The latest season of The Bachelorette has made history with Jenn Tran, the show’s first Asian-American lead. But she’s not the only one making waves. Meet Thomas Nguyen, the 31-year-old retired professional swimmer and current retirement specialist who’s also the franchise’s first Asian-American contestant.

Read more: Jenn Tran Makes ‘Bachelor’ Franchise History as First Asian American Bachelorette

Nguyen, who immigrated to the U.S. with his family from Vietnam, quickly formed a deep connection with Tran over their shared heritage. 

In an emotional conversation, Nguyen revealed, “My mom dropped out of pharmaceutical school to take on another job to sponsor her whole family over from Vietnam. I’ve watched my parents fight for each other and I want a marriage like that.” Tran, visibly touched, shared that her parents made similar sacrifices, solidifying their instant bond. 

“Knowing what Jenn’s mom and dad went through so Jenn can be where she is now, I get this. This is me right to the core,” Nguyen reflected.

Read more: Jenn Tran Gets Real About the Lack of Asian Representation on ‘The Bachelorette’

In an interview with Glamour, Tran elaborated on this special connection, saying, “I think back to it a lot because it’s not every day that you get to bond with somebody on your immigrant parents and you get to connect with somebody on that level because not everybody can understand that. That was a really special conversation for me because he really understood where I was coming from, and my family means everything to me.”

But Nguyen isn’t just a romantic at heart. He’s also a former Olympic hopeful, though a torn rotator cuff dashed his dreams of competing in 2016. Despite this setback, Nguyen’s athletic background shines through. Producers have playfully incorporated swimming puns into the show, a move that seems to resonate with Tran, who has admitted to loving a good pun. Nguyen’s quick wit and playful nature have made him a fan favorite, with viewers rooting for him to go the distance.

In a refreshing change from the usual reality TV tropes, Nguyen’s introduction video accurately described him as an “Olympic hopeful.” This honesty, a rarity in a genre often known for exaggerating accomplishments, has further endeared him to fans. 

Swimming enthusiasts, who often see embellished athletic achievements on reality TV, have praised Nguyen’s authenticity. His lifetime best in the 200-meter backstroke was just shy of the Olympic qualifying time, making his description both real and relatable.

As the season unfolds, Nguyen has emerged as a potential frontrunner, captivating viewers with his genuine nature and shared experiences with Tran. He’s already made a splash, showcasing his intelligence, humor, and kind heart. 

When asked about the lack of Asian representation among her suitors, Tran expressed hope that both she and Nguyen could inspire others, stating, “I am hoping that me being here and Thomas N. being there, that the both of us can inspire other Asian men to realize that they can do this too if they want. They can be in this position as well. I’m hoping that it inspires them.”

Will he be the one to capture Tran’s heart in the end? Only time will tell.

For now, Nguyen continues to charm both Tran and viewers alike, proving that he’s more than just a pretty face or a former athlete – he’s a genuine contender in the game of love, and one to watch in this historic season of “The Bachelorette.” His journey is a testament to the power of shared experiences and the enduring appeal of a good pun. As one fan put it, “Thomas N. is the whole package – brains, brawn,and a heart of gold. He’s the kind of guy you root for.”