Since 2012, Komova has been missing from major international competitions due to injuries and illnesses. At the 2012 Olympic Games, American Gabby Douglas edged out Komova in the all-around finals and Komova finished with the silver medal. In 2013, Komova suffered an ongoing back injury and after finally returning to the gym, she was hospitalized shortly after for viral meningitis. 

 

Komova successfully returned to competition at the 2014 Russian Championships in April. She had gone through a noticeable growth spurt and had to adjust her gymnastics accordingly, but still displayed her infamous elegance. Komova initially made the European Championships team, but had to withdraw due to an ankle injury. In June, Russian head coach Andrei Rodionenko had high hopes for Komova, saying that he believed her experience and level would give her a good shot at the 2014 World Championships team. However, Komova had not returned to full health by September and did not make the Worlds team.

 

Before this weekend's competiton, Komova was most recently seen at Mexico’s Gala of Gymnastics Stars in October. This Gala is not an actual competition but a show where gymnasts can put on a performance while executing some of their best skills. Watch Komova's floor performance from the Gala here.