Olympic champions Daniel Wiffen and Rhys McClenaghan struggled on Monday at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, both missing the podium in their signature events. McClenaghan finished sixth in the pommel horse final, while Wiffen placed fourth in the 800m freestyle.

McClenaghan, returning from shoulder surgery that sidelined him all of 2025, called his performance a "stepping stone" toward retaining Olympic gold at LA 2028. Wiffen, who battled appendicitis in 2025, was more self-critical, admitting he felt "rusty" and outclassed by a strong Australian trio.

Both athletes are using 2026 to rebuild after injury-disrupted seasons following their Paris 2024 triumphs. McClenaghan plans to return to gym work ahead of Europeans in August and Worlds in October. Wiffen aims to bounce back in Wednesday's 1500m final, where he won silver four years ago, hoping a medal will boost confidence before the Europeans.