USA Gymnastics Prepares for World Championships in Jakarta
In a thrilling blend of experience and fresh talent, USA Gymnastics is gearing up for the upcoming world championships in Jakarta, Indonesia, later this month. The team’s roster features four remarkable athletes: Dulcy Caylor, Leanne Wong, Skye Blakely, and Joscelyn Roberson. This diverse group underscores the organization’s commitment to showcasing both seasoned expertise and emerging potential.
Dulcy Caylor: Rising Star
At just 17 years old, Dulcy Caylor has captured the spotlight by earning an automatic spot on the team after a stellar performance at the selection camp. She posted the top score in the all-around competition, marking her first trip to this prestigious event during a non-Olympic year. Caylor’s selection symbolizes not only her individual talent but also the vast possibilities for future stars in American gymnastics.
Leanne Wong: Proven Competitor
Alongside Caylor is Leanne Wong, a formidable presence with an impressive track record. A four-time world championship medalist, Wong has consistently demonstrated her elite skills. She won silver in the all-around and bronze on the floor exercise in 2021, contributing to the gold-medal-winning U.S. teams in 2022 and 2023. As an alternate for the 2024 Olympic team, Wong continues to raise her game, highlighted by her recent top average on vault during competition. Her experience will be indispensable as the team navigates the challenges ahead.
Skye Blakely: Resilient and Ready
After 16 months away from the international competition due to an Achilles injury incurred at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials, Skye Blakely is making her return. A member of the previous two U.S. championship-winning teams, Blakely has found her form again, posting the highest scores on both uneven bars and balance beam at the recent trials. Her tenacity and skill will play a crucial role in bolstering the team’s overall performance.
Joscelyn Roberson: Returning Champion
Joscelyn Roberson returns to the world stage with confidence after winning gold alongside fellow American gymnasts, including the illustrious Simone Biles, at the 2023 world championships. As an alternate on the 2024 Olympic team, Roberson showcased her abilities in the selection competition, finishing as the third-highest all-around scorer. With a solid average of 13.950 on vault, she adds depth and experience to the lineup, making her a key asset in Jakarta.
A Notable Absence: Hezly Rivera
While the team is rich in talent, it’s also marked by the absence of Hezly Rivera, the reigning national champion and a member of the gold-medal-winning team in Paris 2024. Unfortunately, Rivera suffered an ankle injury during preparations for the selection camp, preventing her from competing. Her absence is felt, but it also highlights the depth of the U.S. gymnastics program in nurturing skilled athletes ready to step into the fray.
Format of the World Championships
Unlike in past years, this edition of the world championships will not feature a team competition—a format that will return in 2026 when the meet relocates to the Netherlands. This shift allows individual athletes to shine, encouraging each gymnast to focus on their personal best, which could add a different dynamic to the competitions in Jakarta.
As USA Gymnastics prepares for this significant international event, all eyes will be on the diverse squad set to represent the nation. With a blend of emerging talent and seasoned competitors, the team stands at the precipice of exciting possibilities, set to make waves on the world stage.