Nottingham-born gymnast Ellie Downie has retired from the sport at the age of 23 to prioritise her “mental health and happiness”. Downie won 12 major medals in her career, including European Championship all-around gold in 2017 and two World Championship bronzes.
The athlete said the decision came with “a heavy heart”. In 2020 Downie and sister Becky went public with allegations of an “environment of fear and mental abuse” at elite levels in their sport, calling for change.
Ellie later withdrew from contention for the Tokyo Olympics following the death of her brother Josh, while Becky was overlooked. Downie made her retirement public on Twitter, posting: “With a heavy heart and an array of emotions today is the day I announce my retirement from gymnastics!
