Team GB star praised for showing an ‘elite mentality’ in honest interview after finishing eighth in the BMX final at the Paris Olympics

Team GB’s Beth Shriever was praised for her ‘mature’ interview after finishing eighth in the BMX final at the Olympics.

Shriever had been tipped for gold but still remained upbeat despite missing out on glory.

The 25-year-old praised the atmosphere in France and insisted that she has enjoyed her time at the Games.

Shriever told BBC Sport: ‘I’ve loved every single second being here. 

‘Sometimes it can’t always go to plan, that’s just life. I gave my all into this. I’m happy, I’m healthy, I’ve got my friends and family here and that’s all that matters.

Although she missed out on gold, Shriever insisted that she has enjoyed her time at the Games

Asked about the atmosphere, Shriever said: ‘It’s insane. With the men going 1, 2 and 3, I’ve never experienced anything like it. Insane. I’ve had a great time. It is what is.’

‘I was just a little bit late out the start. Every other time it’s been alright. I think the other girls got flying so they shot me down, but it’s all good. I’m happy.’

Saya Sakakibara of Australia was left tearful after she secured the gold medal 

Despite being the second fastest qualifier, Shriever was unable to match the gold that she achieved in Tokyo in 2021.

Saya Sakakibara of Australia won gold in France, with Manon Veenstra of the Netherlands securing silver. 

Meanwhile, Switzerland’s Zoe Claessens won bronze. 

Shriever’s Great Britain team-mate Kye Whyte had left the track on a stretcher after crashing during the men’s semi-final.