Olympian Levi Jung-Ruivivar to step back from competition for eating disorder treatment

American-born gymnast Levi Jung-Ruivivar, who made headlines last year for representing the Philippines at the Paris Olympics, has recently announced her decision to take a step back from competition in order to focus on her health. In a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram, the 18-year-old athlete revealed that she will be seeking treatment for an eating disorder that has been impacting both her athletic career and her academic pursuits at Stanford University.

Jung-Ruivivar expressed her gratitude for the support she has received from loved ones and coaches throughout this challenging time. She acknowledged the difficult decision to speak out about her private battle but emphasized the importance of seeking help in order to prioritize her well-being. The gymnast shared that she plans to redshirt this season and take a brief leave of absence from Stanford to fully dedicate herself to healing from the eating disorder.

“As an elite athlete, I felt it was vital to stop the damage it was doing to my body and mind by seeking help,” Jung-Ruivivar wrote in her statement. She also reflected on the impact of the disorder on her ability to fully enjoy her time as a student and a gymnast, noting that it was draining her mental and physical energy.

Despite the challenges she is currently facing, Jung-Ruivivar remains optimistic about her journey towards recovery. She expressed her eagerness to return to school and training before the spring quarter begins, emphasizing her commitment to overcoming the eating disorder and rediscovering her passion for gymnastics.

Fellow gymnasts and supporters have flooded Jung-Ruivivar’s social media posts with messages of love and encouragement. Hezly Rivera wrote “i love you Levi” in response to the announcement, while Skye Blakely shared a pair of heart emojis in solidarity. Stanford University also showed their support for the gymnast, promising to stand by her every step of the way.

As Jung-Ruivivar embarks on this new chapter of her journey, the sports community continues to rally around her, offering unwavering support and encouragement. Her bravery in speaking out about her struggles serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing mental and physical health in pursuit of athletic excellence.

Chantz Martin is a sports writer for Fox News Digital. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on Twitter, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.