Ward wins all-around gold

By Isla Hartley · Sports Reporter · July 26, 2026

By Isla Hartley — 26 July 2026 — 3 min read

Ward wins all-around gold

Reuben Ward, representing Scotland, achieved an individual all-around gold medal in gymnastics at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. This victory marks a historical moment as Ward became the first Scotsman to win this coveted title. He led for much of the event, ultimately holding off Canada’s Felix Dolci by a narrow margin of 0.2 points.

Ward’s performance included strong showings on the pommel horse, vault, and uneven bars. Across the six apparatus, which also featured the floor, rings, and high bar, he accumulated a score of 79.650. His win contributed to Scotland’s third gold medal of the Games, following successes by Duncan Scott and Faye Rogers in swimming.

Ward, who was born in Bury but competes for Scotland through his parents from East Kilbride, expressed his pride in demonstrating the strength of Scottish gymnastics. He hopes his achievement will inspire younger gymnasts.

Langton’s return to the arena

The event also saw the return of English gymnast Gabriel Langton to the Glasgow International Arena. Langton had experienced a significant fall from the high bars 36 hours prior, landing on his neck. He spent 24 hours in hospital and sustained bruises.

Despite his recent injury, Langton was present to support his teammates. He cheered for English gymnasts Luke Whitehouse and Adam Tobin, who finished seventh and fifth, respectively. When it became apparent they would not win, he then encouraged Reuben Ward.

Ward recalled the team’s physiotherapists telling him to “Do it for Gabe” after Langton’s fall. Ward had been among those who were emotional on the night of the incident. He mentioned seeing Langton return to the Leonardo hotel, where Team England was staying, and expressed his relief that Langton was well.

Teammates’ reactions and future competition

Adam Tobin confirmed hearing Langton’s encouragement during the competition, noting that Langton was shouting, “Let’s go!” and “Keep it clean.” Tobin highlighted Langton’s resilience, stating that despite the traumatic experience, Langton was there to support both Team England and Team Scotland.

Tobin also commended England’s coaches for maintaining calm during the situation. He described the initial shock among the team and the coaches’ efforts to keep them focused. The experience transformed their motivation, making it “more than a medal” and about doing it for Gabe.

Luke Whitehouse, who was a favourite for gold but finished seventh after three falls, expressed disappointment but also relief regarding Langton’s condition. Whitehouse mentioned that knowing Langton was okay, with no serious injuries beyond bruising, provided perspective. He was proud to welcome Langton back to the hotel and present him with his medal.

The competition also saw Singapore’s Jovi Loh sustain an injury after a dismount on the bars. Ward is now targeting back-to-back golds and is set to compete against Olympic champion Rhys McClenaghan in the pommel horse individual final.

Ward acknowledged McClenaghan’s achievements and expressed confidence in his own ability to challenge if he performs his routine optimally. He wished McClenaghan and other finalists the best in the upcoming competition.

Source: theguardian.com

Isla Hartley

Sports Reporter

Isla Hartley is a Sports Reporter at NewsUK. She covered the British summer of sport from Wimbledon to the Test grounds. She focuses on tennis, cricket and athletics and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. She holds a degree in Sports Studies from the University of Stirling and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Glasgow, she runs half-marathons and follows Scottish athletics. “The overlooked athlete usually has the better story.”