Rhys McClenaghan Returns to Competition After Shoulder Surgery, Eyes Glasgow Commonwealths
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Ireland’s Olympic pommel horse champion, Rhys McClenaghan, is poised to make his highly anticipated return to competitive gymnastics in March, marking his first appearance since the Paris Games. The 26-year-old will participate in World Cup events in Baku, Azerbaijan, and Antalya, Turkey, following a recovery period from shoulder surgery undergone in July.
The two-time world champion was sidelined from October’s World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta due to the injury. His comeback was confirmed with his inclusion in Ireland’s squad for the opening World Cup competitions. Speaking in December 2025, McClenaghan expressed his ambition to compete in the Azerbaijan World Cup, scheduled for March 5-8.
Road to Recovery and Return to Form
McClenaghan’s rehabilitation has been a focused effort, aiming to regain the peak performance that has established him as a dominant force in the sport. The surgery, performed in July, necessitated a period of rest and intensive physiotherapy. His selection for both the Baku (March 5-8) and Antalya (March 12-15) World Cup events signals a strong indication of his readiness to resume competition at the highest level.
The Ireland team accompanying McClenaghan will also include Eamon Montgomery, Oisin O’Connell, Daniel Fox, Chester Enriquez, and James Hickey, providing a strong support system for the returning champion.
A Landmark Year for the Irish Gymnast
This year promises to be particularly significant for McClenaghan, as he aims to add to his already impressive collection of accolades. He has already achieved gymnastics’ coveted grand slam – securing gold medals at the Olympic Games, World Championships, European Championships, and Commonwealth Games.
Looking ahead, McClenaghan will represent Northern Ireland at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games later in the year. This event presents another opportunity to showcase his skills and further solidify his legacy within the sport. His return to the World Cup circuit is a crucial step in preparing for this summer’s competition.
