Hezly Rivera Dominates Winter Cup, Signaling a New Era for US Women’s Gymnastics
Hezly Rivera, the 2024 Olympic gold medalist, sent a clear message at the 2026 Winter Cup in Louisville, Kentucky: she’s back and better than ever. Rivera claimed the women’s All-Around title with a commanding score of 56.750, showcasing consistency and high scores across all events.
Rivera’s Road to Recovery and Reign
Rivera’s performance marks a significant comeback. After a successful 2025, where she won the U.S. All-Around title and multiple event golds, an injury prevented her from competing at the 2025 World Championships. Her Winter Cup performance demonstrates a full recovery and a renewed focus.
She secured gold on beam (14.200) and floor (14.100), and silver on uneven bars (14.300). Her vault score of 14.150 was among the highest of the night, highlighting her all-around prowess. Rivera is now preparing for the American Cup in March and the 2026 World Championships in Rotterdam.
Rising Stars Shine: Bullock and Pease Make Their Mark
The Winter Cup wasn’t just about Rivera’s triumph. It too showcased the emergence of new talent within the US gymnastics program.
Charleigh Bullock, in her senior debut, secured the All-Around silver medal (55.200) and a gold medal on uneven bars with a score of 14.400. Her success follows a strong junior career, including gold medals at the 2025 Junior Pan American Games and a bronze medal with Team USA at Junior Worlds.
Claire Pease, the 2025 U.S. Classic All-Around Champion, claimed the All-Around bronze (54.350) and the vault title (14.050). Like Rivera, Pease faced an injury that sidelined her from the 2025 World Championships, but she’s now back and competing at a high level.
The American Cup and Beyond: A Look at the Road to LA 2028
Rivera, Bullock, and Pease will all compete at the American Cup in Las Vegas in March. This competition will serve as a crucial stepping stone towards the 2026 World Championships and, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The strong performances at the Winter Cup suggest a bright future for US women’s gymnastics. The depth of talent is evident, with established stars like Rivera and promising newcomers like Bullock and Pease all vying for a spot on the national team.
FAQ
Q: Who won the All-Around title at the 2026 Winter Cup?
A: Hezly Rivera won the All-Around title with a score of 56.750.
Q: Who won the uneven bars title?
A: Charleigh Bullock won the uneven bars title with a score of 14.400.
Q: Who won the vault title?
A: Claire Pease won the vault title with a score of 14.050.
Q: Where will Rivera, Bullock, and Pease compete next?
A: They will all compete at the American Cup in Las Vegas in March.
Did you know? Charleigh Bullock is competing in her first year as a senior gymnast.
Pro Tip: Consistent performance across all events is key to success in all-around competition.
What did you think of the performances at the Winter Cup? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
