2008 Gold Medallist diver Matthew Mitcham cried beside the London Olympic pool tonight as he narrowly missed getting to the final of his 10m platform event – but later broke into his famous smile again as he thanked his thousands of fans who witnessed his latest incredible dives.

He’d started the day’s dives well but high scores eluded him later on as his competitors warmed up. He looked upset as the high-pressure event progressed, and was later red-eyed as he found out he’d gotten only a couple of points away from qualifying for tomorrow morning’s medal-decider.

Since his triumph in Beijing four years ago, the 24-year-old openly gay athlete had been plagued by injury as he battled to come back to the Games this year. In the days leading up to his diving competition he tried to set expectations low, but our Aussie medal hopes were raised after a solid effort this morning in the pool.

Finishing in 13th place, there’s a very slim chance Mitcham will still dive tomorrow as he’s the reserve in the rare case one of the top 12 divers suddenly drops out before the final.

Matthew Mitcham’s many fans are now tweeting their support… here’s just a few.

The whole country is SO proud of you @matthew_mitcham – you did a great job! xx

— DJ Dan Murphy (@DJDanMurphy) August 11, 2012

Nation-wide group hug for @matthew_mitcham. Still a goddamned hero.

— Benjamin Law (@mrbenjaminlaw) August 11, 2012

RT @minus18youth: What an inspiration you are to all us gay youth, @matthew_mitcham!

— Generation Next (@GNJOY949) August 11, 2012

I normally love that @matthew_mitchamis out but not on this occasion

— Mitzi Macintosh (@Mitzi_Macintosh) August 11, 2012

We love you @matthew_mitcham. We are so lucky to have you represent us, and I don’t just mean Australia. xx

— Brendan Maclean (@macleanbrendan) August 11, 2012

Well done in London, Matty – we’re still so proud of you!