McKayla Maroney became arguably the biggest gymnastics star in the world during the 2012 Olympics.
Not only was she one of the core members of the triumphant “Fierce Five” group, but Maroney also brought home a gold medal in the team competition and silver medal in the individual vault competition.
In addition to stealing the show on the mats at those Olympics, Maroney also established herself as one of the most prominent sports personalities within the larger cultural zeitgeist.
Now, more than a decade later, she continues to reign supreme with a massive following across her various social media channels.
This past week Maroney took to one of her account to share a memorable poolside video. It immediately caused something of a stir.
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“Fashionista,” one fan replied.
“I hope you having a great 2023,” a second added.
“Red is your color,” a third agreed.
Maroney has been something of a permanent fixture in the news cycle over the past year. Whether she is doing something as innocent as showing off her wild dress, celebrating her birthday like only she can or bringing in Valentine’s Day in truly memorable fashion – she always seems to be in the headlines.
There is a fair case to be made that if not for Maroney paving the way, many of today’s young gymnastics stars would not be able to capitalize on their brands in the way they do.
Case in point: LSU standout Olivia Dunne.
Dunne obviously has a certain knack for social media success. This is evident with the sort of craziness that her shower selfie recently caused. And obviously it has bled through to her sister emerging as a social media sensation in her own right.
Brittany has done it again.https://t.co/gJjC0mZ9zy
— Game 7 (@game7__) January 26, 2023
But none of that would have happened had Maroney not blazed the path ten years earlier.
It is unfortunate that Maroney wasn’t able to capitalize on her fame financially in the way gymnasts are able to nowadays, but she is still doing quite well for herself.
By any real measure, Maroney had a fantastic 2022. What will 2023 have in store for the former Olympic hero? Time will tell.
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A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
