More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Maidstone's James Hall feels he has proved he is good enough to compete against the best gymnasts in the world.
The 25-year-old from Pegasus Gymnastics Club finished eighth in the men's all-round final at the Tokyo Olympics on Wednesday.
“It was the uncertainly of not knowing where I was," said Hall. "I haven’t competed at a major since the Worlds in 2019 and I am sure people thought it’s my first one, would I be able to do it.
"Or maybe that is just the voices in my head but today I was able to prove to myself and the people back home that I belong here.
"I am happy with my performance and that is the main thing.
“The one thing I wanted to do today was enjoy it.
"It might not look like I do sometimes with my straight face but I enjoyed every minute. I can’t ask for anything else."
Hall scored a total of 84.598 across the six disciplines, edging ahead of fellow Team GB gymnast Joe Fraser, who was ninth with 84.499.
“I will hold that over him forever now," said Hall. "Joe did amazingly, he made a couple of mistakes but he’s the future of British gymnastics. He is unbelievable.
“He hasn’t got a weak piece, all he needs is consistency. He’s 22, he has time and I am excited to see what he comes up.”
Looking ahead to Paris 2024, Hall admitted: "It is a quick cycle and a quick turnaround. It is going to be ever closer before we know it and I look forward to the next challenge.
“I am not getting any younger, I know I am only 25 but stuff hurts more than it used to. I am going to take it each day as it comes.”
