In American society, athletes hold a special place in the hearts of their fans. Some dedicate their lives to their sport in hopes of representing their county at the highest level. To many, there is no better way to show the world America’s power and competitive position in society than on an international stage. Compared to their fellow athletes, however, women’s gymnastics represents the United States of America in a dramatically different light. Gymnasts for Team USA are popular household names. These women are bold and daring on the competition floor, often performing routines that are incredibly dangerous if done wrong, but viewers admire gymnasts for their beauty and grace. Ultimately, female gymnasts not only represent their country because of their spectacular talent but because they are a microcosm of American attitudes towards women. Once the spotlight fades, many gymnasts return to their private lives to deal with issues including PTSD due to abuse from trusted adults, body image issues, and eating disorders - issues many American women experience too often. Several famous gymnasts are using their fame to demand change within the sport. These changes include standards of conduct for officials and coaches, treatment of athletes, and the education of young girls in nutritional wellness and personal rights. However, concerns such as abuse, body image issues, and eating disorders will continue to plague future gymnasts despite demands for change within USAG because women’s gymnastics is a microcosm reflecting the overall treatment of women in American society, and until society changes, women’s gymnastics will remain stagnant as well.