A result that few would have predicted only a short while ago – Katie Taylor has lost the quarter finals in Rio. Taylor was beaten by Finland’s Mira Potkonen in a split decision. Taylor gave it her all and it was all square going into the fourth and final round but the Finnish champ just edged her out at the last. Taylor will leave Rio without a medal as Potkonen is now guaranteed at least a bronze.
“It’s very disappointing,” an emotional Taylor told RTE following the devastating loss. “It’s been a very, very tough year. A lot of losses this year and it’s very hard to take. I just have to thank everyone for their support.”
A huge crowd gathered to watch the fight at the seafront in Taylor’s hometown, Bray where big screens had been set up. Thousands turned out to support their local hero. Fans quickly took to social media to express their disbelief that the golden girl had been beaten. Messages of support were quickly shared online as people wished Katie well and applauded her efforts.
“There was a fantastic atmosphere in the town with lots of families cheering Katie on,” said Pat Fitzgerald, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council. “She did us proud.”
