fractured her foot. The road back came at a high cost—physically, emotionally, and personally.

Despite enduring a string of injuries, Denelle Pedrick never wavered in her resolve. Under the guidance of coach David Kikuchi at Halifax Alta Gymnastics Club in Nova Scotia, she followed a disciplined rehab and training regimen, determined to reclaim her place on the Canadian Olympic team for Paris. After all, she had been a vital part of Canada’s historic bronze-winning squad at the 2022 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships.

But the road to the Olympics proved more grueling than expected. She missed the mark in last year’s Olympic selection, yet made a stunning comeback in May 2024, finishing fourth in the women’s floor final at the Pan American Championships. It seemed she was finally finding her rhythm again—until fate threw another curveball. On June 10, Pedrick shared a heartfelt Instagram post that left the gymnastics world heartbroken.

“I was grateful to be back competing at Nationals this year, and everything felt great—until the final event of Day 2, when I sustained a right knee injury. Unfortunately, it’s been confirmed as a full ACL tear and will require surgery,” she revealed. The news sparked an outpouring of love and support from fans and fellow gymnasts. 

Among them was her longtime teammate Cassie Lee—an Olympian and Worlds veteran—who commented, “Keep your chin up, Denelle. 🫶 I know you’ll be back stronger than ever, sending all my love❤️.”  Lee’s words carried weight; she has shared the podium and the grind with Pedrick and knows the fire she carries within.

However, in her post, Pedrick didn’t just break the news—she shared a mindset forged in the flames of adversity. “Journey is far from linear, but I’m learning to trust it—even the setbacks,” she wrote. “Thank you all for the love and support. We don’t always understand the timing, but God’s purpose is greater than ours ✝️🙏.”  For the Brandon native, this isn’t unfamiliar territory.

Injuries may have interrupted her routines, but they’ve never dimmed her spirit. As more teammates added their voices of encouragement in the comments, it was clear: Pedrick’s story is far from over. She’s been here before—and every time, she’s come back stronger.

The gymnastics pro receives mental support 

“Wishing you a speedy recovery 🫶.” Those simple yet powerful words came from Gymnastics Canada Gymnastique, as the national federation joined the chorus of voices rallying behind Denelle Pedrick following the heartbreaking news of her injury. But it wasn’t just a gesture—it was a tribute to a gymnast who’s become a cornerstone of Canadian gymnastics over the years.

The tributes kept coming. Victory Gymnastics Center, where Denelle’s grit and character have long been admired, took to social media to shine a light on the kind of person she truly is: “You’re an inspiration to us all with your dedication and perseverance. Wishing you a speedy recovery ❤️‍🩹.” It was more than a message—it was a reminder of how deeply she’s impacted those around her, both on and off the mat.

One of the most heartfelt tributes came from Canadian-Haitian gymnast and coach Lynnzee Brown, who knows firsthand the highs and lows of elite sport. In a touching post, she wrote,  “Your determination is one of the many things that make you special. Wishing you space to heal to be the best version of you. ❤️.” At 26, just like Denelle, Brown’s words carried the weight of experience—and deep admiration.

Even her recent competitors couldn’t stay silent. Rebecca Lee, who went head-to-head with Denelle at the 2025 Canadian Gymnastics Championships, shared a message that blended respect and warmth: “ My thoughts and prayers are with you for a speedy recovery! Having a chance to compete with you this year was so amazing! ♥️.”

Injury may have sidelined Denelle for now, but the outpouring of support proves just how much she means to the gymnastics community. She’s more than just a medal-winning gymnast—she’s a symbol of perseverance, leadership, and grace under pressure. And judging by the love flooding in, her next comeback will have an entire nation behind her.