First black woman to win gold in Olympic wrestling had sweetest post-win interview wrapped in US flag

U.S. wrestler Tamyra Mensah-Stock made history after being the first black woman to win gold, and second American overall, after a 4-1 defeat in the women’s 68-kilogram freestyle wrestling final in the Olympics.

Mensah-Stock dominated Tuesday’s final at Makuhari Messe Hall outside Tokyo. Her overwhelming emotion poured out into her inspiring post-match interview. “I’m feeling very happy and I keep trying not to cry, but it keeps happening”, she said while wrapped in a U.S. flag. “I just want to go into a dark room and cry, but I’m crying from joy.”

Mensah-Stock signalled a heart-shaped gesture after her well-deserved win. She then hugged her coaches and held the flag high above her head. “I’m like, ‘Oh my gosh, look at us representing. It’s so freaking awesome. You’re making history, I’m making history. We’re making history. So it meant a lot”, she said.

“These young women are going to see themselves in a number of ways and they’re going to look up there and go, I can do that”, she said. “I can see myself.”

People took to Twitter to express their admiration and support for her. One user called the champion “an infectious beam of positivity” who needs to be “protected at all costs.”

Another said, “What a beautiful, amazing young woman! Gotta love someone who proudly expresses her love of our great country! We need more of this!!!”

While a third tweeted: “Her honesty, joy, excitement, honesty, and power of self-worth just oozes — great example for human kind. Wonderful on the mat and in life. Thank you. We’ve got your back!” 

Reference: Indy 100: Becca Monaghan