- Max Whitlock placed fourth in the pommel horse final at the Paris Olympics.
- The 31-year-old’s daughter, Willow, who is five, watched from the stands.
- Whitlock retires as a six-time Olympic medalist, including three gold medals.
Max Whitlock struggled to hold back tears during an emotional interview after his final gymnastics routine at the Olympic Games.
At 31, Whitlock aimed for his third consecutive Olympic gold on the pommel horse before retiring after the Paris Games.
However, the three-time Olympic champion faced heartbreak, finishing just off the podium in fourth place.
In a heartfelt interview with the BBC, Whitlock became emotional when discussing his daughter, Willow, who was watching from the stands at Bercy Arena.
He apologized before taking a moment to compose himself, finally stating, ‘It’s the proudest feeling.’
Max Whitlock became emotional in an interview with the BBC after his final-ever routine
Tears came to Whitlock’s eyes when he was asked about his five-year-old daughter Willow
Whitlock came fourth in the pommel horse, failing to retain the golds he won in 2016 and 2020
‘I’ve been doing this sport for 24 years, and I always wanted my children to watch me compete at a young age.’
Overwhelmed once more, Whitlock said: ‘Sorry – for god’s sake,’ as he looked up, teary-eyed.
Whitlock performed second in the final, scoring an impressive 15.200, appearing destined for a seventh Olympic medal.
However, Ireland’s Rhys McClenaghan scored a massive 15.533, with remarkable routines from Kazakhstan’s Nariman Kurbanov and USA gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik pushing Whitlock out of the podium finish.
Though clearly disappointed, Whitlock emphasized the importance of his journey in the sport.
‘This feels very raw right now,’ he reflected, ‘I would have liked a more favorable conclusion here in Paris.’
‘But I don’t want anyone to associate my feelings now with my overall career; I am incredibly proud to be standing here today.’
The 31-year-old was clearly disappointed when he realised he had not done enough for a medal
Whitlock (pictured at Tokyo 2020) retires from gymnastics as a three-time Olympic champion
With his illustrious career now concluded, Whitlock looks ahead to the next chapter of his life.
He remarked, ‘I am incredibly grateful to have been a gymnast. I feel so fortunate to have enjoyed the sport since I was seven until now at 31; it has been a long journey.’
‘One of the most rewarding aspects is inspiring young kids to get involved in gymnastics.
‘I frequently hear comments from parents bringing their kids into the sport because they saw me; that truly is an uplifting feeling.’
‘Now as I conclude my competitive journey, my love for gymnastics remains. I cherish every moment and aim to impact grassroots gymnastics positively; that’s my next goal.’
