Viral Video: Olympics Pole Vaulter Alysha Newman Explains Viral 'Twerking' Celebration

Canadian pole vaulter Alysha Newman twerks after winning the bronze medal in the Women’s pole vault on Aug. 7, 2024.Photo byCastel Franck/ABACA/Shutterstock

Disclaimer: This article was written with the help of A.I. software.

Introduction

Alysha Newman, the Canadian pole vaulter and social media personality, recently captured global attention not just for her athletic prowess, but for her unconventional victory celebration at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Newman, who secured a bronze medal in the women's pole vault event, sparked a wave of online debate after she marked her win by twerking in front of a cheering crowd.

Newman saw her adult content profile skyrocket in viewership following her viral celebration.Photo byAlysha Newman/Instagram

A Harmless Prank

Newman, who cleared 4.85 meters to clinch third place, revealed that her celebration was intended as a playful prank on her coaches. “I’m always injured, and I’m always getting back on the horse, so I said I’m gonna go and scare my coaches because I want them to lighten up,” Newman shared with CBC Sports. The 30-year-old athlete explained that her coaches had been instrumental in her journey to becoming an Olympic medalist, and she wanted to inject some humor into the intense atmosphere.

Many critics have questioned whether she was trying to promote her OnlyFans account or just celebrating with a silly dance.Photo byAlysha Newman/Instagram

A Viral Moment

The pole vaulter’s celebration, where she shook her backside towards the camera with a broad smile, quickly went viral, garnering both praise and criticism. Critics speculated whether Newman was using the moment to promote her OnlyFans account, a platform where she shares adult content. Addressing the speculation, Newman told German publication BILD, “It just happened very fluid... I didn’t think I’m gonna twerk, but just from grabbing that to getting to the knee with a twerk it all just worked out in one.”

Newman’s bronze medal was the first ever won by a Canadian female pole vaulter at the Olympics.Photo byGetty Images

Inspired by a TikTok Trend?

Some observers linked Newman’s celebration to a popular TikTok trend where athletes pretend to be injured before breaking into dance. Although Newman acknowledged the trend, she denied any direct inspiration from it, stating that she might have seen it in passing.

Newman now has her sights set on the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles and is interested in the silver or a gold medal.Photo byREUTERS

Looking Ahead

Despite the mixed reactions to her celebration, Newman remains focused on her athletic career. With her eyes set on the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, she is determined to reach even greater heights, aiming for a silver or gold medal.

Photo byREUTERS

Conclusion

Newman’s twerking celebration may have divided opinions, but it underscored her resilience and sense of humor. The bronze medal was a historic achievement, marking the first time a Canadian female pole vaulter had reached the Olympic podium. As Newman looks forward to the next Olympic cycle, her journey serves as a reminder that sometimes, a little levity can go a long way in high-pressure environments.

Source: nypost