Fred Richard is one competition away from becoming the U.S. National Champion. The 22-year-old won night one of the men’s senior division at the 2026 U.S. Championships in Phoenix, edging out rising star Danila Leykin by just 0.153.
Richard, the 2023 World all-around bronze medalist and 2024 Olympic team bronze medalist, returned to the U.S. championships this summer after missing out on the 2025 World Championship team. Heading into the final day of competition, Richard also leads the national field on floor exercise.
Though Leykin does not hold a top spot on any event, the 19-year-old finished in the top five on four of six apparatuses. Considered a formidable threat for the men’s title and potential 2028 Olympic star, Leykin is in strong position to battle Richard for gold on Saturday.
2020 Olympian Shane Wiskus rounded out Thursday’s podium in third place, delivering a strong showing in his first U.S. Championship meet since 2024. Thursday’s best performances spread the entire field, with six different men leading the six individual apparatus races.
Defending U.S. Champion and World bronze medalist Patrick Hoopes dominated on the pommel horse, scoring a massive 15.641 to defeat two-time Olympic bronze medalist Stephen Nedoroscik. Nedoroscik was strong in his return, posting a 14.958 for second place.
Just months after winning the NCAA crown, Asher Cohen took a leap toward winning the U.S. still rings title, posting a 15.075 to lead the field after one. Olympic veteran and fan favorite Yul Moldauer claimed the lead on parallel bars, and Cooper Kim on high bar with a huge 15.368. 2025 World team member Kameron Nelson holds the lead on vault after nailing his difficult vault, called a “Roche.”
National and World Championship Stakes
While scores carry over to Saturday’s competition and medal round, the stakes are raised. In addition to contending for national titles, the men will compete for spots on the 2026 World Championship Team.
The Men’s Senior Selection Committee (SSC) will name the six-man team (one alternate) at the conclusion of Saturday’s competition. Day two of men’s competition begins at 7:30 p.m. ET, broadcast live on NBCSN/Peacock.