'I can beat the best in the world' - Reidpublished at 18:33 British Summer Time 3 August 2022
Women's -78kg final
BBC Sport
English judoka Emma Reid was talking to BBC Sport after winning gold:
"I just it was going to be a scrap because Natalie is such a good fighter, but I knew that I had it in me. I just knew that I was going to enjoy it and I'm glad I won."
What was it like to have a narrow lead to defend?
"You think it's good but it's horrible - you are looking at the clock, I was so glad I had it in the bag and could control it from there. I was just looking over, glancing over to see what I can do what she does."
On coming back after an elbow injury:
"It was before lockdown and I got (back) into it, and then lockdown happened and it gave the injury a chance to heal properly without rushing back in."
On winning in front of a home crowd:
"People don't get to see you often at all, and when you come out and everyone's cheering you it just gives you that boost to win."
Next stop Paris?
"It was good having to experience it, it makes me want to try for the Olympics a lot more. I've got the belief I can beat the best in the world so it's going to be good."