Sam Mikulak has crossed off plenty of items from his bucket list. He has won two NCAA championships at Michigan, participated in the 2012 Olympics and earned the top spot at the U.S. men’s gymnastic championships. But one box remains unchecked: world’s best gymnast.

Next week, a healthy Mikulak will get another crack at achieving his top goal when he represents the U.S. at the World Artistic Gymnastic Championships in Antwerp, Belgium. Competitions begin Monday and run through Oct. 6.

“It’s amazing,” said Mikulak, a senior from Corona del Mar, Calif. “I’m just curious to see how I’ll handle it, but I’m excited for new experiences and traveling the world.”

As a freshman, Mikulak competed for Michigan despite suffering two broken ankles and later battled torn soleus muscle in his calf. Even as he was vying to become the first Wolverine gymnast to represent Team USA in the Olympics, Mikulak had to fight through a nagging ankle injury before he could book his trip to London. Now, Mikulak feels healthier than ever — his legs are so strong that he inadvertently broke a vault board while practicing a routine.

“I’m feeling good,” he said. “I’m just keeping things consistent and doing as many routines as I can.”

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