Straight off a first-ever NCAA gymnastics title win, LSU gymnast Konnor McClain embarked on her Olympic quest. Competing in Paris this summer would’ve expanded McClain’s portfolio. The Las Vegas native registered for the star-studded 2024 Core Hydration Classic that underwent on May 18. However, at the pre-Olympic meet, she suffered an Achilles tendon injury.

Unfortunately, the 19-year-old had to withdraw from the competition and the medical staff assisted her out into a wheelchair. Recently, Olympic silver medalist, Jordan Chiles’s mother, checked up on the injured gymnast after the heartbreaking exit, giving her the much-needed confidence boosts which is sure to melt your heart!

Konnor McClain receives thoughtful support

With a 14.200, teen gymnastics stunner, Konnor McClain finished third on the balance beam at the Core Hydration Classic 2024. She was only behind Simone Biles (14.550) and Suni Lee (14.600). She then headed to the mat, where she had to be carried off in a wheelchair after suffering from an injury during warmups.

Gina Chiles, Jordan Chiles’ mom, followed up on the LSU standout by posting a sweet note on X, “Thinking about Konnor. Watching it happen as close as we were – seeing her…hearing her… was heartbreaking. Hope she knows our family is cheering for her comeback and can’t wait to see her back out there soon. Heal up! ps- that beam routine was a work of art.”

Injury setback for McClain amidst stellar season and Olympic dreams

Before her return to Baton Rouge on May 19, LSU coach Jay Clark told media that McClain will have an MRI. In 2022, McClain secured her first national title with a score of 112.750. It was the first milestone toward the all-around champion’s dream of making the American Olympic team this year.

Notably, McClain’s coaches at the time were Anna and Valeri Liukin, the parents of Nastia Liukin, the 2008 Olympic all-around winner. In the same meet, Jordan Chiles finished third at 111.900, behind Shilese Jones in second place with a score of 112.000. Now, Konnor’s odds of heading to Paris have almost vanished due to the Achilles ailment.

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But McClain played a significant role in helping LSU win its first NCAA title this season. During the 2024 season, she achieved three perfect 10s, including a beam score of 10.0 at the Southeastern Conference finals in March. In the NCAA final, she had the best individual score of 9.9625 on the beam. McClain’s path this season has witnessed soaring triumphs and recent challenges, highlighting her perseverance and vital role in her campaign to date.