US-Born Gymnast Jake Islam Set to Represent Bangladesh in Global Competitions
Jake Islam, a rising star in American gymnastics and a five-time Massachusetts state champion, is preparing to compete on the international stage — this time under the flag of Bangladesh.
Born on September 23, 2005, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Jake currently attends the University of Michigan, where he competes as a key member of the university’s gymnastics team. Renowned for his prowess in the floor exercise, vault, and pommel horse, Jake has built a strong reputation in the U.S. gymnastics circuit. Between 2018 and 2023, he clinched five state titles and was a participant in the 2022 USA Gymnastics Championships.
Officials from the Bangladesh Gymnastics Federation confirmed on Wednesday that efforts are underway to issue Jake a Bangladeshi passport — a step that will allow him to officially represent the country in international competitions.
Jake’s father, Ashequl Islam, is of Bangladeshi heritage, while his mother, Melissa, is American. His dual background places him in the footsteps of another trailblazer — Syque Caesar — who represented Bangladesh in gymnastics at the 2012 London Olympics.
“Jake has the potential to be part of Bangladesh’s Olympic squad for the 2028 Games in the USA,” said Habibur Rahman, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Gymnastics Federation.
Jake’s addition to the national roster could be a major boost for Bangladesh’s presence in global gymnastics. With his training and experience in a top-tier U.S. collegiate program, his participation is expected to inspire a new wave of talent and attention toward the sport in the country.