Laura Zeng Has Returned: Ready and Confident

Laura Zeng from the United States has returned confidently on the carpet after a suspension due to the use of a prohibited substance. In the 2019 season, she showed she kept in good form and worked to meet the next challenge with difficulty and originality.

While prohibited substance use happens rarely in rhythmic gymnastics, the federations and communities may consider why it should happen at all and whether the substances used really have a significant effect on performance at all, in a sport where success does not depend on strength or speed.

When Kabaeva, Tchachina and then Peycheva received suspensions in the early 2000s, they returned with confidence as well but it was a pity they lost time away from competition.

Coaches and team doctors alike should look out for substances that may turn out to be an issue but that people commonly take for very banal problems, such as a cold.

In Laura's case, she was ready to become a permanent contender for finals and secure a spot in the world's top 8, which she fully deserves. She has shown that she is back with both glamour and ambition  and I hope she can resume this great position in the world elite.