The 29-year-old had been seeking to join the US great Michael Phelps as only the second man to win three successive Olympic golds in the same discipline but trailed Italy's Nicolò Martinenghi by just 0.2 seconds in the 100m men's breaststroke.
Peaty, who had considered retiring in recent years following what he has described as a breakdown, said: "I gave my absolute all there.
"It's not about the end goal, it's all about the process. It doesn't matter what the scoreboard says, I'm already a winner. I'm not crying because I came second, I'm crying because of the journey."
Day two of the Games was always likely to be difficult for Team GB but Kimberley Woods, 28, did surpass expectations to snatch a bronze in the women's K1 canoe slalom final, while Andy Murray further delayed his retirement from the tennis court with a thrilling 2-6, 7-6 (5), 11-9 doubles comeback with Dan Evans.
The pair danced with delight at Roland Garros after pipping Japan's Kei Nishikori and Taro Daniel in the last set while Woods, who has spoken in the past of years of bullying and depression, told of her joy.
She said: "I can't believe how long my journey's been. I've been paddling for 20 years now and finally have a medal around my neck. I'm hoping to be going for another 10 but we'll see how my body handles up.
Esta historia es de la edición July 29, 2024 de The Guardian.
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