Debutant gymnasts dominated the pommel horse final at the 53rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships on Friday (Oct. 24).

China’s Yanming Hong took the gold medal after scoring 14.600 points, followed by Armenia’s Mamikon Khachatryan who earned silver, and Patrick Hopes of the United States who claimed bronze.

During qualifications, Yanming placed second behind veteran gymnast Nariman Kurbanov of Kazakhstan —who failed to secure a medal in the final.

The 2006-born gymnast said he was thrilled with his gold medal win, especially since this year’s world championships marked his debut appearance.

“I’m very happy and satisfied with today’s result,” said Yanming.

He admitted feeling nervous before the final, but eventually managed to calm himself.

“I was actually a bit nervous, but after practicing and watching the other gymnasts, I was able to balance my emotions.”

The bronze medalist Patrick Hopes also admitted to feeling anxious before his routine, saying, “I was kind of a little bit of stress building up.”

“But, as soon as I got warming up, I started, I realized it’s the same thing.”

Like Yanming, the 53rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Jakarta was also Hopes’ first appearance at a world championships.

So, how did the 23-year-old gymnast feel after earning a medal in his debut competition?

“It’s just an incredible experience to be here today. I’m very grateful for it.”