Hezly Rivera Shines as Leader at U.S. Gymnastics Championships

In Phoenix, Hezly Rivera emerged as a leading figure in U.S. women’s gymnastics. Two summers ago, during the Paris Olympics, she was the lesser-known member of the U.S. team. Now, as preparations for the 2028 Olympics continue, Rivera is stepping into a leadership role.

During the final round of the U.S. gymnastics championships, Rivera demonstrated her growing prominence. Despite recovering from a hamstring injury incurred at the Pan Am Games in June, she secured her second consecutive national title. Her two-day total was 111.950, more than a point ahead of runner-up Claire Pease. Rivera is the first American woman aside from Simone Biles to win back-to-back titles since Jordyn Wieber in 2011 and 2012.

Rivera’s confidence has grown since 2024, when she was overshadowed by more experienced teammates. Now, she embraces leadership, saying, “I am comfortable with it,” and enjoys being a guiding force. Anna Liukin, who coaches Rivera with her husband Valeri, described her as “motherly,” a term Rivera finds humorous yet fitting.

As a gold medalist herself, Rivera feels a duty to support younger gymnasts. She values giving pep talks and spreading positivity. This mindset helped her during Thursday’s competition when a fall on the uneven bars affected her standing. Rivera recovered, moving from fourth to a strong comeback performance on Sunday.

Her performances, including a stylish balance beam routine, showed resilience and determination. “I don’t really have to think about it too much,” Rivera said of her mental strategy. During the championships, Rivera’s black-and-white leotard sparkled as she focused on staying composed, regardless of delays.

Looking ahead, Rivera is determined to join her first world championship team. Last year’s hopes were dashed by an ankle injury, described by Liukin as “heartbreaking.” Being healthy is now a priority. Her recent podium finish underscores her mental strength: “Because physically everything’s there. But the mental aspect of things is definitely where it’s at.” Rivera aims to seize this chance to compete internationally again.

Claire Pease and Skye Blakely posed notable competition during the event. Pease, initially leading, had some setbacks but improved on her previous 10th place finish. Blakely’s performance wasn’t as consistent, resulting in a seventh-place finish. Charleigh Bullock achieved third place, while Reese Esponda placed fourth. Jade Carey, focusing on increasing her routine’s difficulty for a future Olympic attempt, captured the vault title and finished fifth. Her improvement was clear, competing at home in Phoenix.

Carey praised Rivera, commenting on her ability to overcome challenges: “Back-to-back national champion is something that she should be really proud of.” Rivera’s journey from Paris to present day highlights her transformation into a respected leader in gymnastics.