Olympian Smith auditions for 'X Factor'

Rex Features

Olympic gymnast Louis Smith auditioned for The X Factor in Birmingham last week, reports the Daily Star.

Smith, who won a bronze medal at the Bejing games, admitted that he wanted to apply for the show before but had been too busy with training.

"I was going to do it last year but couldn't because of the Olympics," said the 20-year-old.

"But now I've got some spare time I thought I'd give it a go. It's going to be pretty daunting singing in front of Simon Cowell... This is taking me out of my comfort zone."

When asked whether he would prefer to win the reality show or Olympic gold, he answered: "Both!"