Canadians Rylan Wiens and Nathan Zsombor-Murray Win Olympic Bronze in 10m Synchro Diving
In a historic achievement at the Paris Olympics, Canadian divers Rylan Wiens and Nathan Zsombor-Murray have secured a bronze medal in the men’s 10-metre synchronized platform diving event. This marks the first time Canada has won an Olympic medal in this discipline and the first Canadian men’s diving medal since Alexandre Despatie’s silver in the 3m springboard at the Beijing Olympics 16 years ago.
Stellar Performance Secures Spot on the Podium
Wiens and Zsombor-Murray delivered a series of impressive dives, scoring a total of 422.13 points. They finished behind the dominant Chinese team, who scored 490.35 points, and the British pair, who earned 463.44 points. The Canadian duo’s final dive, a complex back 2 1/2 somersaults with 1 1/2 twists in the pike position, scored them 79.68 points, cementing their place on the podium.
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Success
The journey to the bronze was not without its challenges. Both divers experienced difficulties with some of their dives, but their overall consistency kept them ahead of the Mexican team, who finished fourth. The highlight of their performance was their fourth-round dive, which earned them their highest score of 83.25 points for a 4 1/2 somersaults in the tuck position, showcasing their technical prowess and synchronicity.
Emotional Victory for the Canadian Duo
Reflecting on their victory, Zsombor-Murray expressed his disbelief and excitement, stating, “It still doesn’t seem real. After 16 years of non-stop hard work, it’s overwhelming.” Wiens, visibly moved, added, “I don’t tear up very often, but I started to well up before we stepped on the podium. Looking up to my parents in the stands and my very first coach behind me, being able to share this moment with all my family who made it here is truly a moment I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”
A Testament to Teamwork and Determination
Wiens and Zsombor-Murray’s partnership began in 2021 after Zsombor-Murray’s previous partner, Vincent Riendeau, suffered an injury. The duo quickly gelled, earning world bronze in 2022 and winning the FINA Diving Grand Prix in Calgary. Their synergy and mutual support have been pivotal to their success. As Zsombor-Murray noted, “Synchronized diving comes easily to us. We’re both strong as individual competitors, so when we dive together, everything flows well.”
Support from Home
The bronze medalists emphasized the importance of support from their families, friends, and communities. “Friends and family at home, I love you guys. You’re the best cheering squad I could ask for,” said Zsombor-Murray. Wiens echoed this sentiment, thanking everyone who supported him, “The people around my neighborhood, there were signs up all over the place. Thank you everyone for supporting me. It’s that extra little bit of confidence and push that sometimes I need to get back on the horse and work hard.”
Looking Ahead
With their Olympic success, Wiens and Zsombor-Murray have set a high bar for future Canadian divers. Their achievement not only brings pride to their nation but also inspires the next generation of athletes to pursue their dreams with dedication and teamwork.