Spendolini-Sirieix’s feat of reaching Paris Olympic finals comes after she considered quitting earlier in 2022 because of a “fear of diving”.
A mental block, described as being similar to the ‘twisties’ suffered by American gymnast Simone Biles, was difficult to overcome but she rediscovered her love for the sport.
After Tuesday’s competition, Spendolini-Sirieix spoke of the pride she felt at her performances in Paris and touched on the mental struggles she has faced.
“It wasn’t meant to be,” Spendolini-Sirieix said.
“Three years ago I didn’t even want to be alive, so today I’m just happy that I am alive, I’m breathing and I’ve got my family to support me.”
Since finishing seventh in the Tokyo Olympics final three years ago as a 16-year-old, Spendolini-Sirieix has developed into a genuine Olympic force in the 10m platform.
Not since Beatrice Armstrong claimed silver in 1920 had a British woman won a medal in the individual event – and despite the valiant endeavour of Spendolini-Sirieix the wait goes on.
The teenager was aiming to land Team GB’s first Olympic medal in a women’s individual diving competition since Elizabeth Ferris won bronze in the 3m springboard in 1960.
Claiming two golds at both the Commonwealth Games and European Championships in 2022 mark arguably the biggest successes of the teenager’s career so far.
She also had podium finishes – including a mixed team event gold – at the World Championships that were held in Doha in February this year.
Adding individual gold in the 10m platform at Paris 2024 was the next target.
However, overhauling the Chinese pair of Chen and Quan was always going to be a considerable task.