TOM PIDCOCK was in tears live on TV following his jaw-dropping gold glory – after being booed by French fans.
The world mountain-biking champion somehow retained his Olympic crown despite a puncture.
But some home spectators were unhappy Pidcock‘s remarkable feat was based on overhauling French rider Victor Koretzky.
The Leeds hero had trailed Koretzky by 39 seconds at one stage before catching him on the final lap.
And afterwards the emotional Brit told the BBC it was a “shame” fans had taken their disappointment out on him.
He added he was “keeping my glasses on for a reason” during the interview.
Pidcock said: “I knew that Victor was going to be fast in the last lap even if I couldn’t get rid of him.
“I knew it was going to be a big fight, and he left a gap and I had to take it. That’s racing.
“I know people might view it differently but sport is about not giving up. It is a shame that the French were booing me.”
Pidcock also explained the drama following his third-lap puncture.
A puncture for Pidcock!
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 29, 2024
He was in first place, but now he has to work his way back through the field…#BBCOlympics #Olympics #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/Z4LOTBa93N
He said: “You are all used to things going well so even my mechanic wasn’t ready for it.
He did a super fast change in the end, my bike was perfect apart from my mistake of puncturing.
“I can’t thank everyone enough. From being on tour and then Covid too, everyone was around me and we trained perfectly for this.”
He explained how celebrations will be extra special – because his family are in Paris and it will be a treat to finally meet up with them them!
Pidcock said: “It is super nice that they are all here.
“I haven’t actually seen anyone yet apart from my girlfriend. I need to go and find them.”
He then posed with his gold medal alongside partner Bethan Zajac – who herself was sobbing when he went over to see her.
