From Team USA to Team Bangladesh: Jake Islam’s Bold Gymnastics Move

American-born gymnast Jake Islam is officially set to represent Bangladesh in international gymnastics — a powerful shift that not only marks a personal turning point for Islam, but also presents a significant opportunity for the country’s evolving athletics landscape.

With a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from USA Gymnastics, the 22-year-old has cleared the final hurdle to make the switch. The Bangladesh Gymnastics Federation has already submitted all formal documents to the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) to finalize the transition.

“We are proud to welcome Jake Islam into the national gymnastics framework. His expertise and international exposure will be a valuable asset to our team,”
— Sheikh Bashir Ahmed Mamun, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Gymnastics Federation.

A Dual Identity Turns into National Representation

Jake Ashequl Islam has long embraced his Bangladeshi roots while training under the U.S. collegiate system. A student-athlete at the University of Michigan, a Sport Management major at the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology, he has balanced academic dedication with high-level gymnastics.

As a freshman at the University of Michigan, Islam made his collegiate debut in 2024, competing in floor, vault, and pommel horse, where he scored a career-high 14.25 on vault. Before Michigan, he was a five-time Massachusetts State Champion, four-time USAG Academic All-American, and a two-time Region 6 Elite Team Cup Member — solidifying his reputation as one of the top junior gymnasts in the U.S.

Now, he’s bringing that world-class experience to a country still carving its place in global gymnastics. Islam’s story highlights the growing role of diaspora athletes in transforming national sports — with gymnastics possibly being Bangladesh’s next breakthrough.

As reported in the Dhaka Tribune, officials and fans alike are already celebrating his decision.

A New Chapter for Bangladesh Gymnastics

Jake Islam’s transition is more than a paperwork shuffle — it’s a strategic investment in the future of gymnastics in Bangladesh. With his experience in international-level training, Islam is expected to elevate local talent through knowledge-sharing, boost the country’s performance at major events like the Asian Games and World Championships, and serve as a visible icon of athletic ambition for Bangladeshi youth. In a nation where gymnastics remains largely underrepresented, his arrival could be the very spark that fuels a long-term transformation in the sport’s popularity and development.

What’s Next for Jake Islam?

Jake is expected to join training camps in Bangladesh later this year and possibly represent the country in major upcoming competitions. His addition may also open up partnerships, sponsorships, and grassroots initiatives to raise gymnastics awareness nationwide.

Follow Jake’s journey on Instagram and cheer him on as he brings elite gymnastics to the Bangladeshi stage.