An injury is forcing one of LSU’s top incoming gymnastics recruits to give up her dreams of battling for a spot on this year’s U.S. Olympic team.
Zoe Miller, who won two gold medals at the 2023 Pan American Games, announced Sunday on her Instagram account that she is retiring from elite gymnastics to focus on her recovery and upcoming LSU career.
“In February, just before Winter Cup, I injured my shoulder,” Miller posted. “Despite therapy and rest, it hasn’t healed as quickly as I’d hoped. As I am 100% prioritizing my full recovery to be ready for college, this now means my elite career ends here.
“It’s hard to accept, but focusing on college preparations has been exciting and motivating. The countless memories I’ve made during my time as an elite athlete will forever hold a special place in my heart. From the invaluable lessons in discipline to the closet bonds of friendship, and the unforgettable moments that have shaped me, I am eternally grateful. Though this year so far is not what I envisioned, I’m determined to embrace the start of a new journey.”
A native of Spring, Texas, Miller is one of four gymnasts who comprised LSU's top-rated signing class this past November who will be eligible in January when the reigning NCAA champions open the 2025 season. The rest include Kailin Chio of Las Vegas; Kaliya Lincoln of Frisco, Texas; and Lexi Zeiss of Omaha, Nebraska.
Lincoln also won double gold at last year’s Pan Am games. In addition to the team gold medal they won with the U.S. squad, Lincoln won gold on floor while Miller won on uneven bars.
Lincoln is still expected make a run at the U.S. Olympic team along with LSU freshman Konnor McClain, the 2022 U.S. nationals all-around champion.
The trials are set for June 27-30 in Minneapolis. The Olympics begin July 26 in Paris.