PARIS — Laurie Hernandez, the two-time Olympic gymnastics medalist, has transitioned from athlete to commentator, and her presence is making waves at the Paris Olympics. With a laugh, she acknowledges the whirlwind of thoughts in her head, saying, “There’s a lot going on in here.”
At just 24 years old, Hernandez has already carved out a niche for herself in the broadcasting world. Her commentary resonates with both television audiences and the online community, showcasing her unique perspective as a former gymnast.
Eight years ago, Hernandez was the youngest member of the “Final Five” team, led by Simone Biles, that clinched gold in Rio de Janeiro. She also earned a silver medal on the balance beam, capturing the hearts of fans with her infectious energy.
Now, in Paris, her role has shifted, but her passion for gymnastics remains evident. As she dons her headset next to broadcast partner Rich Lerner, the nerves she feels are different from those she experienced as a competitor.
When she speaks, her love for the sport shines through. During the women’s all-around finals, the camera caught actor Seth Rogen in the audience, prompting Hernandez to exclaim, “Of all the people you could cut to? Like, that’s so cool. But, like, I just would not expect, like, Seth Rogen to go to gymnastics.”
This moment exemplifies what some are calling the “Hernandez effect.” She brings a blend of empathy, education, and humor to her commentary, drawing from her decade-long experience in a sport that can be both rewarding and demanding.
Hernandez reflects on the unique challenges of gymnastics, saying, “I don’t know many sports, you know, who are like, ‘Oh, I fear for my life every time I turn.’” This understanding shapes her approach to commentary.
She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging mistakes without dwelling on them. In gymnastics, perfection is an unrealistic expectation, and she believes it’s crucial to explain the nuances of the sport to viewers who may only tune in every four years.
Wobbles and falls are part of the game, just like leotards and chalk. Hernandez aims to help audiences understand how these moments occur, making the sport more accessible to casual viewers.
When routines are performed flawlessly, Hernandez highlights the difference between what viewers see and what judges evaluate. She introduces the concept of “ghost deductions,” explaining, “To the naked eye, this looks like the most marvelous thing, and it is. But there are deductions that you cannot see at home that I can see or the judges can see.”
In this new role, Hernandez is also subject to scrutiny. As a member of Gen Z, she finds it challenging to disconnect from social media. While she wishes she could ignore the opinions of critics, she often engages with them, asking to be left out of their posts for her own peace of mind.
Her commentary is often spontaneous, influenced by references from platforms like TikTok. She embraces this authenticity, viewing it as a way to connect with viewers. When nerves arise, she imagines herself in a relaxed setting, saying, “Everyone’s got a glass of whatever you want, and we all just happen to be like, besties hanging out.”
Hernandez’s journey from Olympic athlete to commentator is a testament to her adaptability and love for gymnastics. As fans tune in to the Paris Olympics, they are discovering a new star in Hernandez, who continues to shine brightly even without competing.
Source: AP
