Hezly Rivera Does Flip and Throws First Pitch at Rangers Game

Hezly Rivera throws out the ceremonial first pitch before the start of the game between the Texas Rangers and the New York Yankees.Photo byRon Jenkins / Getty Images

Disclaimer: This article was written with the help of A.I. software.

Gold medalist Hezly Rivera, the youngest member of the 2024 U.S. Olympic women’s gymnastics team, wowed the crowd at Globe Life Field on September 4, 2024, when she performed a flip before throwing the ceremonial first pitch at the Texas Rangers vs. New York Yankees game. The 16-year-old gymnast, part of the U.S. women’s team known as the "Golden Girls," displayed her athletic skills in front of thousands of fans, marking yet another impressive moment in her rising career.

Photo byRon Jenkins / Getty Images

Rivera’s Show-Stopping Moment

Rivera’s dazzling flip before throwing a perfect strike gained attention across social media, with the MLB’s official X (formerly Twitter) account calling her move “unreal.” Fans at Globe Life Field, along with those watching online, were amazed by her precision and grace.

• Gold Medal Glory: Rivera proudly wore her Olympic gold medal during the event, a symbol of her and her team’s triumph in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
• Humble Beginnings: Originally from New Jersey, Rivera relocated to Plano, Texas, to train at the prestigious World Olympic Gymnastics Academy (WOGA).
• Family Support: Rivera’s parents, Henry Rivera and Heidy Ruiz, who have been cheering her on throughout her journey, were also present at the game.

Rivera Reflects on Her Journey

Rivera’s appearance at the Rangers game comes just months after her historic performance in Paris. Speaking with TODAY’s Hoda Kotb earlier this summer, she described her gymnastics experience as “surreal.”

“I cannot believe that I’m here right now. It’s just — all my hard work has been paying off,” Rivera said. “I’m so excited to represent Team USA at the Olympics. I’m, like, shocked.”

Conclusion

Rivera’s flip and pitch at Globe Life Field marked another highlight in the gymnast’s young career, showing that her skills extend beyond the gymnastics mat. As she continues her journey, the world will be watching closely to see what this talented teen will achieve next.

Source: TODAY