DIVING HEARTBREAK
‘I didn’t want to be alive’ – Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix breaks down in emotional interview after Olympics 2024 final
The teenager opened up about her struggles in recent years in a brave interview
ANDREA SPENDOLINI-SIRIEIX gave an emotional interview recalling her incredible journey to the Olympics after missing out on a medal today.
Spendolini-Sirieix, who is the daughter of First Dates star Fred Sirieix, narrowly missed out on a second podium finish after ending the Women's 10m Platform event in sixth place.
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The 19-year-old secured a bronze medal last week in the Women's Synchronised 10m Platform event alongside Lois Toulson.
But after struggling to repeat her success in the Paris Aquatics Centre a second time, she broke down in tears recalling her battle to get to the top this summer.
Speaking to the BBC, she said: "Obviously it wasn't the result that I wanted, but I'm not even upset with the competition.
"The girls dove amazing, they dove better than me today and It's because they work really hard. As you said, it wasn't meant to be.
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"Genuinely, I'm not trying to be macho or anything, I am not upset with my performance.
"Three years ago I didn't even want to be alive and so today I am just happy that I'm alive, I'm breathing and I've got my family here to support me."
She added: "My mum was like 'just keep smiling, we're proud of you and we're here to see you'.
"And at the end of the day that's all I can ask for."
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Discussing her previous medal and her achievements in the Olympics already this summer, she added: "I am just so happy to be here, to be at the Olympic games.
"It's been a really long year and it doesn't take away from my accomplishments this year and just missing out on one medal doesn't change who I am."
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Spendolini-Sirieix's brave interview came following a touching moment when she went to share a second with her mother in the crowd watching on.
The teenager's supportive father was watching on as she etched her name in Team GB folklore.
And speaking to the BBC, TV star dad Fred said: "What I love about my daughter [Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix] is her positivity.
"Today she didn't make it to the podium, tonight she is going to have a quiet night, and tomorrow she is back to being happy, smiley Andrea.
"Just enjoying life, enjoying Paris, and enjoying the moment.
"That is Andrea. And that is beautiful because it is about balance. It is about knowing who you are and making the most of life, and that is what she is doing. So I am very happy for her.
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"She had already shared an incredible moment with dad, Fred, last week when she earned herself an Olympic bronze.
And he even had an opportunity to interview her after she earned her medal as one of the presenters on the BBC's coverage of the Olympics.
If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123.
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