Utah sixth-year senior Jaedyn Rucker announced the end of her gymnastics career after she suffered an Achilles tear before the start of the 2025 season.
“To all of my incredible friends, family and supporters, I recently tore my Achilles, which means my days of competing as a gymnast have come to an end,” Rucker wrote in a social media post. “While this is a heartbreaking reality to face, I’m so grateful for everything this sport has given me — the teammates, lessons and memories that will last a lifetime."
Rucker will end her career as the 2022 NCAA Vault Champion, the 2023 NCAA Regional Vault Champion and a two-time All-American in the event.
In 2024, she started every competition on vault and posted a season-high 9.925 on floor vs. Utah State and Stanford. Now, while her career as a Red Rock might be over, she will pivot in a new support role for the rest of the season.
“Though I’m stepping away from competing, I’m excited to take on a new role with the team and continue contributing in a meaningful way,” she said. Thank you for all your love and support, as I move into this next chapter with hope and gratitude.”
