Left: Canada's midfielder Diana Matheson shoots past France's Eugenie Le Sommer, not pictured, during the women's football match for bronze, Aug. 9, 2012. Right: Silver medalist Victoria Komova of Russia reacts after the women's individual all-around gymnastics final, Aug. 2, 2012.
Best Moment:
Seeing Canada’s Diana Matheson score the winning goal in the 90th minute of the women’s football bronze medal match against France. As a Canadian, I’m undeniably biased, but who isn’t when it comes to choosing their favorite Olympic moment? And few can claim that the Canadian team didn’t deserve a happy ending. After a disappointing (and controversial) loss to the US in the semi-finals, the disheartened Canadians managed to rally and defeat France 1-0. The medal marks not only the first for the women’s football team, but also the first Canadian team medal at the Summer Olympics since 1936.
Worst Moment:
Seeing countless athletes profusely apologizing to their countries, often in tears, for failing to win a gold medal. Contrasted with those who were genuinely ecstatic to win a medal — any medal — the sight of athletes crushed by remarkable performances that earned them second or third place, seriously disturbed me. Disappointment is understandable and I realize that winning is the goal, but it’s heart-breaking to hear an Olympian express genuine shame at not being the absolute best in the world.