As siblings grow up together, there’s the inevitable arguments and even rivalries that come with getting older. For many people, however, they get past those childhood spats and become loving, supportive forces in each others’ lives. Marcus Hernandez has long been a huge cheerleader for his younger sister Laurie Hernandez—and now he’s got even more of a reason to celebrate. His Olympian sibling is just 16 years old and part of the iconic USA gymnastic team known as the Final Five. She’s the first US-born Latina to make the squad, and she recently earned a gold medal with her cohorts in the Women’s team all-around.
After winning the gold, Laurie did what many people would do—she sent a selfie with her medal to her brother. Marcus wasn’t there to witness the accomplishment, but that doesn’t mean that he didn’t shout from the rooftops about how proud he was of her.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Marcus reflects on Laurie’s incredible spirit. “It’s blowing my mind how the same little girl I used to see doing flips on my bed at age 6 now has a gold medal,” he wrote. “I have seen you deal with so much adversity with the sport over the last several years and to finally see your hard work culminate makes it all worth it.” Continuing, he says he can’t wait to see her complete—and “kill it”—in the final balance beam competition.
Throughout the years, Marcus has posted many pictures with his little sister to show that he was, still is, and will continue to be one of her biggest fans.
Above photo source: Marcus Hernandez
Here’s Laurie in her element:
Photo source: Laurie Hernandez
Laurie and Marcus have long been close:
Photo source: Marcus Hernandez
Photo source: Marcus Hernandez
Photo source: Marcus Hernandez
Photo source: Marcus Hernandez
Marcus Hernandez: Instagram
Laurie Hernadez: Instagram
via [Buzzfeed, A Plus]