Former Olympics gymnastics champion Shawn Johnson recently shared her delightful reaction to fellow American gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik, who gave a stellar dance performance on the pommel horse during the Dancing With The Stars finale. Nedoroscik took on the dancing challenge following an outstanding Paris Olympics campaign.
During his freestyle performance in the finale, the 26-year-old incorporated his signature gymnastics apparatus, the pommel, into the routine where he was joined on stage by his USA men's gymnastics teammates. The performance went viral and caught the attention of fans and fellow gymnasts alike. Among those who reacted was the four-time Olympic champion from the 2008 Beijing Games, who shared her adorable reaction to his performance on her Instagram handle, writing:
"Absolutely incredible. We love you @stephen_nedoroscik !!!"
Stephen Nedoroscik was the first contestant announced for season 33 of Dancing With The Stars, this year's cast. He was partnered with the World Dance Sport Championship third-place finisher, Rylee Arnold. The duo quickly became one of the most closely followed pairs on the show, and their impressive journey led them to the finale, which aired on Tuesday, November 26.
For the finale, the contestants were tasked with two sequences, which included the Redemption Dance Round followed by the Freestyle Dance Round. For the redemption round, the gymnast and his dance companion performed to "I'll Be There For You" by the Rembrandts and earned an impressive 29 points from the judges. During the freestyle round, the two danced their hearts out on "Viva La Vida" by Coldplay and achieved the first perfect score of 30 of the season.
"The perfect way to end this unforgettable journey" - Stephen Nedoroscik pens a heartfelt note after bid farewell to his DWTS campaign
Following the DWTS finale Stephen Nedoroscik shared a heartfelt post on his Instagram, that featured a picture with Rylee Arnold on a dimly lit stage. Reflecting on his journey he expressed his emotions about just being a pommel horse athlete to a dancer. The gymnast also conveyed his deep gratitude to Arnold acknowledging her support and guidnce throughout the journey. He wrote:
"The perfect way to end this unforgettable journey. I’m a Pommel Horse specialist. I had never danced, performed with emotion, or had to be delicate. Rylee, I feel so lucky to have had you by my side. Your positivity, kindness, and determination made every second of this experience worthwhile."
"Looking back on our first rehearsals, when I was timid, to now ending the show with a perfect score, it is unbelievable what you have taught me. Thank you for not only being the best dance partner, but also an indispensable friend. Cheers to all the kick ball pains, quahs, “just kidding”s, car rides, and burps," he added.
Rylee Arnold responded in the comments, sharing her emotions and acknowledging the special bond they had formed. She also thanked Stephen Nedoroscik for being an inspiration.