Hezly Rivera, the 18‑year‑old Olympic gold medalist, secured her second straight national title on Sunday, rallying from fourth into the lead with four poised routines. Her two‑day total of 111.950 out‑shone runner‑up Claire Pease, making Rivera the first American woman not named Simone Biles to repeat a national title since former world champion Jordyn Wieber.

Rivera described herself as the "underdog" in Paris two years ago, joining a seasoned group that helped the U.S. win its third team gold. While teammates like Simone Biles and Suni Lee are on extended breaks, Rivera kept training and recently overcame a fall on uneven bars that threatened her title defense.

She opened Sunday on bars with a gritty routine, including a mini‑stall near the end, earning a solid 13.850. The judges rewarded her determination, and her momentum carried through the floor routine, solidifying her veteran status. Pease and Skye Blakely struggled to keep up, with Pease’s floor pass ending in an out‑of‑bounds step.

Charleigh Bullock finished third, Reese Esponda fourth, and two‑time Olympic gold medalist Jade Carey fifth. Rivera’s victory not only cements her place as a leader for the next wave of U.S. gymnasts but also positions her for the upcoming world championships in the Netherlands.