English gymnast Gabriel Langton was rushed to the hospital Friday after suffering a terrifying fall during the men’s team competition at the Commonwealth Games.
The 18-year-old was performing his routine on the high bar when he missed a grab and plunged headfirst onto the mat, appearing to land on his head and neck.
Langton remained on the floor as medical personnel immediately rushed to his side. He was later placed in a neck brace and carried out of the arena on a stretcher.
Team officials said Langton was conscious, moving and able to speak with doctors before being transported to the hospital for further evaluation.
“We are grateful to the medical teams who responded immediately to provide assistance,” an England team spokesperson said.
“Gabriel has been taken to hospital, and we will share more information when it is available.”
The disturbing accident brought the competition to a temporary halt and left Langton’s teammates visibly shaken. However, the English squad eventually regrouped and went on to win the silver medal.
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Teammate Luke Whitehouse said the gymnasts had to fight through the emotional impact of what they had just witnessed.
“It was really tough,” Whitehouse said. “We just had to reset, try to put it to one side mentally and focus on the job we had to do. I think everyone should be proud of the way we carried on after Gabe’s fall.”
Whitehouse said the team agreed to take another warm-up before returning to competition.
“There was a delay after the first warm-up, but we regrouped,” he said. “The coaches were fantastic, and the boys who had to go up on high bar were incredible. The togetherness of the team really showed, and I couldn’t be prouder of everyone.”
England ultimately finished second behind Canada, while Australia narrowly defeated Scotland to claim the bronze medal.
Langton is already considered one of England’s most promising young gymnasts. According to his Instagram biography, he is a five-time European Championships medalist and won the British under-18 all-around title in 2024.