American gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik gains fame as the ‘pommel horse guy’ during Paris Olympics
A gymnast from Team USA, known as the “Clark Kent of the pommel horse” and “pommel horse guy,” is competing to become the internet’s favorite Olympian.
Stephen Nedoroscik earned a spot on the Olympic team based solely on his pommel horse routine and contributed to the men’s gymnastics team winning their first medal in 16 years.
Prior to showcasing his routine on the pommel horse, the 25-year-old spent nearly three hours waiting on the sidelines, where he charmed viewers with his presence.
After his performance, during which he removed his glasses, he was quickly dubbed “Mr. Pommel Horse” on social media.
His girlfriend Tess McCracken shared with NBC News that she enjoys the memes circulating about Nedoroscik.
In addition to being compared to Clark Kent, Superman’s alter-ego with glasses, there have been jokes about his job being “pommel horse” similar to Ken’s job being described as “beach” in a Barbie movie. He has also been referred to as the team’s “babygirl,” a term that can convey various meanings.
“Becoming a sensation on the internet has been a surprising outcome of this whole journey,” Ms. McCracken expressed to NBC News.
Pic: AP
Nedoroscik shared on NBC’s Today Show that he appreciated the comparison to Clark Kent.
“I think that’s a great comparison. In a way, it’s quite accurate. I’m a bit goofy with my glasses on, but once I take them off, I’m focused and ready to perform,” he said.
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Nedoroscik explained on the Today Show that he had to remove his glasses before his routine to prevent them from flying off during his pommel horse performance.
“I don’t really depend on my vision while doing gymnastics,” he said. “It’s all about the feel in my hands. I can sense everything.”
Nedoroscik will be competing again on Saturday in the individual event, the men’s pommel horse final.
