Stephen Nedoroscik, the 25-year-old gymnast, known for his distinctive glasses and love for Rubik’s cubes, has earned the nickname “Clark Kent of gymnastics” from online fans.
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He recently reacted to his newfound internet fame as a meme — all while creating another meme-worthy moment by wearing TODAY co-anchor Hoda Kotb’s sunglasses during a July 30 interview.
Nedoroscik, who proudly wore his bronze medal alongside Hoda’s black sunglasses, joined his teammates Brody Malone and Asher Hong on the TODAY show to discuss their July 29 performance, which secured the U.S. men’s gymnastics team a podium spot for the first time since 2008.
During the interview, Hoda asked Nedoroscik about his thoughts on becoming a meme, referencing a viral photo of him looking calm and composed while wearing his glasses just before helping the U.S. team win the bronze medal.
“I think they’re awesome,” he said with a laugh. “I’m representing people that wear glasses well.”
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During the TODAY interview, Hoda explained that Nedoroscik was wearing her sunglasses due to eye sensitivity. He then shared what was going through his mind in that viral moment just before his routine.
“I’m doing my breathing exercises,” he told Hoda and Savannah Guthrie. “We always try to keep our heart rate down, and through that five minutes I’m sitting there, I’m just visualizing my routine over and over … that’s all I’m doing in my head.”
Nedoroscik also discussed the experience of removing his glasses before performing on his specialty, the pommel horse.
“It’s not necessarily clear, but the thing about pommel horse is if I keep them on, they’re gonna fly somewhere,” he explained. “When I go up on the pommel horse, it’s all about feeling the equipment. I don’t even really see when I’m doing my gymnastics. It’s all in the hands — I can feel everything.”
Stephen Nedoroscik’s calm demeanor and unique style have not only contributed to his gymnastics success but also made him a beloved figure and an internet sensation.
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