Gymnastics Community Stunned by Unexpected Name After Top Contenders Pull Out of Upcoming Event

In April, the LSU Academic Center took to X to highlight the determination of one of their standout gymnasts, quoting Derek Jeter: “There may be people who have more talent than you, but there’s no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do – and I believe that.” Alongside the quote, the gymnast was honored as LSU’s final March Student-Athlete of the Month for her efforts. Although the Tigers couldn’t retain their national championship crown, the 19-year-old carved out a place for herself through sheer perseverance. How so? 

On April 27, Lexi Zeiss stepped onto the biggest stage of college gymnastics—the NCAA Championships Semifinal II—and delivered. Competing in two events, she scored a solid 9.800 on vault and an impressive 9.900 on the uneven bars. But her semifinal performance was just the tip of the iceberg. All season long, Lexi had been quietly consistent, her routines lighting up scoreboards with averages hovering around the 9.8 mark. Even though LSU fell short of defending its national title, the 19-year-old made sure her presence was felt. And now, that consistency is paying off—just not in the way anyone expected.

Fast forward to June 10. USA Gymnastics posted the roster for the 2025 American and Hopes Classic on X. Scrolling through the senior lineup, fans spotted a name they didn’t anticipate: Lexi Zeiss. Notably absent? Olympic veterans and World Championship contenders like Leanne Wong, Joscelyn Roberson, and Jade Carey. In their place, Zeiss and others like Reese Esponda are stepping up—and stepping in. Suddenly, the balance of power in American gymnastics looks… different.

Say hello to your American & Hopes Classic registered athletes!

Full schedule & coverage information coming soon! pic.twitter.com/J6O473bhGU

— USA Gymnastics (@USAGym) June 11, 2025

The surprise was enough to stir chatter online. One Reddit user summed it up perfectly: “Lexi Zeiss?! Didn’t see that one coming.” And yet, maybe we should have. While big names take a breather or recalibrate their paths, Lexi’s been quietly building, grinding, and delivering. Her inclusion on the American Classic roster isn’t a fluke—it’s the result of relentless work in a sport that rewards both flash and fortitude.

The report is developing…

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