Stephen Nedoroscik wins US men’s gymnastics’ first Olympic medal in 16 years, calls it 'greatest moment'
PARIS, FRANCE: Stephen Nedoroscik had made it clear he had to nail the pommel horse before heading into the men’s gymnastics team final at the Paris Olympics on Monday, July 29.
His impressive display helped push him and his Team USA teammates to a bronze medal, the US men’s gymnastics team’s first Olympic medal in 16 years.
Stephen Nedoroscik reflects on his performance before securing bronze medal
Stephen Nedoroscik, 25, delivered a nearly perfect routine, scoring 14.866.
The Massachusetts native’s performance was crucial in securing the medal, coming just 1.801 points behind the gold medal-winning Japan. China ranked second for silver.
Reflecting on his performance, Nedoroscik expressed immense joy and pride. He also acknowledged the role and support of his team.
“It was just the greatest moment of my life, I think,” Nedoroscik told People in Paris, of acing his routine. “[I’m] so happy to have been there.”
He said it had been a “really long day” leading up to his moment in the spotlight, but he was excited that the pommel horse was the final apparatus.
“I framed that in my head as a positive, like I can be the exclamation point,” Nedoroscik said.
Before clinching the bronze medal, the Pennsylvania State University alumnus went viral on social media for his eyeglasses and resemblance to 'Superman' character Clark Kent.
Also known as the 'pommel horse guy,' he described his preparedness for the event.
After doing breathing exercises, he recalled, "I kind of, in that moment, was like, ‘Alright, let’s run it back, then. Let’s go out there and do our thing.' ...I went up there, did my routine and during that dismount, I was just like, already smiling.”
Stephen Nedoroscik: Viral sensation for his looks and performance
Stephen Nedoroscik's performance and unique appearance before made him a viral sensation on social media.
Fans have been captivated by his resemblance to Clark Kent and his impressive gymnastics skills.
“Obsessed with this guy on the US men’s gymnastics team who’s [sic] only job is pommel horse,” wrote user Megan on X (formerly Twitter) after Nedoroscik’s stunning performance.
“He just sits there until he’s activated like a sleeper agent, whips off his glasses like Clark Kent and does a pommel horse routine that helps deliver the team its first medal in 16 years.”
Notably, Nedoroscik had gone viral before his performance for his looks.
Nedoroscik's eight-year-long girlfriend, Tess McCracken also celebrated his win.
She posted a photograph with him and wrote, “History = Made,” McCracken began. “The most insane, magical day watching you close it out to bring home the first team medal for USA in sixteen years Words can’t capture how proud I am of you.”
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Internet reacts to Stephen Nedoroscik's medal-winning performance
Netizens were abuzz with praise and admiration for Stephen Nedoroscik and his team.
Fans took to social media to share their excitement and support after the gymnast expressed how nailing the routine was the greatest moment of his life.
“Awesome job Young man. You and your team were amazing. Thank you and CONGRATS!!!” commented one on Facebook.
Another wrote, "He's adorable and has great energy." One more commented, "I like the glasses."
"Superman! Awesome! Congratulations to Team USA!" penned one and another said, "Rockstar!! Love this kid!"
One more comment read, "It was great to watch."
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