Twelve years ago, the 21‑year‑old Reuben Ward watched Dan Keating win gymnastics gold for Scotland in Glasgow and dreamed of competing for his country. That dream became reality when he was announced as the all‑around champion at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, earning Scotland its third gold on day three.

Ward, whose parents Brendan and Lisa moved from East Kilbride to Bury before he was born, described the moment as a full‑circle celebration. "Glasgow and East Kilbride have been(boolean) second homes," he said, adding that the victory felt “incredibly special.”

During the competition, Ward began seventh after the floor but surged to the lead with a strong pommel horse routine, then maintained his advantage on rings and parallel bars. A flawless vault, adding three twists, and a decisive horizontal bar finish kept him ahead of rivals, while a 0.100 appeal on the parallel bars sealed the win.

After the medal ceremony, Ward reflected on the emotional impact, saying he “kept me awake a little bit” imagining the gold. He plans to celebrate with his Scottish teammates and family, hoping to enjoy Glasgow before the next challenge.