Italian Gymnast Bonicelli Stable After Rings Fall at World University Games

Italian gymnast Lorenzo Bonicelli suffered a severe neck injury during the rings competition at the 2025 FISU Summer World University Games in Germany, resulting in him being placed in a medically induced coma after undergoing emergency surgery. The 23-year-old attempted a high-difficulty triple back dismount but under-rotated and landed directly on his neck, prompting immediate medical intervention and transport to Essen University Hospital. Bonicelli, a promising athlete aiming for Italy's 2025 World Championships and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, has left the Italian team deeply shaken, leading to their withdrawal from the competition due to emotional distress. Officials have indicated that the next ten days will be critical for his recovery, with the gymnastics community worldwide expressing support and hope for his full recuperation. Bonicelli also balances his athletic career with his studies in economics at Mercatorum University. His accident has highlighted the risks of high-level gymnastics and brought widespread attention and solidarity from the international sports community.