For the first time since 2022, there will be a new U.S. national gymnastics champion in the women’s division. Simone Biles has won every national title she has competed for (since 2013), with Konnor McClain (2022) and Ragan Smith (2017) winning in Biles’ years away from the sport. With Biles’ future on the competitive stage on hold, 2025 marks another year for a new star to emerge as national champion. On Sunday, one athlete will etch her name into the gymnastics record books at the 2025 U.S. Gymnastics Championships.
Held August 7 through 10, twenty-four athletes will vie for the all-around and event titles in the women’s senior field, with 19 competing in the junior division. Scores from night one will carry over into the final day, and the combined totals will determine the all-around and event final winners. Junior phenom Lavi Crain is expected to dominate her division. The 14-year-old is undefeated in 2025 and most recently cruised to the title at the U.S. Classic in July. The senior field is wide open, with five national titles – including the coveted all-around title – up for grabs. Here’s who’s expected to contend for the crown in New Orleans.
A Championship Without Simone Biles—Now What?
When the GOAT of gymnastics, Simone Biles, steps away from competition—even temporarily—the ripple effect across the gymnastics world is massive. The 2025 U.S. Gymnastics Championships, set to crown the nation’s top talent, is suddenly wide open. And that means one thing: a thrilling battle for the crown.
So, who’s ready to take center stage? Let’s break down the top contenders and rising stars who are about to turn this championship into a showdown you won’t want to miss.
The Changing of the Guard in U.S. Gymnastics
Why Simone Biles Isn’t Competing This Year
Let’s get this out of the way: Simone Biles has chosen not to compete at the 2025 Championships, focusing instead on rest, recovery, and long-term planning post-Olympics. After carrying the weight of a nation (and winning more medals than we can count), she’s earned this breather. But her absence isn’t the end of excitement—it’s just the start of a new chapter.
What Her Absence Means for the Competition
Without Simone, the field opens up in a big way. There’s no runaway favorite. Every routine matters. And the pressure? It’s sky-high. For the athletes, this is the opportunity of a lifetime—to step out of her shadow and into the spotlight.
Top Contenders You Need to Know
Shilese Jones – The New Leader of the Pack
Shilese Jones has already made a name for herself with powerhouse performances and Olympic-level poise. Her elegant lines and technical precision have earned her comparisons to Biles—though Jones is carving her own legacy. Expect fireworks on bars and a strong showing on beam.
Skye Blakely – The Underdog No More
Remember the name Skye Blakely. Her routines are clean, composed, and increasingly difficult. She’s added upgrades across the board and is looking stronger than ever. With a quiet confidence, Blakely could surprise everyone and walk away with the all-around title.
Kaliya Lincoln – Explosive Power on Floor
Lincoln brings undeniable energy, especially on floor exercise. Her tumbling passes defy gravity, and her charisma is off the charts. If she nails her routines, she could easily land on the podium—or even at the top.
Tiana Sumanasekera – Vaulting Into the Spotlight
She may be newer to the senior scene, but Tiana’s vaults are among the most powerful in the competition. Her potential is massive, and this could be the year she breaks through.
Kayla DiCello – The Comeback Queen
DiCello’s journey has been full of ups and downs, but she’s back in form. With clean execution and solid all-around abilities, she’s a veteran who knows how to handle pressure.
Rising Stars to Watch
Joscelyn Roberson – Precision and Poise
While not yet a household name, Roberson is one to keep an eye on. Her bar work is crisp, and her consistency makes her a serious threat.
Hezly Rivera – A Star in the Making
Hezly is still young, but she’s showing signs of greatness. Her artistry is captivating, and she has all the ingredients of a future champion.
Zoe Miller – Bars Specialist with Serious Skill
Miller’s work on uneven bars could rival anyone in the world. If she can deliver across all four events, she could surprise the field.
Events That Will Define the Championship
Floor Exercise – Who Has the Spark?
Without Simone’s signature flips, the floor title is up for grabs. Look for Kaliya Lincoln and Shilese Jones to battle it out with artistry and amplitude.
Uneven Bars – A Technical Showcase
Jones and Miller are bar queens. This event could be the deciding factor in the all-around race.
Vault – Power vs. Precision
Tiana Sumanasekera and Roberson have some of the hardest vaults in the competition. But it’s not just about difficulty—landing matters.
Beam – The Nerve Test
Beam always decides titles. One wobble can end a dream. Consistency will be key—and this is where veterans like DiCello shine.
The Mental Game – Who Can Handle the Pressure?
A New Generation Facing the Spotlight
With Simone gone, there’s no shield. These gymnasts must now carry the media attention, the crowd’s energy, and the pressure of legacy. Who can stay calm, hit their routines, and thrive?
Coaches, Choreography, and Strategy
Don’t underestimate the role of smart coaching and strategic upgrades. Coaches are playing chess behind the scenes—deciding when to risk and when to play it safe.
Why You Should Watch This Championship
It’s More Than Just a Competition
This isn’t just about gold medals. It’s about witnessing the rise of new icons. The performances at this championship could shape the next Olympic team and define the next era in gymnastics.
The Energy Will Be Electric
No Simone? No problem. The audience will be buzzing, the routines will be thrilling, and history is going to be made.
Conclusion: The Spotlight Is Open—Who Will Seize It?
Simone Biles may be sitting this one out, but the 2025 U.S. Gymnastics Championships promise to be unforgettable. A new queen will be crowned. Whether it’s a rising star or a seasoned veteran, someone is about to become a household name. Gymnastics is changing. And this championship is where the next chapter begins.
