As the dust settles on the 2024 U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials held in Minneapolis, the spotlight now shifts toward the future specifically, the build-up to the 2028 Paris Olympic Games. While the trials crowned the team that will compete this summer in Paris, many eyes are already focused on the young talent emerging from these competitions, poised to make their mark in the next Olympic cycle.
The 2024 trials showcased the dominance of established stars like Simone Biles, who topped the all-around with a commanding score of 117.225 over two days, and Sunisa Lee, who secured second place with 111.675. Alongside them, Jordan Chiles and Jade Carey rounded out the top contenders, earning their spots on the Olympic team. However, the trials also highlighted a crop of promising younger gymnasts whose performances suggest they could be key figures in 2028.
Among these rising stars is Hezly Rivera, who finished fifth in the all-around with a strong 111.150 total. Rivera’s consistency across vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise demonstrates a well-rounded skill set. Coaches and analysts have praised her composure under pressure and her ability to deliver solid routines on all apparatuses. Given her youth and trajectory, Rivera is widely regarded as a potential cornerstone for the Paris 2028 team.
Another gymnast turning heads is Joscelyn Roberson, who placed sixth with 110.975. Roberson’s powerful vaults and dynamic floor routines have drawn comparisons to some of the sport’s greats. Her performances at the trials, particularly on vault where she scored 14.325 on average, signal her readiness to take on more prominent roles in future international competitions.
Leanne Wong, a University of Florida standout who finished seventh, has also been earmarked as a future Olympic hopeful. Wong’s elegant execution and strong uneven bars routines (averaging 13.925) provide the team with technical depth. Her collegiate experience will likely continue to sharpen her competitive edge as the 2028 cycle approaches.
The trials also revealed emerging talents like Tiana Sumanasekera and Kaliya Lincoln, who placed eighth and ninth respectively. Both gymnasts have shown flashes of brilliance, with Sumanasekera’s floor work and Lincoln’s vaulting ability making them exciting prospects. Their continued development over the next three years will be critical as USA Gymnastics looks to maintain its dominance on the world stage.
USA Gymnastics officials have emphasized the importance of nurturing this next generation. Head coach Valeri Liukin remarked, “The future of U.S. gymnastics is bright. These young athletes have the talent and mindset to carry the torch in Paris and beyond. Our job is to provide them with the resources and experience they need to succeed.”
The 2025 Pan American Gymnastics Championships in Panama City offered a preview of this future, with the U.S. team winning gold and several young gymnasts gaining valuable international experience. Such competitions serve as vital stepping stones, allowing emerging athletes to acclimate to the pressures of elite competition.
While the 2024 Olympic team will soon take center stage in Paris, the seeds for sustained U.S. success have been planted. Gymnasts like Hezly Rivera, Joscelyn Roberson, and Leanne Wong represent the next wave of talent, blending youth with skill and determination. With continued development and support, these athletes are well-positioned to headline the U.S. team in 2028, ensuring that American gymnastics remains a global powerhouse for years to come.
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