Published: 09:34, August 8, 2024
Olympics: Chinese pair storm to men's springboard final
By Xinhua
Wang Zongyuan of China competes during the men's 3m springboard semifinal of diving at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Saint-Denis, France, Aug 7, 2024. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

PARIS - Chinese divers Wang Zongyuan and Xie Siyi cruised into the men's 3m springboard final at the Paris Olympic Games here on Wednesday by taking the top two positions in semifinal.

Wang, 22, leading the semifinal all through since the first dive, took a score of 537.85 points.

But the runner-up in this event at the Tokyo Games three years ago was not satisfied with his performance.

"I felt a little bit tired and stressed," said Wang who had defended his synchronized event Olympic title with a new partner Long Daoyi last Friday.

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"I will give my absolute best to improve for tomorrow's final," he added.

Xie Siyi of China competes during the men's 3m springboard semifinal of diving at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Saint-Denis, France, Aug 7, 2024. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

Reigning champion Xie followed behind in 505.85 points while British Jack Laugher finished third in 467.05.

Laugher, 29, took the gold of the synchronized event at the Rio Olympic Games and also grabbed a bronze in Paris with teammate Anthony Harding.

"I'd love it to be me," said Laugher talking about if anyone could challenge the dominant Chinese divers.

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"I try and do my best every time, and I am in admiration of how good they are. But I know that if I turn up, and I do everything as good as I can, then I've got a shot at trying to beat them."