Tiana Sumanasekera, born on 15 September 2007, is an American artistic gymnast and a distinguished member of the United States women's national artistic gymnastics team. She made a significant mark in the world of gymnastics by becoming the 2023 Pan American all-around and balance beam champion.

Artistic gymnastics is a discipline of gymnastics where gymnasts perform short routines (ranging from approximately 30 to 90 seconds) on different apparatus, with less time for vaulting. The sport is governed by the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG), which assigns the Code of Points used to score performances and regulates all aspects of elite international competition. Within individual countries, gymnastics is regulated by national federations such as British Gymnastics and USA Gymnastics. Artistic gymnastics is a popular spectator sport at many competitions, including the Summer Olympic Games.

Born to Rajitha and Ruwangi Sumanasekera, Tiana began her gymnastics journey in 2013. Her dedication and talent quickly became evident, setting her apart in the competitive gymnastics arena. 

Of Sri Lankan descent, Tiana is believed to be the first gymnast with such heritage to represent the United States in international competition. This milestone adds a unique and inspiring dimension to her already impressive athletic achievements.

The Daily Morning caught up with Tiana the rising star for a quick chat on her world of accomplishing many great milestones. 

Following are the excerpts from the interview:

First of all, congratulations on your achievement! As a Sri Lankan, I'm really proud to see you in the US Nationals.

How do you feel about representing your country in big grand-scale competitions?

I feel very proud to represent the USA because it is an incredible honour and privilege.

Is being a gymnastic athlete easy?

Being a gymnast is not easy. Gymnastics is an extremely difficult sport both mentally and physically. It takes a lot of dedication and hard work.

How did you get into gymnastics?

I stumbled upon gymnastics by accident – when I was 6 years old, I went to a birthday party where they invited a recreational gymnastics group. I was so engaged with the gymnastics activities they had and started flipping high on the trampoline. One of the instructors noticed me and told my mom that I had to join a gymnastic club. At this time, I knew artistic gymnastics was meant for me because I had always loved the thrill of flipping.

Why did you choose this sport?

I had instantly fallen in love with the sport and have never gone back since. It brings me such joy because I am so incredibly passionate about gymnastics. I love the feeling of flipping, leaping, competing, travelling, and so many more reasons.

Do you remember the very first medal you received in your life?

Yes, it was in Level 3; placed 6th. I was happy to get a medal, but was a tad bit upset because I knew I could beat the girls who had placed before me. I was determined to beat them, so I worked hard and placed 1st the rest of the season. 

What is the feedback from your parents on your venture?

My parents are the most supportive parents I could ask for. They have and always will be my number-1 supporters. They are always so encouraging and loving. They know I will do my best no matter what and they will never be disappointed in me. They know how hard this sport is, so they are there every step of the way to support me.

Are you a professional athlete now, or do you have another career path as well?

I am not a Professional Athlete, after college I would like to start my own business.

How do you handle the pressure of competing at the world level?

I absolutely love competing internationally because I love to show my gymnastic skills and hard work. Competing is my favourite thing to do in gymnastics. I try not to put pressure on myself, instead, I like to trust my training and do my normal. 

What are the highlights you've noticed in US gymnastics?

Some of the big highlights of USA gymnastics are the coaches, facilities and equipment.

Competing alongside world champion gymnasts like Simone Biles and Suni Lee, what have you shared with them, and what experiences have you gained?

It is incredible to compete alongside such talented and experienced gymnasts. They are all veterans and what they have achieved inspires me to achieve my own goals as well.

Who is your role model?

Some of my role models in gymnastics are Simone Biles, Shawn Johnson and Laurie Hernandez. 

Sports come with both wins and losses. How do you manage your failures?

I manage my failures by learning from them. Learning from my mistakes helps to improve and become a better gymnast. Although there are many failures in gymnastics, there are also a lot of successes.

Who is your coach/coaches in this sporting journey?

My coaches are Cecile and Laurent Landi. They are truly the most supportive and intelligent coaches. They have helped me tremendously in the few years I have been with them. I am so thankful to be coached by them. 

This is the highest level a Sri Lankan origin athlete has reached. How do you feel about the support from Sri Lankan fans?

I am incredibly grateful for all of the support I have received from Sri Lankan fans. It really means the world that they are always supporting me.

What are your plans after this season?

After this competition season, I am going to go on vacation to rest both physically and mentally. It’s been a long and hard season.

Is there anyone you would like to thank?

I would like to thank my family, coaches, and friends for their continuous support throughout my gymnastics career. I would not be able to be where I am today if it wasn’t for them.