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via Imago

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via Imago

It was a difficult sight for the gymnastics community, which had just tuned into the World University Games to enjoy the swings of the sport. But the swing that came knocked a lot out of everybody. The year had marked this star in a number 4 position at the 2025 World Cup in Cottbus, Germany, but the next thing fate had for this young international gymnast was gruesome. He soared through the air in his rings routine, but the final moment turned tragic. On the triple-back dismount, something went wrong. He came down hard, his neck snapping against the mat. The arena froze. Motionless, still. First responders rushed in, working quickly to stabilize him. A stretcher carried the young gymnast to Essen University Hospital, where surgeons performed emergency cervical spine surgery. But there was more to be done…

After surgery, Lorenzo Bonicelli was placed in a medically induced coma to control swelling around his fifth cervical vertebra—a critical step to protect his spinal cord. But a heavy cloud of uncertainty hung over everything. Would he be okay? Had the trauma caused lasting neurological damage? His family must have been devastated. For his sister, the hours must have stretched like days. But she has answered the question of the gymnastics community, and she has an update on her brother.

She took to Instagram today to post a picture where she could be seen holding his hand fitted with an IV cannula. “Thank you all for the love you are giving us in these difficult days, we are here in Germany to give it to Lorenzo. The situation is stable, but now a new and delicate phase awaits us. Heartfelt thanks to those who will continue to be there: your support, in any form, will be crucial. #insiemeaBonni,” wrote Gloria Bonicelli, the sister of Lorenzo Bonicelli.

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This comes as a relief to the concerned gymnastics community. Lorenzo Bonicelli is not alone now, as alongside his sister, he has his girlfriend as well, and she has also sent out a message.

Lorenzo Bonicelli’s girlfriend drops a health update about the gymnast

“I want to start by thanking everyone for the affection shown in these difficult days towards Lorenzo and his family. We are all here with him, passing on your love. Every word, every thought, gives us — and him — strength,” wrote Italian gymnast Lisa Rigamonti today, posting a picture holding the hand of the Azzurro gymnast, who had a pulse oximeter clipped to the finger and an IV or catheter inserted. She also said that what happened is something very complicated that will completely change his life.

The update was that at the moment, his condition is stable (much to the relief of the fans), but we must wait to gain clarity about what lies ahead. She also stressed that in this uncertain future, Lorenzo will need support, now more than ever,  from all of his fans. “Let’s make him feel all our strength and support to face the days ahead. The more we are, the better. He feels all of us. Thank you to those who will continue to be there: your support, in any form, will be essential. #insiemeaBonni,” she concluded. Let’s just pray the gymnast gets healthy as soon as possible, and god gives more strength to his family.

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  Debate

"Can Lorenzo Bonicelli's spirit and community support help him overcome this devastating setback?"

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