Fans Rally Behind US Star Fred Richard as $100K Aim Signals Gymnastics’ Bright Future

“I’m making this change…” Those four words, posted by Fred Richard on February 12, weren’t just about gymnastics—they were a declaration. A shift in mindset. A stand against a 130-year-old tradition. That day, the 21-year-old wasn’t just talking about pushing his limits on the mat. He was talking about his decision to challenge the rigid dress code in men’s gymnastics. Instead of the traditional singlet, Fred walked onto the floor in pommel horse pants, a pair of shorts, and a loose tank top. It was bold. It was different. And yes, it was controversial.

Backlash? Of course. At the 2025 Winter Cup—his first meet since the Paris Olympics—Fred was docked points for breaking dress code. He knew it would cost him his title defense, but he was prepared to take the hit. For him, the cause was worth more than the crown. “History was made,” he posted afterward. “Thanks for all the support.” But the American didn’t stop there.

Fast forward to May 2: the 21-year-old gymnast posted a powerful clip to Instagram with the caption, “Fighting for something even greater.. #gymnastics #emotional #flip #record.” The video? Fred flipping—again and again—on a mat inside a room surrounded by officials and staff. The counter ticked: 960… 980… 1,000… as he chased a world record for the most consecutive backflips. Why? Not for glory. Not even for a medal. Fred was doing it to raise $100,000 to buy gymnastics equipment for children in Africa. The current record, held by Austrian parkour athlete Nico Scheicher, stood at 1,001. But Fred set his own target: 1,009—a nod, perhaps, to pushing beyond limits on a day that already meant so much.

Because on May 2, Fred Richard also became an uncle. Across social media, fans were moved, not just by the physical feat, but by the reason behind it. One comment summed it up perfectly: “Congrats on being an uncle! Your nephew/niece is going to know awesome things happened the day he or she was born!” Yes. Awesome. That same day, the gymnast elevated what he had been doing for the past several months to an entirely new level.

Over the past few months, Fred Richard has used his platform not just to showcase his own gravity-defying talent but to shine a spotlight on a group of athletes whose determination defies all odds. Through a powerful series of social media posts, Richard introduced the world to the young gymnasts of Clon Circus Uganda—a grassroots foundation “dedicated to supporting street kids and orphans in finding purpose and a brighter future.” But it wasn’t just about showing what these kids could do. It was about showing what they’re up against.

In one post, Richard demonstrated his own skills in a fully equipped U.S. gym—cushioned mats, spring-loaded floors, and pristine apparatus. Then came the stark contrast: video clips of Clon Circus athletes flipping barefoot on dirt, tumbling on uneven ground, and landing dangerous stunts without even the basic safety gear. The message? Loud and clear. Talent isn’t limited by geography, but opportunity often is. Fred is now determined to bring that opportunity to Africa, and the gymnastics fans are now with him. 

Fred Richard received so many wishes on the historic day 

“Congrats on being an uncle!!! You’ve got this!” One simple comment under Fred Richard’s Instagram post captured the heart of the moment—a moment marked by not one, but two extraordinary milestones: the birth of his niece or nephew and his attempt to break a world record in backflips for a cause close to his heart.

Fred didn’t respond, but he didn’t need to. The celebration was already in motion, and his fans felt it just as deeply. Another follower summed it all up perfectly: “Congratulations! I am an aunt and being able to spoil my niece and nephew is wonderful so I know that baby has the best uncle in the world! And I can’t wait to see you crush this goal!” The love didn’t stop there.

Donations started coming in, spurred by Fred’s selfless act. At the time of writing this, his GoFundMe page says that he has raised $34,870 USD. One fan shared, “Congratulations and well done for all the good you’re putting into the world! Just donated 🙌 you got this!” 

Others were inspired by more than just the cause—they were moved by the pure dedication on display. “My knees are jealous and my everything else is super happy for you 🔥🔥🔥.” One comment read, capturing the mix of awe, humor, and admiration Fred often stirs in people. Ultimately, it wasn’t just a record attempt. It was a moment of legacy, personal and global. A celebration of life, of purpose, and of using one’s platform to lift others higher.