Three-time surfing world champion and viral photo sensation Gabriel Medina had to settle for Olympic bronze in Tahiti on Monday after going into the Games as a widely tipped favourite.
Beaten in the semifinal by Australian Jack Robinson after taking only one wave, the Brazilian was more creative in the bronze match against the surprise of the men’s draw, Alonso Correa, winning with a score of 15.54 to the Peruvian’s 12.43.
Modest surf conditions resulted in a tight duel, but Medina chose his waves better in the final 20 minutes to seal third on the podium.
An AFP photograph of Medina celebrating after kicking out of a wave last week after a ride that earned a record Olympic score became a global sensation, and a defining image of the sport and the Paris Olympics. The gold medal will be decided later Monday.
Source: eNCA
In other news – Simone Biles seeks to extend Olympic gold rush
Simone Biles is targeting two more Olympic golds on Monday to crown a historic Games in Paris as pole vault king Armand Duplantis aims for yet another world record.
Biles, widely considered the greatest gymnast in history, can end all debate if she triumphs in the balance beam and floor exercises at the Bercy Arena. Read more
