Asil crowned lord of the rings

ADEM Asil claimed Turkey's second ever World Championship gold with a superb display in Saturday’s rings showpiece.

Asil's score of 14.933 was enough for him to upgrade the European silver he won earlier this year and hold off competition from Zou Jingyuan and Courtney Tulloch.

The three medallists led the way in qualifying, each finishing on 14.666, with Asil the third of the trio due to a lower execution score.

But he turned the tables when it mattered, leaving Zou to settle for silver and Tulloch bronze - which secured the hosts a record-equalling fifth medal at a single World Championships.

“I can’t explain my emotions," he said. "I’m so happy because my first world medal is a gold. It is a second world championship gold for Turkey, so I am very happy.

“I just can’t explain how I feel. I am over the moon. I worked very hard and finally here I am a world champion. I finally made it, I can’t believe it.

“It was our hope to win gold, but for Turkish gymnastics it’s going to be awesome. And at the next competition we are going to gain more medals, I hope.

“I can do more difficulty, I think. I can see the other gymnasts are so strong, so I will have to improve.”

Zou’s silver was his second medal of the week following team gold on Wednesday and he hopes to challenge for more on this apparatus in the years to come.

“I think I am getting better and better after each competition,” he said. “This is my first world medal on rings. 

“I am quite happy with my performance today, I did what I should have done. Of course, I did not stick my dismount but I was pleased with myself.

“Even when I was doing the skill that is named after me, I did not feel the pressure.” 

Tulloch, who saw teammate Giarnni Regini-Moran win floor gold earlier in the day, continued the host nation’s memorable week and said: “I’ve done so many World Championships and made the final but I haven’t quite got the medal.

“To finally come away with a bronze on my favourite event, I’m just so happy. 

“I’m just so proud to get my first rings world medal. Last year I was eighth in the final so I was determined to get at least a bronze.” 

The World Gymnastics Championships Liverpool 2022 will be one of the largest international sporting events ever to be held in the city. Over 500 gymnasts from more than 70 countries will compete at the M&S Bank Arena from 29 October to 6 November 2022. Tickets are available at www.2022worldgymnastics.com/tickets.