- Australian Natalya Diehm marked her bronze medal victory in style
- Claimed third place in the BMX finals at La Concorde skate park in Paris
- First Australian woman to earn a medal in any significant BMX competition
Australian BMX athlete Natalya Diehm has quickly become a folk hero after chugging a beer and indulging in McDonald’s chicken nuggets after securing a bronze medal in Paris.
At just 26, Diehm has faced five knee reconstructions and a series of setbacks on her BMX journey, including dislocated shoulders and fractured wrists and elbows.
In a heartwarming tale coming out of the Games, her determination led to her making history as the first Australian woman to win a BMX freestyle medal at a major competition.
When reporters presented her with a beer, the Queensland native celebrated in style—especially since fans at Olympic venues were not allowed to consume alcohol.
‘I’m not really a beer drinker, but I’ll make an exception,’ she exclaimed amidst cheers from the press.
‘I thought about doing a shoey, but that might be a bit much.’
Diehm also shared her frustrations concerning the limited food options available in the Olympic village, which shifted heavily towards vegetarian meals for participants.
‘I can’t go back to eating that [vegan food]. I’m really happy with my McDonald’s,’ she admitted.
Australian BMX star Natalya Diehm quickly became a folk hero after chugging a beer and enjoying some chicken nuggets after winning her bronze medal in Paris
Diehm made history as the first Australian woman to win a BMX freestyle medal at a major competition
Diehm’s candid remarks come as instances of alcohol have been limited at several Olympic venues in Paris, as organizers strive for a family-oriented atmosphere.
Numerous ‘dry’ venues have left many fans puzzled, prompting them to enjoy drinks at bars throughout the city before and after events.
Regarding her stellar performance at the La Concorde skate park, Diehm expressed her excitement about making history.
‘Australia has never medaled at a World Cup event before,’ she noted.
‘So doing this on the biggest global stage is historic. I’ve made history. It’s incredible.’
‘I consider this bronze medal to be like rose gold. It’s beautiful and, honestly, I think it’s even better than gold.’
Gold was taken by China’s Yawen Deng (92.60), with American Perris Benegas (90.70) grabbing silver.
Tokyo gold medalist and fellow Aussie Logan Martin put aside his personal disappointment in not securing consecutive titles to celebrate Diehm’s achievement.
‘What she has done is incredible,’ he commented.
‘She aimed to reach a podium finish — and she’s achieved the biggest one possible. I’m incredibly proud of her.’
