A Gold Medal Cheerleader
Hoda Kotb (Getty Images)
Hoda Kotb is the face of the TODAY Show and is known for her calming presence, joyous smile, and contagious optimism. She is a dotting mother to Haley and Hope and extends her motherly love, compassion, and support to anyone she can. This week, one group of women stole her heart: the United States women’s gymnastics team.
Haley and Hope cheering on at home! (@hodakotb / Instagram)
Simone, Jordan, Suni, Jade, and Hezly are truly the Golden Girls. Their strength, resilience, and talent are incomparable to most athletes. The added piece to their recipe for success is fan support, specifically from Hoda. Hoda met with the ladies of Team USA after the Olympic Trials to discuss this year's comparison to Tokyo, celebrate their success, and welcome Hezly to the family. When the five women entered the room, Hoda greeted each one with her radiant smile, dancing, and a big hug. In this video, Simone tells Hezly, "Hezly if you need anything, this is Hoda, our gymnastics Olympic mother." Hoda was even surprised with her own leotard before the games began.
Hoda & the Golden Girls (@todayshow / Instagram)
That statement's accuracy has been proven as Hoda has attended multiple gymnastics events in Paris. After the team completed their preliminary rounds in Paris, Hoda waited by the exit to congratulate and celebrate the women. The love is clearly mutual, as each girl smiled wider when they saw Hoda. Like any parent, Hoda feels the nerves while watching the women soar through their different events. On multiple occasions, Hoda was seen shifting in her seat, fist-pumping after a completed trick, and even holding her seat neighbor’s arm. After each routine, Hoda was the first to her feet and undoubtedly, one of the loudest fans in the room.
Hoda cheering on Suni with Suni's sisters (@hodakotb / Instagram)
After winning gold in the team all-around competition, Suni and Jordan stopped by the TODAY Show to discuss their new hardware with Hoda and co-host, Savannah Guthrie. Both gymnasts spoke about how they could hear both Hoda and Savannah cheering, especially Hoda’s loud whistle. Hoda also interviewed Suni immediately after winning gold, and Suni shared that she was looking for Hoda when the results were revealed. She made a special post for Jade and Hezley showing more hugs and pride.
Hoda & Stephen's iconic swap (@hodakotb / Instagram)
Hoda is also a proud supporter of the men’s gymnastics team. Stephen Nedoroscik, the Clark Kent of gymnastics, swapped his glasses with Hoda, making an iconic picture. In a now-viral video, Hoda was seen hugging Stephen and his teammates, expressing how proud she is of each of them.
Hoda’s love for the entire Team USA can easily be felt through the screen. It is clear that as long as Hoda is here, there is someone who will cheer on your biggest triumphs and catch you through your biggest falls. While gymnastics is wrapping up in Paris, Hoda will continue her whistles, singing, dancing, clapping, happy crying, and so much more for Team USA.