Paris 2024: Olympic redemption a ‘dream come true’ for Rhys McClenaghan

Newtownards gymnast Rhys McClenaghan says Olympic gold is a “dream come true” after his disappointment in Tokyo.

Three years ago, the 25-year-old was among the favourites for a medal but slipped from the pommel horse and ultimately finished seventh in what was his Olympic debut.

At his second Games in Paris, the Team Ireland gymnast produced a sensational routine, taking gold with a personal best score of 15.533 ahead of Kazakhstan’s Nariman Kurbanov and the USA’s Stephen Nedoroscik.

“I knew it was possible,” he told BBC Sport of topping the podium.

“I knew it was possible back in Tokyo as well but it didn’t happen. This was the comeback I needed and it happened.

“A dream come true. I can’t believe I’ve done it on this day.”

McClenaghan’s is the sixth medal by an athlete from Northern Ireland in Paris and he joins rower Hannah Scott and swimmers Daniel Wiffen and Jack McMillan in claiming gold.

Prior to these Games, athletes from Northern Ireland had won three gold medals in Olympic history.

Even after reaching the pinnacle of his sport, McClenaghan added his natural inclination was to think of what he could have done better.

“There’s always room for improvement,” he said.

“I want to go back into the gym right now and work on the improvements but my coach won’t let me, probably.

“That’s okay. I think he’s right in this situation, we need to celebrate our Olympic title.”