Plano Hezly Rivera youngest Team USA member Paris Olympics

Hezly Rivera, 16, from Plano, is the youngest on Team USA for the Paris Olympics. Dreams do come true!

Hezly Rivera, a 16-year-old gymnast from Plano, has achieved her childhood dream by securing a spot on the Team USA Olympic gymnastics team heading to the Paris Olympics. Rivera, the youngest member of the team at just 16 years and 26 days old, expressed her excitement and gratitude upon learning of her selection.

Training at the prestigious World Olympics Gymnastics Academy (WOGA) in Plano, Rivera is surrounded by some of the world's greatest gymnasts. She credits her coaches, family, friends, and teammates for their support and acknowledges the sacrifices she has made to reach this point.

Despite her youth, Rivera approached the Olympic trials with a veteran mindset, focusing on her performance and staying calm under pressure. She views the experienced members of the team, including Simone Biles and Suni Lee, as mentors who will guide her both at the Games and in training.

Reflecting on her journey, Rivera recalls watching the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and dreaming of being part of the team. Now, she is living that dream and is eager to contribute her skills on the bars and beam to the team's success. Her father, who has been a constant source of support, was emotional when her name was announced as a team member, highlighting the sacrifices her family has made to help her pursue her Olympic goals.

The entire USA Gymnastics delegation for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris has been finalized, with Rivera set to represent her country on the world stage alongside her talented teammates.