Team USA’s Top Olympic Hopefuls to Watch in 2025

By Jayson Panganiban July 10, 2025 09:28 GMT+4 min read

As the world gears up for the next Olympic cycle, Team USA is already shaping a formidable roster of athletes poised to make a significant impact on the global stage. With the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on the horizon, 2025 serves as a critical year for these hopefuls to solidify their status and build momentum. From track and field to gymnastics and beyond, here are some of the top American athletes to watch in 2025.

Kenny Bednarek and Erriyon Knighton: Sprinting Sensations

In athletics, sprinters Kenny Bednarek and Erriyon Knighton lead Team USA’s charge. Bednarek, a two-time Olympic silver medalist in the men’s 200m, has been a consistent force on the track. Despite the heartbreak of a disqualification in the men’s 4x100m relay final at Paris 2024, Bednarek bounced back by helping secure gold at the 2024 World Relays in Nassau. His blend of speed and experience makes him a key figure in upcoming relay events, including the new mixed 4x100m relay format debuting at the 2025 World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China. Knighton, a rising star known for his explosive starts and raw talent, is expected to challenge for individual sprint golds and continue Team USA’s legacy of dominance in short-distance events.

Twanisha “TeeTee” Terry: Emerging Sprint Star

On the women’s side, Twanisha Terry has emerged as a bright prospect. Crowned an Olympic champion as part of the women’s 4x100m relay team in Paris, Terry combines speed with technical precision. Her performances have earned her a spot among nine Olympians representing the U.S. at the 2025 World Athletics Relays, where she will look to build on her relay success and stake a claim for individual events.

Simone Biles: Gymnastics Icon Continuing Her Legacy

Simone Biles remains a towering figure in gymnastics. Despite stepping back at times due to mental health considerations, Biles has demonstrated resilience and a commitment to excellence. As the U.S. prepares for the 2025 World Championships and beyond, Biles’s leadership and unparalleled skill set position her as a favorite for continued Olympic glory. Alongside teammates like Jade Carey and Jordan Chiles, Biles anchors a team that blends experience with youth, aiming to maintain the U.S.’s dominance in women’s gymnastics.

Allyson Felix: Track & Field Legend and Mentor

Though Allyson Felix recently announced her induction into the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame, her influence extends beyond her competitive years. With 11 Olympic medals six gold Felix’s legacy inspires a new generation of athletes. Her transition into mentorship and advocacy for athletes’ rights continues to shape Team USA’s culture and competitive spirit.

Rising Stars in Other Sports

Team USA’s strength extends beyond track and gymnastics. In diving, young talents like Carson Tyler are making waves, with Tyler set to become the first American man since 2000 to compete in both individual diving events at the Olympics. In basketball, the U19 national teams are brimming with future stars, including AJ Dybantsa and Mikel Brown Jr., who are expected to develop into key contributors on the senior national teams.

The Importance of Experience and Legacy

The 2025 U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame induction ceremony, scheduled for July 12 in Colorado Springs, highlights the enduring legacy of American Olympians. Inductees such as Gabby Douglas, Kerri Walsh Jennings, and Serena Williams exemplify the dedication and excellence that current hopefuls aspire to emulate. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the commitment required to reach the pinnacle of sport.

As 2025 unfolds, Team USA’s Olympic hopefuls are not only chasing medals but also carrying the weight of a proud tradition. Athletes like Kenny Bednarek, Twanisha Terry, and Simone Biles represent the blend of experience and youth that will define the next Olympic cycle. Their performances at key events like the World Athletics Relays and World Championships will set the tone for Team USA’s quest for gold in the years to come.

With a combination of proven champions and rising stars, the future of American Olympic sport looks exceptionally bright. Fans should keep a close eye on these athletes as they prepare to write the next chapter in Team USA’s storied Olympic history.