Aussie medallist in tears after ‘really tough year’

Lakeisha Patterson struggled to hide her emotions after claiming a silver medal in the pool for Australia in Paris.
The 25-year-old won gold at Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 but fell just shy of doing the same on day one of these Paralympic Games.
Patterson led the field in her S9 400m freestyle race until the final lap when she was overtaken by Hungary’s Zsofia Konkoly.
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But the fact Patterson made it to Paris at all is a testament to her determination.
“I knew Sophia was always going to be a challenger, that’s what she did in Tokyo as well,” Patterson told Nine after winning silver.
“I was hoping to try give myself a pretty big lead to be able to come back, but that’s sport, nothing is ever guaranteed.
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Lakeisha Patterson speaks to Nine after winning silver. Nine
“I know a lot of people probably had a lot of expectations on me tonight to bring home that gold.
“I gave it everything I could and I’m really proud of myself for that performance.
“I know you see the tears, but… honestly it’s been a really tough year. I had an injury at the start of the year on my neck.
“I don’t like to make excuses ever, but this year has been one of the most physical and mentally challenging years… to be able to be here, to be able to breathe for eight laps swimming is a pretty big deal.
“This is my main event, this is what I wanted to come out here and do. I’m certainly not done yet, there is more in the tank.
“I gave it everything I had today and that was the best result I could do on the day.”
Patterson still has the 200 individual medley and the 100m freestyle to contest in Paris.
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