Rhys McClenaghan misses World Gymnastics final in Rotterdam

Olympic pommel horse champion Rhys McClenaghan failed to qualify for the final at the 2026 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Rotterdam. The 27-year-old Irish gymnast earned a score of 14.400 during the qualifying round, placing him 10th overall and leaving him as the second reserve for the final.

This result marks a continued challenge in McClenaghan’s comeback following a shoulder operation that sidelined him for much of 2025. His qualifying score was significantly lower than his 15.533 score from the 2024 Olympics. Following the competition, McClenaghan expressed his disappointment on social media, stating he needs to reach a level where his performance is “undeniable” and leaves no room for subjectivity in judging.