CHAMPLIN, Minn. - Little Canada native Maggie Nichols says she's retiring from elite gymnastics competition.
In an Instagram post on Wednesday afternoon, Nichols, who just last weekend competed in the Team USA Olympic Trials, said this was the hardest decision she's had to make, but is what is right for her.
"I have been so blessed to be able to represent the United States in multiple international competitions and the World championships and becoming a world champion. I’ve gone through so many injuries and hard times, and I’ve been through so many good times and I’ve learned so many incredible life lessons I wouldn’t have been able to learn without my elite career," Nichols wrote.
" I can't thank my coaches and my parents enough for everything they have done for me, and sacrificed for me. Also thank you to all of you for all the love and support throughout my elite career, I wouldn't be where I am today without you all," she added.
Nichols finished sixth in the all-around on Sunday and did not make the Rio Olympic team.
Nichols, a Roseville High alum, plans to continue her education at the University of Oklahoma.
A photo posted by Maggie Nichols (@callmeswags) on
