MINNEAPOLIS – Just a week ago, Alicia Sacramone Quinn was worried about the tough decision she and her team had to make in selecting the 2024 Olympic team. With many options and a competitive field, Quinn was dreading her job.
However, the decision turned out to be easier than anticipated, as they only needed to look back at the Tokyo selection.
The United States will be sending four members of the 2020 Olympic team to Paris – Simone Biles, Sunisa Lee, Jordan Chiles, and Jade Carey – with one spot reserved for a rookie. This spot went to 16-year-old Hezly Rivera, the youngest rookie who only became senior eligible this year.
Rivera secured the fifth spot after a fierce competition on the final day, with her scores on balance beam and uneven bars being better than anyone else’s.
For the very first time, we proudly introduce the 2024 U.S. Olympic Women’s Gymnastics Team presented by @Xfinity!
➡️ Hezly Rivera
➡️ Jade Carey
➡️ Simone Biles
➡️ Suni Lee
➡️ Jordan ChilesTraveling Replacement Athletes: Joscelyn Roberson & Leanne Wong pic.twitter.com/btf44HDjSL
— USA Gymnastics (@USAGym) July 1, 2024
This team aims to excel in balance beam and uneven bars, and Rivera’s exceptional performances in these areas gave her the edge. Quinn mentioned that Rivera’s capabilities in hitting bars and beam influenced the committee’s decision, considering future Olympics as well.
GO DEEPER
Meet Hezly Rivera, gymnast who will make Olympic debut alongside veterans
It is undeniably a star-studded team, with renowned athletes who have consistently enthralled the fans.
Among them, Simone Biles shines the brightest. Her exceptional athleticism and routines captivated the audience in Target Center.
