Gymnast Hezly Rivera Joins U.S. Olympic Team at Tokyo Games

Hezly Rivera, a 16-year-old gymnast from Minneapolis, had big plans for the summer – learning how to drive. However, those plans have been put on hold as she has been selected to join Simone Biles on the U.S. gymnastics team at the Olympics. Rivera, a self-proclaimed “underdog,” shocked herself and many others by earning a spot on the team after an impressive performance at the U.S. Olympic trials.

Despite a shaky start at the trials, Rivera persevered and showed maturity beyond her years. Her unexpected arrival adds a youthful energy to the oldest U.S. women’s Olympic gymnastics team ever. Rivera, who just turned 16, is a throwback to a time when teenagers dominated the Olympic roster.

Rivera’s journey to the Olympics was not without obstacles, but her calm and collected demeanor helped her seize the opportunity when it presented itself. With the support of her family and coaches, she is ready to step onto the world’s biggest stage and compete alongside her idols-turned-teammates.

As she prepares for the Olympics, Rivera is focused on documenting every moment and being the happiest version of herself. While her driving lessons may have to wait, the opportunity to represent her country at the Olympics is a dream come true for the talented young gymnast.