Reuben Ward makes history for Scotland with stunning gold medal in gymnastics

The 21-year-old produced a standout performance to become the first Scotsman to ever win the coveted all-around title.

Ward led for the majority of the event and held off Canada’s Felix Dolci by just 0.2 points at a raucous Emirates Arena with a superb high bar routine.

His win marked Scotland’s third gold of the Games, following Duncan Scott and Faye Rogers in the swimming pool on Friday.

“Everyone around me was jumping, screaming and celebrating. I've never experienced emotions like that before,” he said.

“Then standing in front of the crowd with the Scottish flag over my shoulders, just taking it all in, was incredible.

“I'm so proud to have shown that Scottish gymnastics is a force to be reckoned with.

“We're on the rise. We've got a fantastic team, great coaches and a really bright future.

“I've always wanted to inspire younger gymnasts as well, and I hope I've done that today. I'm incredibly proud and incredibly grateful.”

Ward was born in Bury but competes for Scotland through his parents, who are from East Kilbride.

He was almost flawless here, with excellent performances on his favourite pommel horse, vault and uneven bars.

Across the six apparatus, which also included the floor, rings and high bar, he scored 79.650.

Australia’s Jesse Moore was his likeliest rival for the final rotation but made a mistake at the beginning of his floor routine, sending the crowd wild.

After missing out on a medal in the team event on Friday, Ward is now targeting back-to-back golds.

He takes on Olympic champion Rhys McClenaghan in the pommel horse individual final today [MONDAY].

“Rhys has achieved everything I want to achieve in the sport,” Ward added. "He's competed at the Commonwealth Games, European Championships, World Championships and Olympic Games.

“He's a fantastic gymnast, but if I perform my routine to the best of my ability, I'm confident I can challenge.

“It'll be a great competition and I wish him, and everyone else in the final, the very best.”

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