Rajiv Ouseph was proud of his Rio 2016 campaign after it came to an end at the quarter-final stage with a 21-12, 21-16 defeat to European Champion Viktor Axelsen of Denmark.
Ouseph couldn’t keep pace with the attacking prowess of the Dane and, despite saving five set points, was comfortably beaten in the opener.
The 29-year-old, who had become the first British badminton player to reach the last eight at the Olympic Games, was far more competitive in the second but ultimately unable to prevent his exit from the men’s singles draw.
“It was tough. I was trying to not let the occasion get to me and focus on the task at hand,” said Ouseph.
“He played well today and his attack was stronger than mine. I was trying to find my way into the game which I only really managed towards the end of the first set. The second was more like how I can play.
“For me it’s great to get to a quarter-final but I thought if I played well enough I would have a chance. On the whole my Olympic tournament has been very good and helped put my experience from London behind me. I can look back at this in a positive way"
Despite hopes of a medal now resting on the shoulders of doubles pairing Chris Langridge and Marcus Ellis, Ouseph was quick to recognise the importance of what the team have achieved in Rio.
“For us the Olympics is everything,” said Ouseph. “It’s the pinnacle and to play well here raises the profile of badminton back home and if I can help with that in any way is great.
“Chris and Marcus have had a brilliant run and hopefully that can continue tomorrow. I’ve been friends with them for as long as I can remember so I’ll be staying to support them.
“A medal would be very important. The run they’ve had is brilliant and it’s generated some great press. To cap it off with a medal would be great but hopefully the way they’ve played and I’ve played has inspired people back home to take up the sport.”