Clemson gymnastics’ newest international addition is already making waves—and medals.
Incoming Clemson gymnast Emma Malewski earned a bronze medal on balance beam for Team Germany at the FISU World University Games, held in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany. Competing on home soil, Malewski posted a 13.166 to finish third in the event final, adding another accolade to her already impressive résumé.
World-Class Talent Coming to Tiger Town
Just a few weeks ago, Clemson announced the addition of Malewski, a member of the German National Team, to the 2025-26 roster. Co-head coaches Justin Howell and Liz Crandall-Howell called her “world class,” and it didn’t take long for her to back that up. Competing against elite international athletes in one of the world’s premier university sporting events, she showed exactly why Clemson is so excited to have her in the program.
Her poise, artistry, and consistency stood out as she climbed onto the podium in the beam final—an event she already knows well, having won European bronze on beam in 2022.
A Resilient Return for Emma Malewski
This bronze medal wasn’t just about winning hardware—it was about coming back. Malewski has been battling through injury setbacks, including two surgeries in her career already. The Rhine-Ruhr Games marked her return to the international spotlight, and she made the most of the moment with a performance that showcased both grace and grit.
What It Means for Clemson
For a program still in its infancy, Clemson landing a gymnast with Malewski’s international pedigree is a huge step forward. She brings a level of experience few college athletes have—having already competed (and medaled) on major global stages.
Her bronze medal is a win not only for Germany, but also a sign of what’s to come for the Tigers. With her proven track record on beam and her elegant, powerful style, she’ll bring a new layer of depth and scoring potential to a Clemson team building something special in the collegiate gymnastics landscape.
Bronze in Germany. Orange in Clemson. Emma Malewski is just getting started.
