25/06/2026
Proud to be Sri Lankan
Sri Lankan-American gymnast Tiana Sumanasekera has announced that she will represent Sri Lanka in future international competitions, calling the decision a proud and emotional moment in her career.
The talented gymnast, whose parents are originally from Sri Lanka, recently changed her sporting nationality from the United States to Sri Lanka through World Gymnastics.
Sharing the news on social media, Sumanasekera said gymnastics has always been her passion and that she has been grateful for the opportunity to represent the United States over the past five years.
She said representing Sri Lanka is a dream come true and gives her a chance to honor her Sri Lankan heritage on the international stage.
"Competing at the Olympics would be an absolute dream come true, and representing a country that is so close to my heart makes it even more special," she said.
Sumanasekera also highlighted the lack of representation for gymnastics in Sri Lanka and South Asia, saying she hopes to inspire more young athletes in the region to take up the sport.
The 2024 U.S. Olympic team alternate last represented the United States in 2025, helping the team win gold at the Pan American Championships. She also enjoyed a successful first season with UCLA, earning impressive scores in collegiate gymnastics competitions.
Her move adds to the growing presence of Sri Lankan gymnasts on the world stage. In 2021, Milka Gehani became the first Sri Lankan gymnast to compete at the Olympic Games, while Amaya Sithumini Klukottage made history by competing at the FISU World University Games in 2023.
"As a Sri Lankan-American, my heart will always be proud to belong to both countries," Sumanasekera said.
Her decision is expected to be a major boost for gymnastics in Sri Lanka as the country looks to expand its presence in international competition.
Elephas
