Stephen Nedoroscik has once again captured attention at the Olympics. Just days after impressing audiences in Paris, the American gymnast secured a podium finish in the pommel horse event.
Nedoroscik initially made headlines when the U.S. men’s gymnastics team claimed the bronze medal in the team competition. The 25-year-old entered the pommel horse finals amid high expectations, but faced tough competition from Kazakhstan’s Nariman Kurbanov, who posted a score of 15.433, surpassing the highest qualifying score.
Both Nedoroscik and Ireland’s Rhys McClenaghan had tied for the best qualifying score of 15.200, while two-time Olympic champion Max Whitlock of Great Britain struggled with his routine, also scoring 15.200.
The stakes grew higher when McClenaghan delivered an impressive routine, earning 15.533 and taking the lead just before Nedoroscik’s turn. Remaining composed, Nedoroscik approached the apparatus as the last competitor from the U.S. men’s team, which relied on him for a chance at another medal.
Despite the pressure, Nedoroscik performed admirably, scoring 15.300 and securing a bronze medal, marking his second medal at the Paris Games.
Final scores for the pommel horse event were as follows:
1. Rhys McClenaghan (Ireland) – 15.533
2. Nariman Kurbanov (Kazakhstan) – 15.433
3. Stephen Nedoroscik (USA) – 15.300
4. Max Whitlock (Great Britain) – 15.200
5. Oleg Verniaiev (Ukraine) – 14.966
6. Takaaki Sugino (Japan) – 14.933
7. Woong Hur (South Korea) – 14.300
8. Loran de Munck (Netherlands) – 13.733
Nedoroscik, often referred to as “The Pommel Horse Guy,” gained popularity during the Olympics, contributing to the U.S. team’s first medal in 16 years. Known for his unique look, he competes wearing goggles specifically designed for gymnastics, earning the nickname “Clark Kent of pommel horse.” His performances not only showcased his skill but also helped build momentum for the U.S. men’s gymnastics program as they look forward to the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.