When Skye Blakely had injured her Achilles back at the US Olympic trials, many thought this was it. But unlike anything that could be predicted, the gymnast is not only back but is already dazzling crowds as Florida Gator. And while it is undeniable that she had the dreams of Paris 2024 broken, the 20-year-old gymnast is ready to make up for it. How do you ask? Well, by making LA28 her next target. But with such a big target, she needs all the help in the world. That’s when Nike jumped in to Swoosh away all of her worries. But how? Well, an exciting new partnership that might change gymnastics going forward.

Now Skye isn’t no newbie when it comes to the global stage. She had already secured two golds at the World Championships at Antwerp 2023 and Liverpool 2022. That’s why when Nike decided to make their entrance into the world of gymnastics, she was the perfect one. After all, Nike plans to support and inspire future athletes at a significant level.

The brand that currently holds a value of $108 billion recently released its first-ever leotard collection! The organization exists to help young girls develop self-confidence as they begin their gymnastics journey. Each gymnastics girl needs essential tools for building confidence at the beginning of their gymnastics experience. And here it is!

As a Nike athlete since 2023 and a USA Gymnastics National Team member, Skye Blakely expresses complete excitement about joining this special team. She expressed her excitement via Instagram as she posed in the new Nike leotard during her gym workout. “I feel that Nike is always thinking of ways to support girls and inspire the next generation in sports,” Skye said. “Now I get to proudly represent Nike on my chest as a USAG National Team member. And I hope that encourages young girls to chase their dreams.”

The leotard was elegant, featuring a halter neck design that, of course, gives gymnasts the freedom to move without sacrificing flair. What’s even more exciting? This collection is the result of a five-year partnership between Nike and USA Gymnastics, which began in 2023. Together, they’re opening up new opportunities for kids to experience the joy of movement, from their first forward roll to their first back handspring and beyond.

“I’m so excited to be part of this Nike launch into gymnastics!” Skye said. “This collection is such a big moment, inspiring and supporting women and girls in sport. Wearing this leotard makes me feel confident, strong, and inspired. I can’t wait to see what’s next for gymnastics with Nike!”  But Skye is hardly the only one who is happy with this decision. After all, Nike is as American as it gets.

Jordan Chiles and others are excited about the future of gymnastics with Nike

With nearly half of US gymnasts between the ages of six and twelve, Nike’s first gymnastics leotard collection is aimed at inspiring the next generation to perform their best. But when did USA Gymnastics strike a deal with Nike? In 2023, USA Gymnastics made a major move, teaming up with Nike for a five-year partnership.

This deal made Nike the official apparel and footwear provider for the U.S. gymnastics team. Since then, they have gone on to cover both Paris 2024 and Los Angeles 2028. Under the leadership of Li Li Leung, USA Gymnastics sees this as a pivotal moment for growth.

Leung called the agreement the “largest” in the organization’s history. She emphasized how Nike’s support would be key in helping them reach new heights. “This partnership allows us to deepen our holistic support for athletes and the gymnastics community,” said Leung. With a focus on fostering a culture of belonging and inspiring the next generation, Nike’s involvement is more than just providing gear.

Gymnasts like Jordan Chiles, who made history in the Tokyo 2020 and Paris Olympics, were excited: “I began gymnastics when I was six years old, and I’ve been a fan of Nike for almost as long. I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.” It’s clear that this partnership is all about pushing the sport and athletes forward.