‘Still a hero’ Twitter responds to Katie Taylor’s heartbreaking loss
The public have taken to Twitter in their droves this afternoon following Katie Taylor's defeat to Mira Potkonen in the quarter final of the lightweight division in Rio.
The highly-respected boxer from Bray has lost her place in the Olympics following the shock defeat, but the Irish public are keen for Katie to know she's still a hero in their eyes.
"Gutted for #katietaylor. She is and always will be a true champion really felt for her giving interview," wrote one while another added: "Katie Taylor is an inspiration,in victory and defeat."
Katie Taylor admits it has been a very difficult year as she reflects on losing Olympic crown https://t.co/mrA7PmWJhl
— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) August 15, 2016
Reflecting on the loss, an incredibly tearful Katie attempted to maintain her composure as she fielded questions from reporters in the aftermath of the judges' decision.
"It's very disappointing. It's been a very, very tough year. Suffered a lot of losses this year," she explained.
My god that is heart breaking! @KatieTaylor a gladiator as always!
— Cian Healy (@ProperChurch) August 15, 2016
Explaining that she gave it her 'best shot', Katie went on to thank everyone for their support, and admitted she thought the fight had been going her way.
Just watch #katietaylor interview. Just devastating. Joe Stack spot on. She owes us absolutely nothing!
— Gavan Becton (@GavBecton) August 15, 2016
Despite feeling 'prepared and confident', Katie acknowledges it's hard to maintain those levels, and gratefully accepted the reporter's remarks that following such an incredibly successful career so far she owes her fans nothing.
This post-fight interview is devastating. Really feel for her. So tough. "Those girls shouldn't be beating me." #katietaylor
— Una Mullally (@UnaMullally) August 15, 2016
30-year-old Katie has won a staggering 18 gold medals in championship boxing
