After a disappointing pommel horse routine, John Orozco realized he had no chance at winning a medal in men's all-around Wednesday night – but that didn't stop him from pulling off a spectacular comeback.
"I felt really tired during the [pommel horse] routine," Orozco, 19, told New York's Daily News about his shockingly low 12.566 performance that landed him in last place. "I couldn't feel my arms, everything was tightening up. I was praying to get off, and get some kind of dismount."
Still, the Bronx-born gymnast rallied after a quick cry and pulled himself up to 8th place in only four events – despite knowing his chances at a medal were shot.
"I knew at the end I couldn't make the podium even if I was perfect on all the other routines," he said.
Orozco later reached out to his bevy of supportive fans to address his disheartening Olympic experience.
"I didn't have my dream moment like I hoped for here in London, but I'm greatful (sic) to have the opportunity to compete," Orozco Tweeted Thursday morning.
Meanwhile, teammate Danell Leyva finished the competition with a bronze medal – the first men's all-around title since Paul Hamm's gold in the 2004 Athens Games.
Both athletes plan to return for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
