After exiting the taekwondo event of Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in the first round, Elizabeth Anyanacho has admitted that the lesson learnt from Tokyo would be handy for Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Anyanacho lost 7-12 to double Olympic medalist and former world champion, Nur Tartar of Turkey in the women’s -67kg while she missed out from the podium after losing the Repechage match to an American.
But the Beirut Open champion believes she has picked up lessons from competing against the best in Tokyo.
“I lost to Turkey 7 – 12. Turkey then lost a golden point to the USA after a 1 – 1 draw. This means I am totally out of fighting for a podium place at the Tokyo Olympics,” she lamented.
“I have cried and I still feel hurt because I wanted to spring a good surprise, despite being 4 years early to my original Paris 2024 Olympics.
“It has been quite a journey. Truly, a long and challenging journey with a rollercoaster of emotions.
“It will be a difficult few weeks and months ahead of me, because I will keep replaying today in my head, and trying to replay all I could have done. But it is OK, because the lessons will help my development. I thank you for your constant love, encouragement and support. Together, we will rise even higher,” she said.