Diving: China’s Wang and Long Retain Men’s Synchronised 3-Metre Springboard Title at Paris Olympics

On Friday, at the Paris Olympics, China’s Wang Zongyuan and Long Daoyi successfully defended their men’s synchronized 3-meter springboard title. This victory marked China’s fourth gold medal in diving and kept alive their goal of winning all eight diving golds on offer at the Games.

A Thrilling Competition

Describing the competition as “passionate, thrilling and difficult,” Wang acknowledged the challenges they faced. Despite making some mistakes, they regained their composure and delivered near-perfect performances in their final routine, securing the gold with a score of 446.10 points.

Mexico’s Silver Lining

Mexico’s Juan Celaya and Osmar Olvera put up a strong fight, taking the lead in the fourth round. However, they ultimately fell short of upsetting the Chinese duo, finishing with a silver medal just 2.07 points behind. This marks Mexico’s first medal in an Olympic men’s synchronized diving event since 2012.

Bronze for Britain

Anthony Harding and Jack Laugher of Britain claimed the bronze medal. Harding made his Olympic debut, while Laugher won gold in the 3-meter event at the 2016 Rio Games.

Wang and Long’s Olympic Journey

Wang, 22, won gold in the 3-meter synchronized event in Tokyo with Xie Siyi. Since 2022, he has dominated individual 3-meter springboard events. Long, 21, has won world titles in the synchronized event since teaming up with Wang in 2023.

Despite a few errors in his Olympic debut, Long credited Wang with helping him regain his composure. Together, they showcased their resilience and determination, proving that they are a force to be reckoned with in the sport of diving.

Upcoming Challenges

Wang and Olvera are set to compete again in the men’s individual 3-meter springboard event. Olvera aims to challenge Wang, having finished second to him in four world series events this year.