Shilese Jones car accident: When did it happen, everything you need to know about mishap that saw the gymnast miss out on Tokyo Olympics

Shilese Jones recently proved her gymnastics prowess at the 2023 World Athletics Championships, winning two bronze medals in the all-around and uneven bars and a gold medal in the team event. However, before enjoying her recent success, Jones had to face a spine-chilling car accident and the unexpected demise of her dear father, Sylvester Jones.

Jones suffered a car accident in January 2021 that kept her from making the Olympic team. Her car collided with another car that was going around a traffic circle. Although Jones survived the mishap, the accident fractured her back and foot, requiring her to be on a three to four months recovery. The 21-year-old’s resilience made her bounce back after facing a series of struggles in 2021.

Day Seven - 2023 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships

In her recovery phase, Jones showed incredible determination to prepare and appear at the championship. Finally, when she competed in the Nationals, she finished 12th. Jones continued to push her abilities and also participated at the Olympic Trials in July where she stood 10th.

Sadly, Shilese Jones could not make the Olympic team in 2021. In December, the young gymnast had to bear the loss of her father’s demise after his long battle with kidney disease.

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Shilese Jones returned stronger in 2022

Jones at 2023 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships

In 2022, Shilese Jones began her successful journey by competing at the nationals in August. The Washintong-born won two gold medals in uneven bars and floor and also a bronze medal in the uneven bars. Due to competitor Konnor McClain’s injury at the championship, Jones got the opportunity to enter the World Championships team.

Finally, in the Liverpool World Championship, she won a gold medal in the team event and two silver medals in all-around and uneven bars.

At the 2023 Nationals, she improved her 2022 scores by achieving a silver medal in the all-around event and a gold medal in the floor exercise. She even surpassed legendary gymnast bronze medallist Simone Biles in the uneven bars by winning another gold medal.

After completing the 2023 world championships, she shared her experience with Fig Gymnastics, stating:

“This was overall great…it was a little crazy but I am just happy to go 4-for-4 and be on the podium again.”

Ultimately, Jones qualified for the World Championship team and where her performance has now brought closer to her Olympics dream for 2024.