Matthew Pinsent’s Attempt to Interview Medalists Falls Short

Matthew Pinsent, a legendary British commentator and four-time Olympic gold medalist, faced a tough moment in Paris when he tried to snag an interview with Team GB‘s latest bronze medal winner, Kimberley Woods.

Pinsent was keen to chat with Woods, who made history as the second British woman to reach the K1 podium, and the newly crowned gold medalist Jessica Fox. However, he hit a snag as officials kept the athletes occupied before the medal ceremony.

After Woods secured her medal, Pinsent humorously remarked, «I am desperately trying. You have to try to get the Olympic champion and our Team GB bronze medallist. They’re all on their way to the medal ceremony. That’s the protocol, as much as I try to interrupt it…»

Despite the hiccup, Pinsent made light of the situation on social media, expressing his delight in seeing Woods on the podium and hoping to catch her after the ceremony.

Once able to speak with Woods, he found her genuinely inspiring as she shared her journey, discussing the challenges she faced, including childhood bullying and her struggles with mental health leading up to the Games.

Woods reflected on her last ten years, saying, «I’m really proud of who I am today, and be able to be open and speak about it and use my platform for good. It just makes everything worth it.»

Next up, Woods will compete in the kayak cross, an event making its Olympic debut in Paris, where she is the reigning champion.