On Wednesday, ESPN dropped its full “Body Issue” which included many athletes like Milwaukee Brewers star Christian Yelich, United States women’s soccer player Kelly O’Hara and Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett.
One of the more surprising names on that list was Katelyn Ohashi.
The former UCLA gymnast went super viral earlier this year after her incredible Michael Jackson routine made the rounds on social media.
Just in case you don’t remember:
In the “Body Issue,” Ohashi revealed that she actually lost her love for the sport due to the numerous injuries and mental health issues stemming from verbal abuse.
She would find that love once again by competing at UCLA.
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“When my routine went viral in January, what stood out to people was that it was so joyful,” she said.
“People are so used to watching Olympic gymnastics, when you see more of the robotic, stiff gymnastics that is taken very, very seriously. But Miss Val comes from a dance background, and she teaches us how to perform and fully express ourselves. I think the routine went viral because it was so relatable and people could feel joy watching it.”
“Take a look behind the scenes of Katelyn Ohashi’s ESPN Body Issue shoot, and listen as she discusses the physical and mental challenges she has faced in gymnastics and the floor routine that made her a viral sensation.”
