2024 Olympic alternate turned Arkansas star Joscelyn Roberson wasted no time getting back to elite after NCAA season concluded in April. The rising sophomore opted to continue training in Fayetteville instead of returning to World Champions Centre, her prior elite club. At Arkansas, she’s training with the team’s assistant coach, 2016 U.S. Olympian Chris Brooks.
With just a three month turnaround from NCAA to elite, Roberson’s return at the U.S. Classic last weekend was a resounding success. She hoped to just get her feet wet, avoid falls, and manage her nerves, but she did that and then some, finishing third in the all-around with a 53.250. Roberson earned a 13.700 on vault for her double-twisting Yurchenko, tied for sixth on bars (her worst event) with an impressive 13.400, finished fourth on beam (13.350) with the only beam difficulty score in the 6s (6.1 to be exact), and showed a floor routine with plenty of potential (12.800). Here’s what Roberson had to say after the U.S. Classic and ahead of next month’s U.S. Championships.
Roberson on competing elite again
“College honestly helped me a lot. I didn’t think it would, just because of the different worlds, but I was so much less nervous once I got into the competition mode. I was not as nervous because I had trained so much, and I really just believed in myself – and that’s new.”
Roberson on former World Champions teammate Simone Biles being in attendance. “I mean, she’s the busiest human ever. She was at the ESPYs three days ago, and she called me, and she was like, ‘Okay, I have this, this, and this, but if you really want me there, I’ll be there. And I was like, ‘I kind of really want you there.’ And she was like, ‘Okay, so it’s done.’ And so she came, and she has to leave, like, tomorrow, and she’s just the best person and the biggest role model and support person that I could have.”
Gymnastics isn’t just about flips and medals—it’s about grit, evolution, and connections that push athletes beyond their limits. One gymnast living proof of this is Joscelyn Roberson, a rising star who’s been making serious waves on the elite scene. In a recent deep-dive conversation, Roberson opened up about her performance at the U.S. Classic, her jaw-dropping upgrades, and her tight-knit bond with none other than Simone Biles. Let’s unpack this story of growth, trust, and bold ambition in the world of American gymnastics.
Who is Joscelyn Roberson?
A Rising Star in American Gymnastics
Born with power, precision, and persistence, Joscelyn Roberson has been on the radar of gymnastics fans since her junior elite days. Now, as she steps into her own spotlight on the senior level, she’s proving she’s got more than just potential—she’s got the goods.
A Vaulting Powerhouse
Roberson is especially known for her explosive vaults. She’s among the few gymnasts consistently performing at a difficulty level that rivals world champions.
The U.S. Classic: A Comeback and A Statement
What Happened at the 2025 U.S. Classic
Roberson made her return to the competition floor at the U.S. Classic, an event considered a stepping stone to Nationals and World Championships. Coming off a minor injury, many were curious—would she play it safe, or go big?
No Holding Back
She didn’t just show up—she delivered. Hitting upgraded routines and showing confidence across all four events, Roberson made it clear: she’s gunning for the top.
A Strategic Test Run
While not every element was perfect, the Classic gave her and her coaches crucial feedback. It was a test, and she passed with flying colors.
The Upgrade Game: New Skills, New Risks
What’s New in Her Arsenal
Joscelyn unveiled upgraded skills in almost every event—particularly on floor and beam. These aren’t just flashy moves; they’re calculated risks meant to boost her start values.
Why It Matters
In elite gymnastics, difficulty = opportunity. Roberson’s new skills give her a competitive edge, especially when going head-to-head with the best in the world.
The “Wow” Factor
From full-twisting double layouts to an increased connection value on beam, she’s building routines that demand attention.
Learning from the Best: Bonding with Simone Biles
Training with a Legend
At World Champions Centre in Texas, Roberson trains alongside Simone Biles—arguably the greatest gymnast of all time. That’s not just motivating; it’s game-changing.
More Than Teammates—They’re Family
Roberson speaks fondly of Simone, noting how the Olympic icon brings calm, humor, and leadership into every training session.
“She’s always there if I need advice or just a laugh,” Roberson shared. “It’s like having a big sister who’s already done it all.”
Biles’ Influence on Roberson’s Mindset
Biles has helped Roberson navigate pressure, fear, and the grind of elite training. The mental strength she’s gained is as valuable as any skill upgrade.
Mind Over Matter: The Mental Game of Elite Gymnastics
Confidence is Everything
Roberson’s biggest shift this year? Believing in herself. With her physical upgrades in place, the real challenge is consistency—and that starts in the mind.
Visualizing Victory
She’s working on visualization techniques, affirmations, and confidence drills, often inspired by Biles’ own journey through mental health awareness.
Building Toward Bigger Goals
Eyes on Paris 2024 and Beyond
While the U.S. Classic was huge, Roberson is thinking long-term. Her sights are set on the 2025 World Championships and 2028 Olympics.
Ready for the Big Leagues
Her current upgrades suggest that she’s not just aiming to make teams—she wants to contribute scores, win medals, and lead.
Team USA Depth: Fierce Competition
Standing Out in a Crowded Field
With gymnasts like Shilese Jones, Jordan Chiles, and Kaliya Lincoln also pushing boundaries, Team USA is stacked.
What Sets Roberson Apart
Her combination of raw power, clean execution, and mental growth makes her uniquely dangerous in any lineup.
Coach-Athlete Chemistry: The Key to Success
A Trusting Relationship
Roberson credits her coaches for helping her manage expectations while pushing her potential.
Communication is Queen
In elite sports, being able to speak up and be heard is crucial. Roberson’s team fosters open, honest conversations about routines, rest, and readiness.
Injury and Recovery: A Real Talk Moment
Bouncing Back from Setbacks
Earlier this season, Roberson took time off due to a minor ankle sprain. Instead of rushing back, she chose to rebuild smart.
Stronger Than Ever
That break became a blessing in disguise. She returned hungrier, healthier, and technically sharper.
Social Media Buzz: Fans Can’t Get Enough
Viral Moments
Clips of Roberson’s new floor pass and explosive vault have blown up on TikTok and Instagram. Her fanbase is growing fast.
Why She’s So Relatable
Beyond her skills, Roberson’s authenticity is what draws fans in. She’s raw, she’s real, and she’s not afraid to show her struggles.
What’s Next: Championships, Trials, and Dreams
Roadmap to the World Stage
Roberson’s plan includes peaking at Nationals, making a splash at World Trials, and hopefully, earning her first senior Worlds team spot.
A Dream in Motion
She’s not dreaming small—and we shouldn’t either. Every skill, every bond, every upgrade is part of a larger mission: to become a legend.
Conclusion: A Star on the Rise with Fire in Her Eyes
Joscelyn Roberson isn’t just “one to watch”—she’s one to remember. From the explosive vaults to her evolving floor routine, her growth is obvious. But it’s her grit, her wisdom, and her bond with Simone Biles that show just how far she’s willing to go.
The U.S. Classic was just the start. Now? She’s gearing up for greatness.
