Australian diver Melissa Wu was a favourite going into the Commonwealth Games after claiming a silver medal in Dehli four years ago, but her hopes for victory were dashed this morning after completing a shocking opening dive when she slipped on the platform.
“My body just sort of reacted. I had no idea where I was. The dive just felt completely different to normal and I just didn’t know where I was,” Wu said after the dive. “It was a bit of a shock really. My foot slipped on the platform and I didn’t get into my rotation properly and I just got really lost and ended out coming out (early).”
Fairfax reports, the 22-year-old was attempting a forward 3 1/2 somersault when she appeared to pull out of the dive and speared feet first into the water. It was ruled a no-dive and she was awarded no points.
“Luckily I didn’t hurt myself too badly or anything. I guess I was just really shocked as it doesn’t happen a lot,” she said. “I’ve slipped on the platform once before quite a few years ago and I hurt myself a lot worse that time so I’m just glad I didn’t do anything too bad injury-wise and I was able to keep diving.”
Wu went on to complete the remaining four dives but her earlier slip had rattled her nerves. She eventually finished in 11th place out of a field of 12, and also finished last in the synchronised 10m platform with partner Rachel Bugg.
