Suni Lee bids farewell to Auburn gymnastics, addresses 'non-gymnastics health issue'

Richard Silva, Montgomery Advertiser
·2 min read
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AUBURN — Suni Lee said before the 2023 season that it would be her final year competing for Auburn gymnastics. She made that official Monday with a statement posted to Twitter.

The Tigers' season ended in the semifinals of the 2023 NCAA Los Angeles Regional on Thursday.

"I am so proud of my team and the way they showed determination and resilience this season," Lee wrote. "Auburn, thank you for the best 2 years of my life and for giving me the opportunity to make history alongside this amazing group. I am forever grateful to this community."

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Lee, who hasn't appeared in a meet for the Tigers since they topped Georgia in Neville Arena on Feb. 24, has been dealing with "a non-gymnastics health issue that has impaired her ability to train," according to statements released by both her and coach Jeff Graba on March 9.

In her tweet Monday, Lee added some more details.

"I have been dealing with a non-gymnastics health related issue involving my kidneys," Lee said. " For my safety, the medical team did not clear me to train and compete over the last few weeks. I am blessed and thankful to be working with the best specialized medial team to treat and manage my diagnosis. My focus at this time is my health and recovery."

Lee, a gold medalist in the 2020 Olympics, is returning to elite gymnastics and pushing for a spot in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

"It's been challenging to end my Auburn career early, but I am thankful for all the love and support. ... In fact, this experience has sharpened my vision for the future," she said. "I appreciate all the love and support, and I want to especially thank my doctors, coaches, and the Auburn medical staff for their care during this time."

Lee leaves Auburn as one of the most impactful gymnasts in the program's history. She helped lead the Tigers to the Final Four as a freshman in 2022 and was the national champion on beam that same season.

“War eagle forever,” Lee said to end her statement.

Richard Silva is the Auburn athletics beat writer for the Montgomery Advertiser. He can be reached via email at rsilva@gannett.com or on Twitter @rich_silva18.

This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Suni Lee: Auburn gymnastics star releases statement regarding health