London Olympics: Russian diver wins men’s 3-meter springboard

LONDON — There were, as expected, two divers from China on the medal podium for the men’s 3-meter springboard ceremony.

Just not in the usual spot at the Aquatics Centre.

At the top.

China’s chance at a gold sweep of the diving events at the London Olympics ended when Ilya Zakharov of Russia nailed his final dive, scoring 104.50 points on it to win gold Tuesday night.

An emotionally spent Qin Kai of China took the silver and defending Olympic champion He Chong claimed the bronze. American Troy Dumais, competing in his fourth Olympic Games, placed fifth.

The overall difference between Zakharov and Qin was a mere 14.15 points. It was Russia’s first diving gold medal since 2000.

Dumais, who was the oldest athlete in the 12-diver final at age 32, leaves the Olympic stage for the last time. He said he told USA Diving officials that he would compete in the upcoming nationals.

“I would like to continue to World Championships and retire ... and help the new kids come up,” said Dumais, a bronze medalist here earlier in the synchronized 3-meter springboard event.

“But any day, that could change.”

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