Rhys McClenaghan to push for more in pommel horse final after topping qualifying

Irish gymnast Rhys McClenaghan hinted at more surprises in store after qualifying for the Olympic pommel horse final at the top of a 65-strong field in Paris.

The Antrim-born specialist on the apparatus, who celebrated his 25th birthday in the athlete’s village on July 21st, needed to finish in the top eight for the chance to fight for a medal in a week’s time.

He achieved that and then some in Saturday’s final session at the Bercy Arena, posting a score of 15.200 to draw him level on points with American Stephen Nedoroscik but holding on tenth of a point’s advantage over the day’s runner-up on tie-breaking execution.

“I’m at the top of the mountain and now I’m just enjoying the view,” said McClenaghan, who with pommel horse gold in 2022 became the first artistic gymnast representing Ireland to win a world championship title, one he successfully defended the following year.

Just Rhys nailing his routine ✨

A score of 15.200 with a quality execution, ranked number one after qualification