Evita Griskenas: The Sole U.S. Rhythmic Gymnastics Athlete at Paris 2024

Evita Griskenas, a 22-year-old rhythmic gymnast from Orland Park, Illinois, is set to represent the United States as the only rhythmic gymnastics athlete at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Known for her beautiful smile and fun-loving nature, Evita's journey to this prestigious stage is a testament to her dedication, talent, and resilience.

Griskenas first competed in the Olympics during the Tokyo 2020 Games, where she finished 12th in the rhythmic all-around competition. Her qualification for Paris 2024 came through a stellar performance at the 2023 Pan American Games, where she secured a silver medal in the all-around. This achievement earned her the sole U.S. spot in rhythmic gymnastics for the upcoming Olympics.

The path to Paris 2024 was not without its challenges. In 2023, Griskenas suffered a foot injury that left her unable to walk for a period. Despite this setback, she demonstrated remarkable perseverance and determination, undergoing rigorous rehab to make a successful comeback.

Evita's love for gymnastics began at the tender age of four when she saw it on TV and asked her mom to take her to a rhythmic gymnastics class. Her mom initially took her to an artistic gymnastics class, but after one session, Evita crossed her arms and declared, "This is the wrong gymnastics".

Balancing her athletic pursuits with her studies at Columbia University, Evita is not only a dedicated and hardworking athlete but also a fun individual who enjoys playing the drums. Her strong belief in herself and her faith in the Lord provide her with strength and motivation. Her personal motto, "Passion guides your resilience where it is a lot of difficulty," encapsulates her approach to overcoming challenges.

For the girls who look up to Evita, she is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication and hard work. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and hard work that underpin success in the world of sports. Good luck, Evita!