Artificial intelligence judging set for LA28 Olympics despite gymnast criticism

Gymnastics is leading the integration of artificial intelligence into elite sport judging, with sport bosses stating it is very likely to be implemented at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. However, the technology has faced criticism from leading competitors following its use at the recent World Championships. Athletes including Olympic champion Carlos Yulo and British gymnast Harry Hepworth had the difficulty ratings of their vaults downgraded during qualifying by the AI-powered Judging Support System. The gymnasts argued that bending their legs to prepare for a safe landing caused the technology to misinterpret their movements as a tuck position rather than a pike, negatively impacting their final scores and posing safety risks. Despite the backlash, officials defended the technology, stating it guarantees fairness and helps judges make correct marginal decisions on body angles. Conversations between officials and coaches remain ongoing regarding measurement parameters.