Speaking about Olympic surprises, everyone was looking forward to see American gymnast, Shawn Johnson, back on the floor at London's Olympics Games this summer.
Unfortunately, the 20-year-old gold medalist who in 2008 returned an American star after winning gold at Beijing's Olympic Games that year has announced her retirement.
"I still have the heart, drive, and desire to compete and help the USA at the London Olympics," read a statement on Sunday. "Unfortunately, it has become obvious that my left knee is not able to sustain the demands of gymnastics any longer. All I can do now is gracefully retire and thank everyone who has believed in me and my journey."
Here after, Johnson plans to continue her involvement in gymnastics but under a different role.
She also plans to go to college and work with various philanthropic foundations hoping to inspire people to follow their dreams and passions.
The following pictures illustrate some instances in the short-cut but well-achieved career. For a more complete story, click here.
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