Joe Fraser defeats 'demons' to claim brilliant world gymnastics bronze
The Midlands hero recovered from disappointment earlier in the week to deliver an excellent performance.
Gymnastics star Joe Fraser described overcoming “demons” in order to win a brilliant world championship bronze.
The two-time Olympian became just the third British male to claim a medal in the individual all-around competition with a superb performance in Rotterdam.
It came just two days after the former Sandwell College student had described feeling an “overwhelming sense of guilt” after mistakes led to Great Britain missing out on a medal in the team competition and early qualification for LA 2028.
Fraser, a former world champion on the parallel bars, rebounded in spectacular fashion by submitting one of the best displays of his career.
The 27-year-old said: “It was unreal. After the team competition, it has really been an emotional rollercoaster. I have really had to battle some demons to get back out there.
“But I really felt the passion from the team. This is for all of us. We are all a part of it. It is very special.”
Fraser finished with a total score of 83.531 after the six disciplines to secure bronze behind champion Daiki Hashimoto, who claimed his fourth successive all-around gold, with China's Haonan Yang taking silver.
The Midlands ace celebrated his medal with a thumb-sucking gesture in a nod to his fiancee, who is due to give birth next month.
He continued: “I felt so much more relaxed today. I don’t know whether that is because I care so much for the team.
“I just need to figure out how to be my best self every time I go out on the competition floor.
“There are so many people who want the best for us and strive to make us our best. I want the world to know that it is more than just the five or six guys out there.
“I want them to know I am with them regardless. I wanted people to realise it hurts so much because I care so much.”
Fraser added: “When I do get home I am very excited to become a dad and just figure out life and what my next chapter looks like.
“I will do absolutely everything, as I do with gymnastics, to become the best father I can.”
Comment Guidelines
Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.