North Texas gymnast joins Team USA for Paris Olympics

PLANO (KDAF) — Texas pride shines as Hezly Rivera, the youngest member of Team USA , prepares to represent the nation in Paris. Rivera, just 16 years old, hails from Plano, where she lives and trains at the prestigious World Olympic Gymnastics Academy (WOGA).

Founded by athletic champions Valeri Liukin and Yevgeny Marchenko, WOGA in Plano has assembled gold medalists, including Carly Patterson, Nastia Liukin, and Madison Kocian. Rivera’s selection as the fifth member of the U.S. women’s gymnastics team places her next to veterans like Simone Biles, Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles, and Jade Carey, all seasoned competitors on the national stage.

Originally from New Jersey, Rivera’s gymnastics prowess was clear when she clinched the all-around title in the junior division at the 2023 U.S. Championships. Her debut in the senior-level championships led her to sixth place. Known for her exceptional skills on the uneven bars and balance beam, Rivera’s dedication and talent have propelled her to this prestigious opportunity despite her young age.

According to the Associated Press, this year’s Olympic team is the oldest gymnastics team ever to represent the United States. With Rivera’s inclusion, Texas has another athlete to approach the international stage in Paris.

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