Adam Rippon wins hearts as he loses out on second Winter Olympic medal

17th February 2018

The out figure skater failed to reach the podium in his final event…

Sadly, Adam Rippon’s Winter Olympics dreams haven’t ended in the way that he wanted as in his final event he finished 10th.

Following the event, when asked if he would retire from the sport, Rippon said: “I think at first I need a five-minute break and a really stiff drink and then maybe, like a day or two off the ice, at least to dry out my costumes, and then we’ll see.”

But even though Rippon may be slightly disappointed, it was clear from Twitter that many people were full of pride for the athlete.

I don't fully understand figure skating judging so I can't really speculate on the scoring but @Adaripp's performance was truly mesmerizing. You're #1 in our hearts, Adam! So proud of you and inspired by you.

— Gus Kenworthy (@guskenworthy) February 17, 2018

.@Adaripp your infectious spirit and positive attitude have been an inspiration- Pennsylvania is proud of you! #Olympics

— Senator Bob Casey (@SenBobCasey) February 17, 2018

I am so proud. @Adaripp was injured in a boot this time last year. He came out tonight and showed everyone hard work, determination and a touch of fabulosity will get you far. I love you so much and I'm so amazed by you.

— Ashley Wagner (@AshWagner2010) February 17, 2018

Adam Rippon will not medal, but it's safe to say he's the winner of the Olympics

— Logan Rhoades (@LoganRhoades) February 17, 2018

.@Adaripp & @guskenworthy are the Olympic heroes gay boys everywhere have been waiting for. THANK YOU both for using the platform you had during the games and for standing up for us and standing so fiercely against that bigot. So proud.

— Dan Savage (@fakedansavage) February 17, 2018

Yo. @Adaripp deserved gold. This is bullshit. It was an absolutely memorizing performance, and I couldn't be prouder of the man sent to represent our country. Not to mention the absolute icon he is in his/my community. #Olympics2018 #usgay #nothisisntabiasedopinion

— Mitten (@P_ElliotR) February 17, 2018

The 28-year-old figure skater became the first openly gay athlete from Team USA to qualify for the games in Pyeongchang, South Korea, earning a bronze medal in the men’s individual with a stunning performance to Coldplay’s O.

His relationship with fellow out athlete Gus Kensworthy also made headlines this week when they shared a kiss in defiance of Mike Pence – and the internet went wild.

And during an interview with NBC, following a men’s short performance, Rippon was asked why he was skating so well. His response may go on to be iconic, as he quipped: “I can’t explain witchcraft.”