Olympic champion Rhys McClenaghan faces a packed summer schedule featuring both the Commonwealth Games and European Championships.

He recognizes the lucky spot after missing all pommel horse action in 2025 while recovering from shoulder surgery at home.

Fully recovered now, McClenaghan plans to unveil an updated routine in Glasgow that he aims to polish before the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Calling this next stage of his career "Rhys 2.0", the Newtownards gymnast welcomes the fresh start while using lessons from earlier events to guide progress.

"The Commonwealth Games offers a solid opportunity to display your developing work. At the Olympic Games the aim is to present your completed version," he said to BBC Sport NI.

"It will remain a work in progress yet hopefully ranks among the world's finest. I stand in an excellent spot with the routine.

"One part of me wants to recapture the drive of a younger Rhys but the truth is I am performing an entirely fresh routine and updated rules have steered me this way, marking the arrival of Rhys 2.0.

"That ability sets top gymnasts apart from legends. Winning titles across several Olympic cycles shows mastery of the discipline. I sense I am achieving that steadily."

Following his forced time away from the sport, which allowed plenty of reflection, McClenaghan feels thankful to compete again while healthy and passionate about gymnastics.

"Many expected me to step back after the Olympics, rest for a year and stay inactive, yet I aimed to return to events quickly, claim a fourth European crown and secure a third straight World title. That formed my 2025 plan but the shoulder issue proved too limiting," he noted.

"The positive side meant I could fully review my career and the Paris Olympics success. Reaching one lifelong target at age 25 requires significant mental adjustment. Though the injury frustrated me it also created space for reflection.

"Only after claiming Olympic gold do you understand the pursuit was never solely about the medal. The layoff reminded me how fortunate I am to continue in gymnastics."

Having completed a career Grand Slam, McClenaghan stays driven to extend his achievements and build further on his record.

"I have collected every major honour in the sport and enjoy exploring my limits. Stopping after the Olympic win would have left my potential untapped. I remain fit and capable of staying the world's best at this event."