Gymnast Hezly Rivera Announces Big News After Paris Olympics

Newcomer Hezly Rivera earned her spot on the women's national team alongside veteran gymnasts Simone Biles, Jade Carey, Suni Lee, and Jordan Chiles ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics. During the qualifying round at the Bercy Arena, Team USA finished in first place with a 172.296 score, over 5 points above second place (Italy).

At age 16, Rivera was the youngest member of Team USA.  She competed on the beam and uneven bars during the qualifying round. The New Jersey native wasn't at her best on beam, earning a 12.633, placing 46th overall. She fared much better on the uneven bars, earning a 13.900, tied for 20th overall.

While Rivera did not compete during the Team Final, she still won a gold medal alongside her teammates. After returning to the States, Rivera announced that she was preparing for a major new venture.

"Guess where I'm going for my first official college visit!" Rivera posted.

Rivera, who relocated with her family to Plano, Texas in 2021 to train at the World Olympic Gymnastics Academy, didn't reveal which schools she was visiting. It's important to note that heading to university will not keep her from competing at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Rivera's teammate, Lee, previously attended Auburn. Following the Paris Olympics, Chiles announced that she's returning to UCLA this fall to compete on the Bruins' gymnastics team. Carey also announced her plans to return to Oregon State and compete on the Beavers' gymnastics squad for the 2024-25 season.

Much like the rest of the nation, USA Gymnastics is also excited to see what Rivera does next. They posted on August 26, "anyone else ready for more Hezly!? 2024 was just the beginning for @hezrivera & we can’t wait to see what the future holds!"

Related: Gymnast Hezly Rivera's Sister Calls Out MyKayla Skinner With Savage Message