By The Star Staff
Puerto Rican table tennis player Adriana Díaz González, ranked sixth in the Paris Olympics, fell on Wednesday to North Korean Gyong Song Pyon in seven sets (4-3) in the round of 16 at the Games, ending her participation.
“This is very difficult for me,” Díaz said tearfully in statements to the media.
The 23-year-old from Utuado started strong, winning the first three sets with scores of 11-6, 11-6 and 11-9. However, Pyon recovered and won the next four sets with scores of 11-9, 11-8, 11-6 and 11-7.
“I really started very well,” Díaz said. Everything was going well. I felt like I was playing well. I think that as time went by she got used to my shots.”
Despite the loss, Díaz expressed gratitude and pride for representing Puerto Rico.
“I know that the people in Puerto Rico were watching me and I really wanted them to get up happy,” she said. “I really feel sorry for not being able to continue. I am just proud to be able to represent them.”
Díaz’s father and coach, Bladimir Díaz, praised his daughter’s effort.
“Adriana had a magnificent performance,” he said. “I saw her fighting with her heart. For me, she will always be my hero.”
Gyong Song Pyon, 23, has been a surprise in the tournament despite her low ranking (168) and her limited international exposure. She defeated Hong Kong’s Hoy Kem Doo in the first round and on Tuesday defeated Germany’s Nina Mittelham in another 4-3 battle.
Comments