Jessica Fox falls short of expectations

It wasn't the colour Australia or Jessica Fox expected, but the canoe slalom star insists she is pleased to come away from the Rio Olympics with the bronze.

The gold medal favourite is more motivated than ever to win the top prize at the Games after falling short in the K1 final at the Whitewater Stadium in Deodoro.

A big Australian gathering of fans and media turned out for what many expected to be a locked-in gold medal for Australia.

But it was Fox's friend and sometimes paddling partner Maialen Chourraut from Spain who stole the show, winning gold ahead of New Zealand's Luuka Jones in very windy conditions.

"The only one missing now is the gold medal and I'm more motivated than ever," Fox said.

"The lead-up to Rio, there has been a lot more expectation and lot more pressure but that's something that I've taken in my stride.

"I've had expectations on myself and I wanted to win that gold medal.

"To be on the podium again is pretty special because not many women are back up on the podium at the Olympics."

The Spaniard Chourraut was electrifying, ripping the course up with a score of 98.65 to Jones' (101.82) and ahead of Fox (102.49)

Two competitors before Chourraut hit the water, Fox, starting sixth in the field of 10, crossed the line for a 100.49, eclipsing Jones into the gold medal position before copping a two-point penalty for touching a gate, which the Australian admitted was a fair call.

There was no bitterness from Fox who was happy for her friend who she admitted was too good on the day.

"I'm thrilled for her, she really paddled well today. I don't think I rivalled her today, she was incredible and I'm so happy for her and to be on the podium next to her," she said.