Rio 2016 Olympics: disqualified swimmer gets second chance after leaving the pool in tears

A 20-year-old Spanish swimmer has just won himself a whole new legion of fans after a rollercoaster qualifying heat at the Rio Olympics.

Miguel Duran Navia dived in too early in his preliminary heat of the 400-metre freestyle, triggering an automatic disqualification.

He slapped the water and hung his head on the lane line, realising he was out of Saturday’s heats.

“Well that’s the worst thing that could happen,” said the commentator.

Duran appeared to be crying as he picked up his clothing and walked off the deck to a standing ovation as fans applauded in sympathy.

But just as the other swimmers were preparing to return to their blocks, a huge cheer erupted from the crowd as the Olympians looked around, confused.

Incredibly, and much to the disbelief of the commentators, Duran reappeared and took his position on the starting block, having been given a reprieve.

It appeared as if the referee had ruled the fall into the water was not be Duran’s fault and so he was allowed to continue.

He finished seventh in his heat, which meant he didn’t qualify, but he certainly won the hearts of many in the aquatics centre, and online.

Olympic moment in 400 free: Miguel Duran Navia of Spain false starts, thinks he's out, leaves in tears. Judges bring him back. Fans roar

— Pat Forde (@YahooForde) August 6, 2016

I felt really bad for Miguel Duran Navia today. That false start was so heartbreaking.

— ✨Andrea✨ (@andrealoya_) August 7, 2016

Shout out to #MiguelDuran, I'm glad you got to swim and have your moment. Never be afraid to show your emotion. #Rio2016

— Aaron Devon Hill (@aarondevonhill) August 7, 2016

Imagine preparing for 4 yrs & then when you're on the blocks, fall in & disqualified

Miguel Duran Navia #ESP just discovered that feeling

— Shane McInnes (@shanemcinnes) August 6, 2016

Especially for those who view athletes as infallible, Duran’s experience elicited huge outpourings of sympathy as people identified with his situation.

For that brief moment in the Aquatics Centre, Duran became the everyman’s hero.

Amazing scenes at the pool. Spaniard Miguel Duran Navia falls in, DQed, devastated, ushered out… then ushered back! Crowd goes wild.

— Phil Lutton (@phillutton78) August 6, 2016