Richard, Malone, Paul Juda, Asher Hong, and Stephen Nedoroscik are heading to Paris.
The men’s U.S. Olympic gymnastics team has set its sights on a historic achievement: becoming the first American squad to secure an Olympic medal since 2008.
Announced following the U.S. Olympic gymnastics trials in Minneapolis, the team comprises Frederick Richard, Brody Malone, Paul Juda, Asher Hong, and Stephen Nedoroscik, all destined for Paris.
Named as alternates are Shane Wiskus and Khoi Young, who narrowly missed the final team cut but are recognized as Olympians by the U.S. Olympic Committee. Brett McClure, Olympic medalist and the men’s team’s high performance director, has overseen a significant transformation of the U.S. men’s gymnastics program since the Tokyo Olympics. He emphasized the team’s objective to “control their own destiny” and “make a splash in Paris.”
McClure acknowledged the challenges in selecting an Olympic team, highlighting the complexities involved. “There are so many things that could factor in,” he noted. “Intangibles, leadership, and qualities that are difficult to quantify.”
Richard, reigning world all-around bronze medalist, dominated the trials, leading the all-around standings after both competition nights. The 20-year-old Massachusetts native, also a social media star on TikTok, secured his Olympic berth with a commanding performance, finishing first in the all-around and excelling in three of the six events.
Brody Malone, U.S. national all-around champion, initially led the trials but finished narrowly behind Richard. Despite early challenges on the high bar, Malone displayed resilience throughout the competition, earning his second Olympic team spot. His path to Paris was nearly derailed by a serious knee injury the previous season.
Following the team announcement, Malone expressed the team’s determination to end the U.S. men’s Olympic medal drought. “We have a chance to win a medal, and that’s what we’re going to do,” he affirmed. Statistical analysis of their performance over the past year suggests the team is well-positioned to contend for the podium in Paris, particularly with Russian athletes barred from competition due to geopolitical tensions.
Stephen Nedoroscik secured his spot with a stellar performance on the pommel horse, a routine that solidified his position on the Olympic team. As a world champion on this apparatus, Nedoroscik is poised to compete for a medal in Paris, despite specializing in a single event.
Asher Hong, recognized for his standout performances at Stanford University, will make his Olympic debut, showcasing strong performances on the still rings and vault. Likewise, Paul Juda will experience his first Olympics in Paris, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Shane Wiskus, a Minnesota native, captivated the local crowd with his performance, exceeding expectations by finishing third in the all-around and first on the floor exercise. Despite his strong showing, Wiskus will assume the role of alternate after representing the U.S. in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
The men’s U.S. Olympic gymnastics team’s composition reflects a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, united in their pursuit of Olympic glory and eager to showcase their skills on the global stage in Paris.
