McKayla Maroney is widely regarded as one of the biggest gymnastics stars of the past decade.
Roughly 10 years ago, Maroney etched her name in the history books at the 2012 London Olympics as a member of the infamous “Fierce Five” U.S. Gymnastics crew.
While at that event, Maroney accomplished a pair of difficult feats – neither easier than the other. First, she claimed a gold medal in the team event and a silver in the vault. Beyond the sporting success, though, she also firmly established herself as an international superstar.
That fame would last her beyond her gymnastics career and turn her into one of the biggest influencers in the country today.
These days Maroney boasts more than 1.4 million followers on Instagram and routinely goes viral for otherwise standard posts.
On Friday, a series of Maroney’s poolside photos set the internet ablaze:
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This isn’t an isolated incident.
Be it for her racy bikini videos, spicy Valentine’s day post or the provocative outfit choices she puts out, it genuinely feels like folks can’t get enough of Maroney.
And that’s to say nothing of just her general Instagram posts:
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A lot of people have tried to replicate Maroney’s success. Her ex- gymnastics teammate, Aly Raisman, attempted to do something similar.
But it’s easier said than done.
— Game 7 (@game7__) August 12, 2022
Maroney has built up a massive, organic fan base just by being herself. That is not easily replicated or duplicated.
What will Maroney ultimately go viral for next?
Time will tell.
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A longtime sports reporter, Carlos Garcia has written about some of the biggest and most notable athletic events of the last 5 years. He has been credentialed to cover MLS, NBA and MLB games all over the United States. His work has been published on Fox Sports, Bleacher Report, AOL and the Washington Post.
