Divers Yasmin Harper and Scarlett Mew Jensen secured Team GB’s first medal of the Paris 2024 Olympics with a dramatic bronze in the women’s synchronized 3m springboard. Their achievement marked the first Olympic diving medal for Britain since 2004 and the first female diving medal in 64 years.
The pair, who were in sixth place with two dives remaining, moved up to fourth before their final dive. A strong final performance elevated them to third, thanks to a crucial mistake by the Australian diving team. The crowd at the Paris Aquatics Centre gasped as Australia’s final dive faltered, allowing Harper and Mew Jensen to clinch the bronze.
Mew Jensen, competing in her second Olympics, had been dealing with a partial back fracture sustained just three months prior, limiting her preparation time. Her emotional response turned to tears of joy after the Australian team’s error. “A month ago I didn’t think I would be here,” Mew Jensen, 22, said, expressing her disbelief and happiness.
Harper, 24, said, “It is all we have worked towards. To come away with the medal feels really, really amazing.” The gold medal went to China’s Chang Yani and Chen Yiwen, continuing their dominance in the event, while America’s Sarah Bacon and Kassidy Cook took silver.
The British duo had faced challenges leading up to the Games, with Mew Jensen’s injury affecting their preparation. Despite slipping in the standings after minor errors, their strong final dives ensured they secured a place on the podium.
The diving events continue with Tom Daley and Noah Williams competing in the 10m synchronized event, and Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix, Lois Toulson, Jack Laugher, and Anthony Harding expected to be in contention for further medals.
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