The Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships in Phoenix are more than just a national competition. For Jade Carey, the event marks a key moment in her journey toward a possible final Olympics appearance at home in 2028. As a two-time Olympic gold medalist, she is competing in her hometown, a place she once called home and now sees as a potential stage for her final performance in the sport.
women’s team secure a gold medal. Her performance at nationals is important for earning a spot on the five-woman team set to compete at the 2025 World Championships in Rotterdam, Netherlands, in October. While the final team selection won’t be made until an autumn competition, her current results already carry weight.
Olympians on the comeback trail
Carey is not the only athlete in Phoenix with a comeback story. Skye Blakely, who placed second in the 2024 U.S. all-around behind Simone Biles, is returning to the sport after rupturing her Achilles tendon just days before the 2024 Olympic Trials. At the 2025 Nationals, she competed only on the balance beam and uneven bars. Now, she’s preparing to return to full competition next week. 'I’m just really excited and proud of the journey I’ve been on.'
Leanne Wong, the 2025 World all-around silver medalist, is also making a comeback after struggling with a wrist injury that limited her performance at the U.S. Classic on July 19. Expectations are high for her to show strong form in Phoenix as she regains her footing in elite gymnastics.
Hezly Rivera, the youngest U.S. Olympian to compete in Paris at just 16, is also in the mix with her own comeback story. After winning the 2025 U.S. all-around title — making her the youngest champion since 2017 — she suffered an ankle injury that knocked her out of the 2025 World Championships. Her presence adds a new dynamic to the competition as she looks to rebuild her career.
Men’s field chasing a new era
On the men’s side, Frederick Richard is aiming for his first U.S. all-around title. The 2024 Olympic Trials all-around champion fell short of making the 2025 World Championships after placing outside the top two on all individual events at nationals. Despite the setback, he remains confident. 'I’m locking in for world championships this October,' Richard said in a social media video posted in May. 'There will be a gold medal from worlds on my neck, somehow, probably all-around.'
Stephen Nedoroscik, who gained fame as the 'Pommel Horse Guy' during the 2024 Paris Games, missed the 2025 World team after a nine-month break from training. He returned to competition at the 2025 Nationals but is now battling a shoulder injury. In October 2025, Nedoroscik underwent hip surgery to repair a double labrum tear and cartilage damage, and though the hip is pain-free, his return to full training has been hindered.
Yul Moldauer, the 2017 U.S. all-around champion, is also returning after missing all of 2025 due to a suspension related to missed drug tests. Shane Wiskus, who was part of the Tokyo Olympic team, is making a comeback after sitting out the entire 2025 season due to shoulder surgery. Both men bring experience to a men’s field that is still in transition.
Asher Hong and Brody Malone, who have collectively won the last five U.S. all-around titles, are not competing in 2025. Malone has taken a break from gymnastics with plans to return in 2026. Their absences open the door for new leaders to step forward in the men’s competition, with Richard and Nedoroscik among those hoping to fill the void.