Frederick Richard, a 21-year-old gymnast from the University of Michigan, deliberately accepted a 0.3 point deduction at the U.S. Gymnastics Championships to wear stylish gym shorts with leggings, passionately advocating for a uniform change to make the sport more accessible and appealing to young boys, stating, “It’s 1,000% worth it” as he aims to inspire the next generation.

In a groundbreaking moment that has captured the attention of the gymnastics community, Frederick Richard, a 21-year-old gymnast from the University of Michigan, made a daring choice at the U.S. Gymnastics Championships held in New Orleans on August 9, 2025.

Richard deliberately accepted a 0.3 point deduction in order to wear gym shorts paired with compression leggings instead of the traditional stirrups typically required for male gymnasts.

This bold fashion statement has sparked conversations about the need for change in the sport’s uniform regulations.

Richard’s decision to prioritize style over scoring reflects his desire to make gymnastics more appealing and accessible to younger athletes.

“It’s 1,000% worth it,” he stated after the competition, emphasizing that his choice was not just about personal preference but about inspiring the next generation of gymnasts.

“If you look at these kids in the crowd, I’m thinking about them and I’m thinking about when I was younger,” he added, highlighting his commitment to fostering a more inclusive environment in the sport.

During the championships, Richard’s innovative uniform choice nearly cost him a podium finish; he placed second by a mere 0.305 points. Despite this close call, he remains steadfast in his mission to challenge the outdated norms of gymnastics attire.

“I’ve always taken issue with the pants required by rule,” Richard explained, revealing that he felt embarrassed wearing the traditional stirrups outside the gym. “If I left the gym to go to the gas station, I didn’t want anybody to see me in my pommel horse pants,” he confessed.

This sentiment resonates with many young athletes who may feel self-conscious about their uniforms, and Richard hopes to change that perception.

Richard collaborated with the apparel company Turn to design his alternative uniform, aiming to create a look that feels “cool” and modern.

He believes that by making gymnastics attire more fashionable, it could encourage more boys to participate in the sport and help retain their interest as they grow older.

“Making the uniform more cool could possibly help keep kids in the sport,” he stated, reflecting on the importance of relatability in attracting young talent.

The U.S. Gymnastics Championships is a prestigious event that showcases the top talents in the sport, and Richard’s choice has sparked a broader discussion about the need for uniform reform.

Many in the gymnastics community are rallying behind him, recognizing that a change in attire could open doors for a more diverse and inclusive range of participants.

Richard’s actions have not only drawn attention to his personal style but also to the potential for a cultural shift within gymnastics.

As Richard continues to compete at a high level, he remains committed to his cause, stating that he will persist in taking the uniform deduction until significant changes are made.

His determination to lead this movement has garnered support from fellow gymnasts and fans alike, who appreciate his willingness to take risks for the greater good of the sport.

In a world where appearance can heavily influence participation in sports, Richard’s initiative serves as a reminder that uniforms should not be a barrier but rather a source of pride and identity.

His efforts to redefine what it means to be a male gymnast are not just about aesthetics; they represent a larger conversation about inclusivity, acceptance, and the evolution of athletic culture.

As Frederick Richard continues to push boundaries both on and off the mat, the gymnastics community watches closely, eager to see how his bold stance will influence the future of men’s gymnastics.

Will his efforts lead to a new era of stylish and accessible uniforms? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: Richard is determined to make a lasting impact in the sport he loves.