Diehm's early career saw her overcoming significant challenges. In 2018, she underwent her fourth knee reconstruction surgery. Despite this, she continued to compete and achieve notable successes. She won the 2019 Vans BMX Pro Cup World Championship and became a two-time Oceania champion.

In 2019, Diehm made history by becoming the first female rider to win gold at the Oceania BMX Freestyle Championships in Melbourne. She also secured the title of four-time national champion, showcasing her dominance in the sport.

Olympic and World Championship Performances

Diehm's Olympic debut came at Tokyo 2020, where she finished fifth in the inaugural BMX freestyle event with a score of 86.00. Her performance at the World Championships has been commendable as well. In 2019, she ranked sixth in Chengdu, China, with a score of 79.60.

However, her performance dipped in 2023 when she finished 21st in Glasgow, Great Britain, with a score of 47.80. Despite this setback, Diehm remains a formidable competitor in the sport.

Recent Competitions and Rankings

In 2024, Diehm participated in the Women's Park Final at La Concorde 2 on 31 July. Competing against athletes from countries like Colombia, USA, France, Chile, China, and Czech Republic, she secured a bronze medal.

Her recent World Cup rankings reflect consistent performances. She ranked 11th in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Her best achievement in the World Cup came in 2024 when she finished fifth in one of the events.

Training and Philosophy

Diehm trains five days a week, incorporating gym sessions, conditioning sets, on-bike conditioning, skill acquisition, pre-habituation, and daily recovery into her routine. Her dedication to training is evident in her performances and resilience.

She describes BMX freestyle as being akin to gymnastics on a bike in the air. This philosophy underscores the precision and skill required for the sport.

Personal Life and Influences

Diehm resides in Gladstone, Queensland, with her partner Kirby. Her family has been a significant influence on her career. She credits Australian BMX racer Caroline Buchanan for encouraging her to continue after contemplating retirement due to injuries and financial struggles.

Buchanan's support led Diehm to pursue BMX freestyle at the Olympic Games, changing her decision to quit the sport.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Diehm aims to continue competing at high levels and hopes to secure more titles and accolades. Her journey is a testament to perseverance and dedication in sports.

Natalya Diehm's story is one of resilience and passion for BMX freestyle cycling. As she continues to compete and inspire others, her legacy in the sport is set to grow even further.