Heartbreak for Team GB as Canada take men’s curling gold on last stone
Guardian Sport
by Andy Bull at Cortina Curling ArenaFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Team GB suffered a heart-wrenching defeat in the men's curling final as Canada secured gold with a 9-6 victory. The game came down to the last stone of the 10th end, leaving Team GB’s players emotionally drained and questioning their hard-won achievement. Despite earning silver—a notable feat after years of preparation—the team was left grappling with disappointment, with Grant Hardie and Hammy McMillan openly expressing their devastation.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with intense moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Bruce Mouat’s team had fought valiantly throughout the competition, but ultimately fell short in the final end. The loss marked a bitter end to Team GB’s campaign, which included securing four medals overall at these Olympics. However, this particular silver medal felt more like a missed opportunity for gold, especially given the team's previous heartbreak four years ago.
The emotional toll was evident as Hardie and McMillan reflected on their disappointment. Grant Hardie described being heartbroken, emphasizing how long it took to recover from the last loss and how this defeat would likely take even longer to process. His cousin Hammy McMillan shared similar sentiments, highlighting the grueling recovery period from the previous silver medal.
For sports enthusiasts, this story resonates on multiple levels. Curling is a sport that requires precision, strategy, and mental resilience, making every match a high-stakes battle of skill and determination. Team GB’s journey and ultimate heartbreak serve as a reminder of the intense competition in elite sports and the emotional highs and lows that come with it.
This article not only captures the thrilling conclusion to a historic curling final but also sheds light on the personal struggles faced by athletes in pursuit of their goals. For fans of curling, Team GB’s story is a testament to the dedication required to compete at the highest level and the bittersweet nature of competition.
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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/21/2026