No team medal but Joe Fraser proud of his Olympic journey

The 25-year-old was also part of the squad which narrowly missed out on the podium in Tokyo three years ago. Yet despite the disappointment, former Sandwell College student Fraser took pride in even being in Paris having battled back from injury troubles which at one point last year put his future in the sport in doubt.

“I have definitely had moments over the last 12 months when I did not think I would make it back, so even standing here today, at my second Olympics, I am proud of that,” said Fraser, who underwent foot and shoulder surgery at the start of 2023 and did not compete all year.

“Regardless of how I feel about coming fourth, I will reflect on that and be very proud of myself for the journey I have been on.

“I definitely would not have been able to do it without these guys checking in when I was learning how to crawl for the first time, checking in and wishing me well, helping me to get back as quickly as possible.

“I am really grateful I have such an amazing support network, from my team-mates to my parents to my coach. I am just glad to be back.

An excellent pommel horse routine from Max Whitlock got GB, who qualified for the final with the third best score, off to a flying start.

But despite delivering solid routines, they were unable to match the spectacular showings of their American rivals, who were backed by the vast majority of the crowd.

In a dramatic finish which saw Japan snatch gold from China on the final rotation, GB were unable to overhaul the US, finishing nearly two points behind.

“We always knew it was going to be a tight battle today,” said Fraser, who will now turn attention to Wednesday’s all-around final. “There were a few countries which could have quite easily finished among the medals. For us it is disappointing but we have a few finals to look forward to and I think we will work on our errors and see what we can achieve.”